Many consumers have become overwhelmed with the many types of Internet and other communications technologies available. Questions about the hardware needed, the benefits of the technology and the service providers available may prevent customers from enjoying the benefits of broadband Internet. But concerns about whether your residence or business has traditional phone jacks available should not restrict your move to broadband service.
What Is Broadband Internet?
Broadband Internet is another term for high-speed Internet, as distinct from traditional, dial-up modem Internet service. Although broadband is faster than dial-up Internet, broadband speeds vary greatly, depending upon the type of service, the service provider and the area. Broadband Internet uses digital data transmission. No matter what is being downloaded or uploaded (text, pictures, audio or video), it is transmitted as data bits.
Types of Broadband Internet
There are many types of broadband Internet available, and the types of hardware needed are different for each. The most commonly used types of broadband Internet are digital subscriber lines (DSL), satellite Internet, cable modems, fiber-optic cables and broadband Internet transmitted over power lines.
Phone Service and Broadband
Broadband Internet service does not require a traditional phone jack. Depending upon the type of service you select, however, it may require the presence of telephone lines. DSL broadband service transmits data over existing copper telephone wires. Thus, although your service provider will install a new "jack" specifically for your DSL service, you will not be able to use DSL broadband unless your home or business is connected to telephone wires.
Dial-Up Internet
Traditional dial-up Internet, as opposed to broadband Internet, does require a telephone jack, and an active telephone line, to function. This mode of Internet connection, however, will be unable to provide download or upload speeds comparable to broadband connections.
References
- FCC: Getting Broadband