Before the advent of broadband access, Internet users had to rely on a dial-up connection, which accessed the Internet via a modem -- either connected to or built into their computer -- and telephone lines. Dial-up's low transmission speed, however, resulted in slow performance; furthermore, it tied up the telephone line, preventing users from receiving or making calls while online. Broadband, also called high-speed Internet, is available through several means and circumvents the limitations of dial-up connections, making Internet access much faster and more versatile.
Broadband Vs. Dial-up
Broadband access does not interfere with telephone use and provides a constant Internet connection; on the other hand, dial-up users spend time logging on to their Internet service first -- and sometimes just getting busy signals. The highest transmission speed available with dial-up is only 56 kilobits per second, whereas broadband can transmit millions of bits per second, which makes accessing web pages, viewing videos, downloading files and performing other online activities far faster. Broadband access also facilitates services such as e-learning, e-commerce and online health care.
Digital Subscriber Line
Digital subscriber line (DSL) works through standard telephone lines. Users must have a router or modem connected to their computers to access DSL service. There are several forms of DSL: asymmetric (ADSL), symmetric (SDSL), high data rate (HDSL) and very high data rate (VDSL). ASDL, which has faster downstream (transmission to the user's computer) than upstream (transmission from the user's computer) capability, is suitable for home use. Because businesses sometimes need to transmit large amounts of digital data, SDSL, HDSL or VDS are more suitable for them, as these forms have much greater upstream capability than ASDL.
Cable and Fiber Optic Connections
Broadband is also available through cable TV companies, which use their cables to provide Internet access along with TV channels. A cable modem is also required. A downside of cable broadband is that, unlike DSL, it does not give users a dedicated line; rather, multiple users rely on the same cable line, making transmission speed dependent on traffic. Made of silicon, fiber optic lines carry data in the form of laser light. They provide much faster broadband access than cable or DSL.
Wireless Service
Wireless systems carry broadband Internet through radio signals. One form of wireless Internet service is called wireless fidelity, or Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi creates a local network, enabling the computers in a home, business or other place to go online. Mobile wireless systems provide broadband Internet to users with a mobile telephone or a computer equipped with the necessary hardware. In addition, broadband Internet is also transmitted via satellite, granting broadband access to users with a satellite dish.
References
- British Broadcasting Corporation: How Does Broadband Work?
- Broadband Info: Broadband FAQ
- Broadband.gov: Types of Broadband Connections
- Direct.gov: Different Types of Broadband
- Federal Communications Commission: Getting Broadband
- International Telecommunication Union: The Birth of Broadband
Resources
- TelecomsAdvice: Broadband -- A Guide for Small Businesses
Photo Credits
- John Foxx/Stockbyte/Getty Images