Switching to Broadband
In our modern, fast-paced environment we have come to expect instant gratification. That
also pertains to how we access the internet. For years, the only option was a dialup
connection. Believe it or not, there still are places in the United States that do not
have access to other alternatives.
If you are fortunate enough to live and work in an area where another alternative is
available by all means make the switch. If you need to have a little bit more information
before shelling out the extra bucks each month, then let’s take a look at some of the
options that may be available in your locale. Before we do that, however, we need to
explore the technology a little further and take a look at some terminology.
What is Broadband? Broadband refers collectively to technology that allows data transfer
through your phone lines at a much higher rate than standard dialup.
What is DSL (Direct Subscriber Link)? DSL allows you to connect to the internet at the
same time you are using your phone without any interruption. It does this by putting
digital “bits” that are not heard into the frequency of your phone line.
What is Bandwidth? Bandwidth is the size and speed of the connection. You need the fastest
speed and reliability where the connection has a higher priority, i.e. FROM the internet
TO your home or office, while a smaller bandwidth is used in the opposite scenario FROM
your home or office TO the internet.
The bottom line is that DSL is faster, more efficient and more reliable than standard
dialup. If you have ever tried downloading large files on a dialup connection, you know
how long it takes. When it comes to listening to music, watching any kind of videos or
playing games, it is virtually an exercise in futility on a dialup connection.
DSL is relatively inexpensive for what you get:
You can enjoy streaming live audio and video, watch movies online, listen to radio
stations and live news and that’s just for starters! If you like to play computer games,
you can do that while online and still not miss any important phone calls!
Downloading data, sound or video files can be accomplished in almost the blink of an eye.
What used to take a half hour or more to download will be done in minutes or in some cases
even in seconds! And all of those photographs that you’ve taken with your digital camera
to send to the grandparents? No need to wait for developing. In seconds you can send the
photos!
If you are lucky enough to live in an area where DSL is available, by all means jump on
the bandwagon and bring your surfing experience into the 21st century!
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