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February 26, 2006
Forget Dial-Up - Switch 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! Broadband Cable modem Internet subscribers are typically charged for service on their cable bill, rather than paying the ISP directly. The service is usually marketed under names like Road Runner, but the cable company and ISP have distinct responsibilities.
Your local cable company is responsible for installing the cable modem and managing the quality of your service over the local cable network. At the cable company's main network office -- commonly called the "headend" -- you're connected to the cable ISP's national backbone. It, in turn, is plugged into the Internet. The ISP actually provides the Internet connectivity, while your cable company will provide basic technical support. Who do you talk to when there's a problem? Chances are that your cable company will direct you to your ISP.
Cable modem Internet service is typically priced from $30 to $50 a month, which covers the cable modem rental fee; unlimited Internet access; and Internet application software, such as a Web browser and e-mail applications. Cable modem service installation fees, which usually run from $50 to $150, cover cable wiring, an Ethernet card for your computer, and software configuration.
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 or cable is available, by all means jump on the bandwagon and bring your surfing experience into the 21st century!
Posted by billenross at February 26, 2006 05:19 PM
