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Broadband FAQs

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Broadband

What is broadband?

How is broadband connected to your home?

Do I need a separate phone line?

What is ADSL broadband?

Is broadband expensive?

What equipment do I need?

Is broadband available in my area?

How long does it take to get broadband?

 

What is broadband? - Broadband is the term used to describe a digital high speed internet connection. It differs from a dial up connection by being on 24 hours a day. This means more information can be transmitted quicker and easier.

How is broadband connected to your home? - Most home users will receive broadband by one of the following methods:

ADSL - (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) this converts your analogue BT line into an ADSL via a modem at your home and at the BT phone exchange.

Cable - Broadband is delivered via a high speed cable modem using a cable network to your computer.

Do I need a separate phone line? - No, you do not need a separate phone line. Most broadband providers rely on ADSL technology that requires a BT phone line, however in some areas a cable service provided by the likes of NTL and Telewest is available.

Whether you use ADSL technology or cable you will still need to live in a broadband enabled area.

What is ADSL broadband? - ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is a broadband connection technology which utilises existing copper wired telephone networks. ADSL uses a wide range of frequencies over an existing telephone line to deliver much higher speeds than your standard 56k modem (between 10 and 40 times faster).

Is broadband expensive? - There are so many broadband packages currently available there should be something for everyone. Most broadband packages will offer a fixed monthly price so no matter how much you use the internet you won't receive a large, unexpected bill at the end of the month.

Some broadband providers will charge you more up front for your modem and set-up costs but will have lower monthly payments. The simplest way to find out is to use SimplySwitch's broadband comparison service.

What equipment do I need? - Most broadband provides will supply the modem, filters and installation software you need. Some providers will supply this free whilst others will charge you for this equipment. Each broadband provider will have their own PC and Mac requirements.

Is broadband available in my area? - To find out if broadband is available in your area insert your postcode and telephone number into the SimplySwitch broadband calculator.

How long does it take to get broadband connected? - Signing up for broadband couldn't be simpler, it just takes a few minutes of your time to use the SimplySwitch broadband comparison service to find the best package for you. It will then take between 1 and 3 weeks for your broadband provider to send you your welcome pack and to activate your account.

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Broadband