Understanding Broadband Internet

Broadband Internet provides an always-on connection, fast Web surfing, and e-mail access in a near instant.  Broadband users can download large files like pictures, music and video in a relatively short amount of time.  They can also view streaming video, allowing them to watch TV and movies online without the need to download.  The quick connection also means users can also view streaming content without delay caused by buffering, often a problem with slower connections.  And unlike dialup Internet, broadband users can talk on the phone while they surf the Web.  There are three basic types of broadband or high-speed Internet connections: cable, DSL and satellite.  Cost and performance will vary by provider and area.  It’s rare to see multiple cable Internet providers in a given area, though you may have the option of selecting cable or DSL.  Both offer reliable high-speed Internet, but you may wonder which is faster and/or cheaper.  Cable Internet, in theory, is faster, but performance may lag because users share bandwidth space, but providers often get around this problem by adding bandwidth as their customer base increases.  DSL is a dedicated connection, meaning users don’t share bandwidth space.  A high-end DSL package may outperform cable broadband, but DSL is distance sensitive.  The closer a subscriber lives to the signal, the faster their performance will be.  Check around for the best rates and performance packages. Providers frequently offer promotions like free equipment or low, limited-time introductory rates to entice new customers. Cable and DSL are sometimes available in less populated areas, but often they are not.  In that case, high speed satellite Internet from a provider like Hughesnet may be a worthy alternative to cable or DSL.  It’s up to thirty times faster than dialup, and offers fast downloading and a reliable always-on connection.  It’s available nearly everywhere in the 48 contiguous states as long as residents and businesses have a clear view of the southern sky.  Service is set to expand to more rural areas.  Passed earlier this year, the stimulus package has allocated $7.2 billion to bring additional broadband coverage to some of the nation’s most remote communities.