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If you are considering getting broadband for the first time there are quite a few providers around. Some are most definitely better than others. You need to consider a few things before you rush out buy the first Broadband package you come across... |
Do some research first
The first thing you need to know is that with all ISP's (Internet Services Providers) broadband, all the ads are very misleading. They ALL quote broadband speeds of up to a particular speed and ALL at different prices! The fact is they all say "Up to xMbps broadband" and not "xMbps broadband" there is a difference and it can be often contractual making complaining really difficult. Current speed broadband packages range from 2Mbps up to a massive 24Mbps.
Beware of the Download Limit !
 One other thing to think about is "Download Limit" You must check if the package has a download limit which may cut off your internet connection when you reach it within any calendar month. You have to decide how you are going to use the internet. If you are just going it use it to surf and get email then download limits will not affect you. However, if you intend to download music, video and other large files then you must consider "Unlimited" connection, believe me its not funny being cut off on the 12th day of the month!!!
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ADSL connection
Any broadband connected to the internet in the UK that uses a phone line is called an ADSL connection. It uses high frequency signals to connect to the net, while your phone uses low frequency signals. The two signals are separated by a filter which you simply plug into your phone socket.
Getting connected
 This is not as difficult as you think. When you sign up with an ISP they will often, for free, provide you with their own Router (modem type device that you plug into your phone socket and your computer to connect to the internet). You must make sure to ask because some ISP's will charge you for the equipment. Routers can be small devices but no larger than a small box of cornflakes.
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An important consideration must be made as to where you will put your Broadband router. All routers are powered so make sure you site you phone line near a power socket.
Which Broadband is the best one to get?
The best thing to do here is surf the net and look for "Broadband reviews or Broadband comparison" websites. Another very important factor that will affect your ADSL Broadband choice is where your home is situated compared to the main phone line exchange. Distance will affect the speed of any connection you buy. The further away from the phone exchange you are the slower your connection will be.
There is absolutely no point going for the expensive "up to 10Mbps connection" when the best you might get from your ADSL phone line is 2Mbps.
How do you know what your local ADSL performance is like?
There is only one way to find out what your local telephone exchange is like and that is to speed test the internet connection. If you are just looking to change your ISP then speed testing your current connection is no problem.
If you don't have broadband how do you test it? You need to have a friendly neighbour who already has broadband and ask them nicely if they can speed test their connection for you, I'm sure that when you tell them about my articles they will be only too willing to speed test their connection.
I have listed below some resources where you find more information. I will not write extensive articles about broadband because there is already masses of information out there: -
Cable Broadband v ADSL Broadband
Some people may state that Cable broadband is far better than the ADSL connection type because the infrastructure uses the latest technology fibre optic cabling etc. This is just not true, a cable connection still suffers from the same problems as ADSL so don't mislead by this.
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