What is broadband?
Broadband is a type of connection to the internet that makes the transfer of data to and from your computer much faster (which means you don't have to wait half an hour to receive a picture from a friend or a relative). The ‘band' in broadband refers to bandwidth, which is a measure of the amount of information that can be carried by a connection.
The bandwidth for the basic dial-up connection is 56 kilobits per second – relatively tiny and allowing very little information through, resulting in a very slow transfer of data. It can be up to 40 times as wide as that, though the general width is 2Mb/s (megabits a second).
Broadband connections are also “always on” so you do not have to “dial up” to establish a connection to the internet every time you want to go online. They also allow you to be on the internet without tying up your phone line – something that was impossible with dial-up!
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There are a number of things to bear in mind when choosing a broadband provider. For example, reliability of service can vary, customer service certainly varies and depending on where you live, you may not actually receive the speed of broadband connection that is advertised. This is where Simplifydigital can help. Our broadband comparison tool will show you which broadband deals are best suited to you. We'll also check which broadband services are available in your area. And don't forget, our digital experts are on the phone to answer any questions you have too!
Do I need broadband?
As well as the significant increase in speed, it also means that you're not using your phone or fax line whole you're accessing the internet, which means that you can multi-task. And because you're permanently connected to the internet with broadband, you get a fixed price for using broadband, rather than paying by the minute as with dial-up.