It seems it's all about broadband these days. Your friends are asking you what broadband provider are you with, what is your broadband speed, what type of broadband do you use, and so on.

Not to worry if you don't know the answers to these questions - we've all at some point started out as broadband babies. This guide is here to help your broadband knowledge to grow.

So what's broadband?

This is an easy one. Broadband is simply any kind of fast internet connection. That's all there is to it.

So how is broadband different from a dial-up connection?

Although the equipment may seem to be similar, a modem here and a modem there, it's in fact a very different sort of a modem.

Unlike dial-up, with broadband you will be able to access the World Wide Web 24/7.

Also, you'll be able to use it as much or as little as you want for a set monthly fee - these vary depending on how fast your service is, what brand you decide to go with, among other things.

In addition, broadband internet is much faster than dial-up, which let's face it has become extinct.

Ok, so why is broadband so special?

There is an array of things you will be able to do once you have broadband internet - but we warn you, once you enter you will be hooked:

Streaming videos including live news, as well as listening to music;

Don't like streaming? Indulge in downloading songs and flicks;

Tetris is so retro - time to play games online;

Keep in touch with your family via live video;

In a nutshell - the virtual world which broadband internet will introduce you to will be fun, fast and convenient.

Is broadband difficult to set up?

Surely you will not need a degree in computer science to do this - everyone can install broadband effortlessly! Here are the steps:

Sign up for a broadband deal which suits you most. There is a wide array of providers ready to supply a broadband connection to you.

It's probably worth looking at our previous guide - Suppliers at a Glance. Most internet service providers (ISPs) will set up a date to connect you to the World Wide Web.

To make things even more user-friendly, broadband providers will send you a CD with a step-by-step guide on what exactly to do - rest assured, no sudden questions will pop up!

Some companies also send engineers to set up the connection for you - either way it's going to be easy and quick.

More info?

If you are not sure what providers to go with or indeed what type of broadband will be most suitable for your family - write us a quick line or give one of our impartial advisors a call. After all, they are here to help!