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What is the difference between broadband and a standard dial-up?

Connecting to the internet over a telephone line using a modem, either connected to or installed inside a computer, is known as standard dial-up internet access. With a standard dial-up service, users wait for a dial-up connection from their phone line to use email or the internet.

Standard dial-up access is what many people currently get from their Internet Service Provider (ISP), however more and more people are recognising the benefits of a broadband connection.

Broadband internet services are usually provided over a standard telephone line, however the phone and internet signals are separated - so you can use your phone at the same time as the internet.

Broadband gives you fast access to the internet. Basic packages can be up to ten times faster than a standard connection, which means you can download large files (such as video and music files) in seconds. Broadband is constantly connected so you don't have to wait for a connection to be made when you want to use the internet.

• How to get internet access

Other options

Cable

Cable companies offer high bandwidth services over existing cable networks. A cable modem can offer a similar speed to ADSL services.

Satellite

Broadband internet access can be brought into your home via satellite. Currently, there are two type of satellite broadband available:

One way access provides a very fast connection, but you can only receive information eg you can download internet pages and files but not upload email attachments. If you need to send information back, you would still have to use a cable modem, or dial-up service.

Two way enables information to be sent both ways; so you can send data files back as well as receive them via your satellite. However, sending information back via this service is slow and expensive.

The advantage of using satellite broadband services is that it can be used anywhere.

Wireless

Wireless connections (popularly known as wi-fi connections) are made by transmitting data to and from your computer via radio signals. This offers small communities an increasingly popular alternative to ADSL.

To utilise wireless technologies in your area, you could implement a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). This can be built by putting aerials on the outside of a number of houses, allowing anyone within a certain area to receive broadband internet access. It can cover a street or a whole village.

To set up this option you would have to find a technology company to work with, as this requires a substantial amount of technical knowledge. You would also have to find out how many people would be willing to sign up to the service and what the costs would be.

You should contact your local Regional Development Agency (RDA), who may be aware of existing projects in the pipeline or funding that may be available

• Accessing broadband services in your community
• Check the availability of broadband in your area Opens new window
• Find your Regional Development Agency Opens new window

More useful links

• Different ways you can use broadband Opens new window
• Check the availability of cable, satellite and wireless broadband in your area Opens new window