Choosing the Right Broadband Connection

In today’s fast paced modern world, having a reliable Internet connection can be a huge advantage. Clearly, it is one of the fastest and most convenient way to find the information that you need. Communication has never made been better as well. With just a few clicks, you can now reach your friends and family.

In the past, Internet access was very limited, especially in most suburbs in the rural area. Residents needed to go to the city proper just to have access to the Internet. Fortunately, the NBN Broadband Internet Service has made it possible for everyone to enjoy a fast and reliable Internet connection.  In this post we will discuss the different types of broadband Internet and its features.

1. DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)

This is a wire line transmission device, which transmits data faster than a traditional copper telephone lines. Its speed ranges from up to hundreds of Kbps to millions of bits per second. The speed depends on the distance from your home or office to its main network provider.

2. Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL)

This is the newly improved wire line connection. It has recently been used by residential customers. It can provide better speed and connection in the downstream direction than the upstream. It may also allow faster downstream data transmission over the same line. The connection will not be disrupted by any regular telephone calls.

3. Satellite Internet

This is the most popular wireless broadband Internet in the rural area. The availability and spend depend on several factors. This includes the provider and service package you are subscribing. Other factors that may affect your connection is the line of sight and weather. Basically, you can expect to receive or at an average speed of about 500 Kbps and send at a speed of about 80-100 Kbps.

4. Fibre

The Fibre optic device converts electrical signals, which carry data to light and sends the signals through transparent glass fibre. The speed may vary on several factors as well. This includes the distance of your device to the service provider, and the router used for your connection.

The good thing about those service providers under the NBN is they have licensed technicians who will help you identify the right broadband connection for you. Installation is usually free and you may also choose the best package that will suit your budget and requirements. 

Which Internet Browser Should I use?

A ding-dong battle is looming in today’s web browsers. It’s much easier now to search what you’re looking for. System overhaul and interface modifications for each browser are making it more convenient and enjoyable for every user.

In the past, Google was the most reliable tool when it comes to providing accurate results to search queries. Most web browsers are now faster, more secure, and compliant with the new web standards. Mozilla Firefox and Microsoft Internet Explorer are now making their way on top again along with the most popular web browser, Google Chrome.

Each browser has its own unique features. Microsoft Internet Explorer is known for its graphics hardware acceleration. They also work well with 64-bit programs. Privacy and security settings is not a problem as well.

Google Chrome is on top when it comes to cutting-edge technologies such as instant page loading for search and voice response. On the other hand, Firefox excels in add-on tools. They are also known for “extensions”, which allows you to customise the browser according to your preference. Other tools include Panorama Bookmark and the Social API, which makes it easier to incorporate a social site into the browser.

Popular Web Browsers and their new features

1.      Google Chrome Version 33

The new version of Google Chrome focused more on the security and stability issues. Google will now include support for Android users. There are a few minor changes, though. This includes the re-opening of closed tabs from the new tab page. This means you cannot choose a new-tab page other than Google’s big search box. Another change is that the Windows 8 version can now replace the modern tablet IE version. It only discards “metro” design standards. 

2.      Firefox 27

Firefox updates have made quite a few improvements not only to its interface, but also the overall system. They have improved their speed, memory, support for WebRTC, and Web audio support. The new version remains the most customisable browser for users (even without Australis).

3.      Microsoft Internet Explorer 11

Finally, the new version of Microsoft Internet Explorer is now making its way back to the top. The new update is not only serving as the default browser, but also empowers some of the new-style apps in Windows 8.1. The interface is now more user-friendly. You can easily navigate the tabs and the loading page is much faster.

To improve online experience, make sure to use the latest version of your web browser. Upgrade your connection with a reliable  Internet service provider.

Broadband 101: Different Types of Broadband Internet Available

Knowing the different types of broadband Internet is very important. Each has specific functionality and features designed for every user. One thing that you should know is that broadband Internet has a very wide coverage. This includes cable, DSL, fibre optic service or FiOS and satellite Internet. So which one is the right for you? Before you choose your package, here’s a brief summary of the different types of broadband connections available:

1.      DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) – DSL works over regular lines, sending signals as fast as 25-30 megabits per second. In premium services, the speed may improve with 100 Mbps or even more. There are 2 types of DSL: SDSL (Symmetric DSL) and ADSL (Asymmetric DSL). In most packages, ADSL is much cheaper, but both offer significant Internet speed. On the other hand, SDSL is the best choice if you upload or download files regularly. 

Advantages: Despite the fact that they are cheaper than any other broadband options, they still offer a significant speed. This would still depend on your provider. Just make sure they will install a dedicated router to maintain the speed that you paid for.

Disadvantages: Some DSL connections will depend on distance. This means the farther you are from the “mother network” or the central office, there is a chance that it might affect your connection. 

2.      Cable Broadband – This service is usually included in your cable television package. It functions over coaxial cable TV wires with an average speed of 3 Mbps to 100 Mbps.

Advantages:  Your connection will depend on your distance. It may also have the same speed with DSL and satellite Internet, and it is more available than fibre optic broadband.

Disadvantages: In most cases, your bandwidth is shared with others. This means your connection might get affected from time to time—the more subscribers using it in your area at once, the slower your connection is.

3.      Satellite – As you expect, it uses satellites to send and receive Internet feed to subscribers’ satellite dishes.

Advantages: Satellite has a wide coverage and can provide a satisfying Internet speed in rural areas.

Disadvantages:  It’s a bit slower and more expensive compared to other broadband options.

4.      Fibre Optic – This is the most popular broadband Internet today. It uses glass or plastic threads to send or receive signals.

Advantages: It offers the fastest Internet speed, which can go as high as 300 Mbps.

Disadvantages: It is only available in limited areas.

Choosing the right broadband package is also important. Fortunately today, there are several Internet providers in Australia. They offer different broadband packages including Fibre Optic and Satellite Internet.

Essential Tips when Using Instagram for your Business

Instagram is one of many popular social apps that businesses use today. It may not qualify as a marketing strategy for some, but you will be surprised at what it can offer as an advertising tool. Even if you already have Facebook or Twitter, it wouldn't hurt to add one more. In the area of social signals, there really is no such thing as less is more.

And since getting a good wireless broadband is a lot easier than ever before, creating and updating your Instagram should not be that tricky. In fact, you can even install an Instagram App on your phone or tablet:

Instagram App on Google Play for Android users

Instagram App on iTunes for iOs devices

There are rules, however, that you need to follow just like any social media platform. Here are some guidelines to ensure you are using your Instagram wisely to benefit your business:

·         Post relevant photos

Posting a picture of a bar of soap for your detergent line? A set of mugs for your home ceramic products? These may be your official product photos, but will it interest your audience? It is a no brainer for businesses to use the product photos they have, but that does not mean it will entice your audience.

Instead of posting a bar of soap from your detergent line, post a picture of a kid and a puppy playing in a tub filled with water and soap suds. And instead of posting a set of mugs from your home ceramic products, post a picture of a group of friends enjoying coffee using your mugs. Be creative and post an experience that will entice your audience to buy even if you are not using your official product photos.

·         Create a full profile

It is the only way of telling your followers that you are truly the brand you represent. Also, unlike Twitter, there is no way to verify your account on Instagram.

If you want to promote your business on Instagram, you need to provide your complete business name, website link and contact details that you know your customers will need from you. At the end of the day, if your follower is unable to get the get the information they need from you, they will simply look away and move on.

·         Always interact with your followers

Since it is a golden rule not to over-post, it is important to appear engaged with your followers by interacting with them on the said platform. It is impossible not to be notified of the posts your Instagram photos receive, so make sure to respond to them, especially if it is a query or a form of concern. It makes followers feel good to be responded to. It means their points are treated well across.

Investing on social signals is essential for any small or large business. It is a form of free advertising that provides benefits that traditional advertising cannot readily offer. To use Instagram well for your business’ exposure, invest in a fast and reliable broadband internet that will not be a disappointment. 

Choosing the Right Internet Broadband

Communication and information, especially the Internet, have become the primary tools for maintaining and enhancing sustainable development and growth in the global economy. There has been a big change in scenery in rural life since the development of broadband and satellite Internet. In the past, Internet connections were only limited in some areas.

While some people stick to inconsistent web connections, others even need to travel to the nearest town proper just to have access to the Internet. Thanks to modern broadband devices, people in rural areas can now have Internet access within their palms.

To give you a better look, here are some of the advantages of having a reliable broadband connection.

·        Cost-effectiveness

The first thing you will notice is the price or rates offered by the service providers. There are many companies offering affordable and discounted plans that will suit your budget. Choose the best plan that will suit your needs.

·        Better communication

The newly improved broadband device has revolutionised rural communication. With online video tools like Yahoo Messenger and Skype, you can keep in touch with your family and friends. You can even schedule a weekly or monthly online call.

Email allows you to send and retrieve messages with attachments.  You can send different documents, images and even videos. The use of social media is very evident as well. It gives you the details you need,  making it the most convenient and fastest way to communicate with the rest of the world.

·        Education and more information

The best thing about the Internet is the information you can get all over the world. You can be updated with the latest news and technology. There are also apps you can download that can help you with your daily living. Students don’t need to buy more books or stay late at the library to do their research. They can simply do everything at home.

·        Entertainment

After a long and tiring day at work, you deserve to take a break and have fun as well. The Internet has a lot of things to offer. You can play online games, watch videos, download music, or listen to online radio stations.

·        Business

With a reliable Internet connection, you can start your own business. It’s easy to sell items online these days. You can join to different online group shops or you can also set your online store. This can help you trim down the overhead expense. 

These are just some of the advantages you can get from having a good broadband connection. If you want a reliable and cost-effective web connection, look for optic fibre Internet plans.

When Your Internet Connection Becomes Flaky...

Unless your internet connection is obscenely slow and the reason for this stems directly from your internet service provider, you need to think of the many possible ways to address your speed concerns.

It’s time to be creative and thoughtful.

If the quality of your internet connection is slow on all computers, laptops and devices at home or at the office, investigate on the hardware  by resetting the modem and the router. Resetting both your modem and router accounts 90% of most home internet problems. Update the firmware of your router if resetting it becomes a little too often.

How do you reset your router? First, you need to unplug the router followed by unplugging the modem. Count 10 seconds, then plug both back again; the modem first, followed next by the router. Wait for some time for it to boot up properly. Wait for the activity lights to show and then try connecting again. Resetting modem and router solves 90% of most home internet problems.

If it does not solve the issue, eliminate the router. Connect your computer directly to the modem, then reset the modem again. If the connection is still slow or null, contact your ISP.

If you cannot access a particular website, there can only be 2 reasons that can explain it. Your internet connection may not even be the reason why you cannot load it; the cause lies in the website's server. To rule out this possibility, check other websites and see if it loads on your browser. If it happens to be an isolated case, then the reason indeed lies in the website's server.

If you cannot check other websites, then the problem lies in your internet connection. Try contacting your internet service provider for help on this.

If you can access websites in one computer and not in other devices, then the problem lies not in your internet connection, but on your local machine. It helps to look into the browser that you are using. Check if you are using the updated version. Check too if your anti-virus is still working as there is a possibility also that your computer has been inflicted with a virus, thus preventing you from loading websites on your browser.

Dealing with a flaky internet connection is not everyone’s forte. But be patient and use your mental faculties in thinking of the possible causes why it is slow instead of letting your wrath and frustration cloud your thoughts. Most troubleshooting tips are simple. You just have to eliminate all the possible reasons why your internet connection is failing you one step at a time.

5 Benefits of Broadband Internet Services

The beauty of broadband internet is it allows users to perform tasks online minus the bit rate and speed limitations. It is a great technology to have that even non-tech savvy people should consider having in their lives. It is just bursting with benefits that are simply hard to pass by. What are examples of broadband internet benefits? This article lists down 5 that you should know.

1.     It helps commercial enterprises stay successful. In this age of online stores and digital storefronts, it is essential that businesses stay with this trend than let others surpass them. Having a broadband Internet connection lets businesses, especially small ones, to make profits and sales even with little capital on hand.

They say that broadband Internet is the great equaliser when it comes to online enterprises, and it is true since a lot of businesses that started small are now able to compete with the big names in their chosen industry all thanks to a broadband connection. Not only are they closer to their customers, but they are also able to engage more easily with them through online channels such as emails and social media.

2.      It helps with education. The internet is not only about the connections it creates; it is also about the vast information and resources that it contributes to the world of learners. The internet is home to online universities, dictionaries, online dissertations, libraries, educational videos, encyclopedias and language sites that help facilitate a fun learning environment for students in schools and universities.

For people who cannot afford to go to school or do not have the time to go to class, broadband Internet is their own teacher. Distance learning is made possible by the steady and uninterrupted connection of broadband Internet.

3.     It helps employees be more productive. With the birth of broadband technology, whether in the form of fibre, fixed wireless or satellite, it has ushered in a brand new definition of employment. With super fast and high-speed Internet, employees now:

·        Have the luxury of working within the comforts of their own home.

·        Can freelance outside their 8 to 5 jobs. We now have rapid access to online jobs all thanks to a reliable internet connection in the form of broadband.

·        Can connect with their bosses, managers and co-employees anywhere they are in the world.

·        Can decrease travel expenses such as booking a flight, a hotel or paying for transportation in general since they can connect with their co-employees using teleconferencing, emails and instant messaging made possible by broadband internet.

4.     It creates a more fun entertainment experience. With a fast and seamless internet connection, it is now possible to download or stream TV shows and movies with just a few clicks on the mouse. Regardless of the file size, whether a 720p movie or a high-def movie at 10800p, a fast broadband connection will not disappoint you during Friday movie night at home.

With a reliable internet connection at home, you can turn your living room into a movie theatre. You can say goodbye to your TV set also as you go along.

5.     It simply changes the way you live. You can pay your bills, shop online, interact and communicate all with a broadband connection. You also get to stay in the know with the current news with broadband technologies that let you stay connected with the world. It is true that life B.C. (or Before Computers) were a lot simpler than today, but no one can deny the fact that computers and the technologies that came along with it namely Internet broadband has significantly changed our lives for the better. Do you agree?