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.