According to Webster’s dictionary, broadband (high speed internet access) is defined as of, relating to, or being a communications network in which a frequency range is divided into multiple independent channels for simultaneous transmission of signals (as voice, data, or video).

A major advantage of broadband or high speed internet access that it is “always on.” In addition, choosing broadband internet service will allow you to explore the full potential of the web. It will give you access to a whole new world of entertainment of rich media content such as film, music and interactive presentations.

Moreover, high speed internet access allows faster download times than a standard dial up connection, which can take hours to download large files such as software updates or music files. With broadband internet service, you can download large files, movies, software updates, music and films in a matter of minutes, if not seconds!

Furthermore, high speed internet access does not have to be expensive, either. With broadband, you are able to sign up for a set monthly subscription. You can use your broadband connection as much as you want, day or night, without having to worry about additional call charges and unexpectedly large phone bills.

There are several types of high speed internet access: satellite DSL, VoIP, satellite internet, T1, DS-3 and Frame Relay. Below describes and defines each type of broadband service.

What is Satellite DSL?

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is a technology that delivers high bandwidth information to homes and businesses over ordinary copper telephone lines. DSL refers to different variations of DSL, such as ADSL, HDSL and RADSL. A DSL line can carry both data and voice signals and the data part of the line is continously connected.

What is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is a term used in IP telephony for a set of facilities for managing the delivery of voice information using the Internet Protocol. Basically, VoIP entails sending voice information in digital form in discrete packets rather than the usual protocols of the telephone network. A major advantage of VoIP is that it allows the user to avoid toll charges issued by telephone companies.

What is Satellite Internet?

Satellite internet is an arrangement in which the outgoing and incoming data are sent from, and arrive at, a computer through a satellite. Each subscriber’s hardware includes a satellite dish antenna and a transceiver that operates in the microwave portion of the radio spectrum.

What is T1?

T1 (T-1) sometimes referred to as DS1 lines, is a dedicated phone connection supporting data rates of 1.544 megabits per second (Mbps). A T-1 line actually consists of 24 individual channels, each supporting 64Kbits per second. Each 64Kbit / second channel can be configured to carry voice or data traffic. Most telephone companies will allow you to buy some individual channels, known as fractional T-1 access. Most small to mid-sized colleges and businesses have T-1 lines for internet connections.

What is DS-3?

DS-3, sometimes referred to as T-3 lines, is a dedicated phone connection supporting data rates of about 43 Mbps. A T-3 line actually consists of 672 individual channels, each supporting 64 Kbps. T-3 lines are used mainly by Internet Service Providers (ISP) connecting to the internet backbone and for the backbone itself. Cognigen Dedicated is a provider of DS-3 (T-3) access.

What is Frame Relay?

Frame Relay is a packet-switching protocol for connecting devices on a Wide Area Network (WAN). Frame Relay networks in the U.S.A. support data transfer rates at T-1 (1.544 Mbps) and T-3 (45 Mbps) speeds. Frame Relay can be thought of as a way of utilizing existing T-1 and T-3 lines owned by a service provider. Most telephone companies now provide Frame Relay service for users who want connections at 56 Kbps to T-1 speeds. Cognigen Dedicated is a provider of Frame Relay.



Thanks to Reginald Sharp for contributing this article to our DSL blog:

DSL Tips

In order to enjoy internet access, a device known as a modem must be connected to your computer. These devices come in various forms, but the most common types are cable, dial-up and DSL modems. The type of modem you will require all depends on your internet connection.

The key to finding out what type of modem you need is learning about the internet services offered in your area. The easiest type of service to obtain is dial-up access over traditional phone lines. Unfortunately, dial-up just happens to be the slowest internet connection available. Cable and DSL are considered as broadband services and tend to be much faster. Short for Digital Subscriber Line, DSL is a type of service that you may or may not be able to obtain from your local phone company. Although DSL is fast, cable connections offer more speed. This type of connection can be obtained from a cable company that provides internet access. Because these connections use a different means for connecting to the internet, each requires a compatible modem.

Dial-up Modems

Dial-up modems are typically pre-installed into a computer, while cable and DSL modems come in external variations. If there is no modem in your computer, you will need to physically install one. To begin, shut down the machine, unplug it from the power source, and disconnect all peripherals. After removing the case and metal plate for the expansion slot, insert the modem into vacant slot in a gentle, but firm motion. Put the machine back together and connect an available phone cord into the line jack for the modem.

Whether you install an internal or external dial-up modem, device drivers will need to be installed as well. Drivers will enable your modem and operating system to communicate with each other. To install the device drivers, enter the installation disc that came with your hardware and follow the prompts for adding new hardware. After the installation, you should reboot your computer and have no problems making a dial-up connection.

Cable and DSL Modems

If you want to install a cable or DSL modem, it is important to know that an NIC (Network Interface Card) is required. Most new computers today come with these devices pre-installed. Both a cable and DSL modem will also come included with a CAT5 cable that allows you to connect the hardware to your computer. Aside from being connected to the computer, your modem will need a direct connection to the internet. To achieve this, you will need your phone company or cable provider to install a special jack in your home. Simply use the provided cable to connect the modem to the jack.

Just as with dial-up modems, cable and DSL modems require device drivers in order to function properly. The hardware should come included with an installation disc that allows you to install the appropriate drivers. Keep in mind that you may be required to follow additional tasks after the installation as specified by your service provider.



Thanks to Adam K Smith for contributing this article to our DSL blog:

DSL High Speed Internet

Can you answer furrykinz’s question about DSL?:

I just got a dell inspiron 600 laptop but can’t get onto the internet. I do have a wireless internet box, its a sbc. There are so many numbers at the bottom, i don’t know which one is the internet number. I also don’t know where i would type it in. It would be helpful to have step by step directions if you don’t mind.

Thanks!

Cheap Wireless Routers

Can you answer tou2yaj’s question about DSL?:

I am having issues with my internet not working properly. I want to try to plug my cable internet into my computer or laptop, without using my router to see if it is an internet connection problem or a router problem; because I do not want to buy another router. Since they are so expensive. Please advise.

Broadband DSL Provider

Today their are millions of people who are struggling with a slow internet service that keeps them stuck in one spot. If they have broadband DSL service they are paying a premium for it. If they have wireless internet service delivered through the cell phone network, they are paying a premium for it.

A new company not WIFI or WIMAX yet to be named will be delivering unlimited mobile T1 Wireless soon. Try to think about being able to stay connected via a high speed T1 level broad band connection up to 7 times faster than DSL at home, while on the road, while flying over the countryside, or while traveling by train or bus. Think about being able to do all of your high speed mobile internet communications just like a cell phone only with better coverage. How about service replacing your home phone line as well as your cell phone and local internet service.

If you are one of the millions who struggle with a slow Internet connection that keeps you stuck in one spot, or are paying a premium for mobile wireless Internet delivered through the Cell Phone network, Relief is on the way.



Try to imagine getting mobile internet and phone for less than what you pay for local phone service now. It is projected this year is the year for launch of new long range mobile wilreless broadband internet technology. It is not related to any current known technology, but is a totally new wireless internet technology.

2008 is the projected year for the launch of a new mobile wireless broadband Internet technology that might appropriately be called wifi and wimax on steroids. This service is not related to any currently known technology but a totally new wireless Internet technology.

The funding for this technology was put in place in 2003 with up to $13,000,000 (13 Billion) being pledged by seven US based investment bankers. The chip has been developed and testing has been successfullly completed showing that the mobile wireless high speed internet signal can be broadcast over 30 miles without regard to the number of users connected and is capable of broadcasting signals equivelent to a dedicated T1 or T3 Line.

The whole world is ready for this new technology for all of the benefits of better service and lower costs. Technology is just a wonderful thing that brings new innovations for a better quality of life for all concerned.

Paul Gardner

 



Thanks to Paul Gardner for contributing this article to our DSL blog:

Cable Internet Service