Types of Broadband

Getting broadband via telephone or cable network are the widely used methods of broadband connection in the UK. They have long been used in the UK due to larger coverage and provide cheaper services to the customers when compared with alternatives like wi-fi or mobile broadband.

A variant of DSL, ADSL broadband uses a small component called micro-filter to divide the phone line for transmission of data and voice calls. Along with it, ADSL also uses special modems/routers to enable faster internet access and higher download speeds.

Easy-to-install, higher download speeds and easy availability & various options and price packages have put ADSL broadband on top over other technologies.

Broadband can also be accessed via cable network along with digital TV and phone services such as provided by the cable broadband provider, Virgin Media.

Cable network made up of co-axial wires or fibre optic cables is laid underground and offers all services together on the same cable. Bundling features and higher speeds over long distances make many home users to opt for cable broadband.

According to the latest report, Virgin Media is the largest home broadband provider accounting for more than 3.5 million connections in the UK.

Wireless or Wi-fi broadband is delivered via wireless networks that use radio signal and usually provides broadband access in areas where ADSL or cable network is not available. By setting WLANs (Wireless Local Area Networks) with Access Points and aerials in such areas, this kind of broadband provides internet access within the area of its coverage. Public Wi-fi hotspots use a similar technology to provide wireless broadband access to the users.

Mobile phone networks also offer broadband access using 3G or HSDPA (3.5G) technologies. With PCMCIA cards installed in your laptops, you can access internet from anywhere, as far as the signals are strong enough. However, mobile broadband is currently more expensive than ADSL, cable or Wi-fi broadband.

You can either choose ADSL or cable broadband depending on where you live as the broadband type you have chosen should be available in your area. Whether ADSL or cable, there are many options and price packages available so make sure that you get better speeds and services for what you pay.

Below is the table that provides contrasting features of the broadband types that can help your decision: