-
What is Broadband?
-
Broadband is the next generation of Internet access, offering high speed Internet access that is permanently connected and allows both Internet and telephone calls to take place simultaneously on the same land line. This means that you can use the Internet and the phone at the same time.
-
What does an 'always on' service mean?
-
Always on means that broadband is a permanent connection to the internet, and lets you access the internet from the moment you switch on your computer.
-
Can several computers use my broadband connection?
-
Yes, but you will need to set up a system of internet connection sharing. You can do this by dedicating one of your computers to be a server on your home network and having it manage the internet connection, or you can use a router to manage the connection between your network and the internet.
-
How can I tell how much I am downloading?
-
Many broadband packages have download limits in place, and so it is useful to know how much you are downloading. There is software available to allow you to monitor your download usage, or you may be able to get this information from your ISPs website.
If you know how you use the internet, you may be able to estimate your usage, for example:
- Surfing the Web usually averages out at around 10 MB / hour.
- Playing an online game like World of Warcraft is around 10 – 12 MB / hour.
- To stream one music video is approximately 13 MB.
- Watching a streamed broadband video for one hour is around 150 MB / hour.
- An email is approximately 5 -10 Kb, but attachments can bring them up to 300 Kb or more.
-
What does ADSL stand for?
-
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line.
-
What is ADSL?
-
ADSL is a broadband connection technology that uses existing telephone networks. It uses a frequency range not used in normal voice communications to deliver much higher speeds than a traditional 56 k modem (between 4 and 140 times faster). As it splits the signal into two channels, one for voice communications and the other for the high speed data communications, it's possible to use the telephone whilst online.
-
What is the difference between ADSL and DSL?
-
ADSL is a type of DSL where the upstream and downstream speeds differ (hence the "asymmetric" part). The downstream speed (from the exchange to you) is typically faster than the upstream (from you to the exchange).
-
Who offers ADSL?
-
There are hundreds of ISPs offering ADSL service; see our ISP list for details.
-
I don't have a phone line with BT customer – can I still order ADSL?
-
Not at the moment – no. However, you may be able to get broadband through a cable connection. This is provided via the local cable providers network rather than the BT telephone network, and offers similar speeds and services.
-
I have a Mac - can I use ADSL?
-
Yes, but do make sure that any router or modem you buy or is provided by your ISP is Mac supported.
-
What is a micro-filter?
-
A micro-filter (or splitter) is a special adapter that you need to use on your phone line, so that your telephone does not interfere with your ADSL connection. You will need to install a micro-filter on every extension you use.
-
What is an Internet Service Provider (ISP)?
-
An Internet Service Provider is a company that provides connections to the internet for home and business customers. ISPs can also provide other services such as domain name registration, hosting and webmail.
-
I have been told that it is 'very unlikely' that I will be able to get ADSL. Should I bother contacting an ISP to order?
-
If you have been told that it is unlikely that your phone line can receive ADSL, it's usually because your line is a long distance from the local exchange, and so the chance of it not working is much higher than average.
However, it's still worth ordering ADSL with an ISP, as it can't be said for certain whether or not a line will work until it has been activated. If the line fails to work, BT will not charge your ISP anything, and your ISP should refund you any money they have taken in advance.
-
How long is a contract?
-
Contract length with an ISP varies from product to product and ranges from 1 month upwards. Some service providers may offer longer contract periods in return for lower monthly charges.
-
My ISP has told me that a Self-Install of my ADSL service is a cheaper option. How does this work?
-
This means that you will install and connect your system to the ADSL line; an engineer will not call at your house.
Shortly after placing an order with your ISP (and assuming your line passes the required tests), you'll be assigned an activation date. You will then need an ADSL modem or router, which may (or may not) be provided by your ISP. If buying a router, make sure that it is an ADSL modem router, not just a broadband router. After activation, you should be able to connect to the Internet with the details supplied by your service provider.
-
What is an Engineer Assisted Install?
-
An Engineer Assisted installation is a more expensive option than a self-install. An engineer will visit your home or business to connect and configure a modem or router, and answer any questions you may have. Some ISPs may not offer this service.
Favourites (IE)
Print This
Email This
