In general, Broadband refers to telecommunication in which a wide band of frequencies is available to transmit information. Subsequently, information can be sent concurrently on many different frequencies or channels within the band, allowing more information to be transmitted in a given amount of time (the same as more lanes on a motorway allow more cars to travel on it at the same time). Broadband is distinct from Narrowband - a term used to define traditional modes of transmission such as an analogue telephone line.

The term Broadband is now being used to describe 'always on' low cost Internet access which currently is up to ten times faster than a dial up connection. There are a range of broadband solutions you can choose from, depending on your location, the number of staff in your business and the speed at which you want to send and receive information. Broadband services are delivered using a technology called ADSL.

What Is ADSL?
ADSL ("Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line") is a type of digital service delivered over your telephone line. It works by splitting your existing telephone line signal into two, one for voice and the other for data. ADSL technology can work at up to 8Mbps download. The most popular services in the UK at the moment are running at speeds of 512Kbps (approx. 10 times faster than a modem), although speeds of up to 2Mbps can be obtained. Upload speeds are 256Kbps on all products and hence this is why it is "asymmetric", because the download speed is different to the upload speed.

How Does ADSL Operate In The UK?
The majority of services are available through a broad range of ISPs (Internet Service Providers), who are reselling products from network operators such as British Telecommunications ("BT Wholesale") and Kingston Communications. It is the responsibility of the network operator to deliver your data (whether it be transmitted using a standard modem, ADSL or some other means) to and from your ISP of choice. It is a common misconception that "BT Openworld" is the only source of DSL service - in fact, "BT Openworld" is just one of many ISPs competing for your business.

Do You Need Broadband?
Despite all the hype about Broadband and its benefits you may not need it. As part of our consultancy service we can help you decide if your business needs Broadband, who can supply it to you, how much it will cost and what the benefits are to YOU.