Glossary of Broadband Internet Terms

Please use this glossary of broadband internet terms to help aid your decision in finding the best broadband deal for yourself.

What does Connection Speed mean?

Connection speed is one of the main attributes of an internet connection. It determines how fast it goes. The higher the amount the faster your internet will go. Connection speed is measured in kilobytes. 1024Kb means 1Mb. The higher the amount the faster it goes. 512Kb means 0.5Mb. Most regular broadband connections range between 512kb - 2Mb. Anything higher is for internet users who are downloading often for task's such as online gaming, photo management and music downloads. Factors such as where you live and which service providers are available to you can determine your maximum speed.

What are Bandwidth Limits?

Bandwidth is the amount of information you download. This information comes in the form of emails, surfing the internet, downloading files. It is the total amount that you download in total over a period of time. Some broadband internet provider force monthly bandwidth limits upon your connection on a monthly basis. This means that once you reach your bandwidth limit you cannot use your internet connection for the rest of the month. This from our point of view is not a good option for anyone though it does bring the cost of some connections down. We tend to say avoid those providers with limits if you download things alot especially music, photos, video or play online games. There are some 'golden' providers out there that have no limits. Use the broadband internet provider search to find the providers which suit you - unlimited bandwidth is available to search.

What is a Monthly Fee?

The monthly fee is the amount that you will pay your broadband provider for the service. Look out for introductory offers which last only for a certain period of time before reverting back to the standard monthly fee.

What does Free Setup mean?

Some broadband internet providers charge a setup fee anywhere up to £50 and even more. It is best to find broadband internet services which have a free setup as there are some available.

What does Free Modem mean?

To connect to the internet all computer need what is called a modem. It must be a modem which is compatible with a broadband connection. If you are getting ADSL internet connection it must be an ADSL modem. Some providers give you them for free while others make you buy one. They vary in price depending what you are looking for. They are also usually at least an option to buy from your broadband provider if they are not free. Cable modem providers are usually free as you cannot purchase these in shops. Shop about and use the broadband search to find a provider which provides a free modem.