Basics of Broadband
Broadband is more expensive than dialup, but is faster and more reliable. It is the main technology being used today, for both home and business use.
Broadband is an "always on" connection. It is not portable - it's fixed to your phone line. You can only access it from the premises that you specify when you apply. Your computer does not have to make a phone call to connect, as it's always connected. You can use your phone and surf the internet at the same time using broadband.
Broadband will not work with a dialup modem. You will need an ADSL modem/router. There are many different types of broadband modems and routers. Some of them can send the data to your computer wirelessly, some can connect many computers together to form a network (and provide the broadband to them), and some are a simple broadband in, broadband out modem. Which modem you need depends on factors such as how many computers you want to provide broadband to, and what existing hardware is already installed.
Broadband also requires the use of line filters. Line filters are a small device you attach between the phone line and the wall socket. It filters out the "noise" on the phone line and allows the broadband to work properly. You need a line filter on every device (eg. fax machines) or your broadband may continuously disconnect/reconnect itself.
Summary:
- Broadband is faster than dialup
- Broadband is fixed to the phone line, it is not portable
- Broadband can be used at the same time as your phone