In today’s technology-heavy age, you might consider yourself pretty tech-savvy. Many of us are connected to the internet 24/7 in our homes, at work and even on the go. However, what do you know about your internet connection? Do you know if it’s a broadband connection or what that even means? Let’s talk about it further.
What Exactly is Broadband?
So, you might be wondering: What is broadband? Well, the technical definition is that it’s a wide bandwidth transmission of data. In other words, it’s a type of high-speed internet connection. It’s one of the most highly used forms of the internet. It’s also much faster than dial-up, which makes it a very attractive option.
What are the Types of Broadband?
Since broadband is a term for a way of getting the internet, there are several different types. They include:
- Fiber
- DSL
- Satellite
- Wireless
- Cable Modem
- BPL (Broadband over powerlines)
All of these types have their pros and cons. It can depend a lot on how you use your internet, what speeds you need and where your home is located. You can always look at our other blog about how to pick your internet connection type for more information.
Are Broadband and Wi-Fi the Same Thing?
The simple answer is, no. People sometimes use the terms interchangeably, but broadband and Wi-Fi are actually different. Broadband is an internet connection type. Since it includes the connections mentioned above, it is how the service is delivered to your home, not how you connect your devices to the internet. Wi-Fi is the manner in which you get your internet. So, you can have a broadband cable internet with a wireless (Wi-Fi) or wired connection that connects to things like your computer, cameras, doorbell, etc.
As such, you can have broadband internet without Wi-Fi. It’s less common to see Wi-Fi without a broadband connection, though, since broadband is very popular.
Is Broadband or Wi-Fi Better?
Since broadband and Wi-Fi are very different, you can’t really say one is better than the other. Broadband is a lot more consistent and secure than other connection types. Wi-Fi is also popular because you can roam around your home or business without being tethered to a wall to get internet access. It’s best to describe broadband and Wi-Fi as a dream team. Having a consistent and secure internet connection with speed will, in turn, make your Wi-Fi work much more smoothly with your devices.
Can Broadband be Wireless?
The short answer is, yes. It does not have to be wired. As mentioned above, broadband internet can be wireless. In order to do this, though, you do need to have the correct equipment. You can’t just order broadband internet and then think that your house will automatically have wireless internet. You need a router and modem that is plugged into your wall and Wi-Fi capable. Once that’s all set up and you’re set up with your internet provider, you will have Wi-Fi for all of the devices that you choose to connect in your home.
However, you don’t need to have a wireless connection. Broadband internet can have a wired or wireless connection. If you’d like to have a wired internet connection, talk to your internet provider and find out what cables you’ll need and where you can plug in your devices to get the internet. It’s different in every home.
Once you pick the type of internet you’re getting for your home, you can get what fits your needs best—wired or wireless broadband—with the right equipment.
What Should You Look for in a Broadband Provider?
If you’re looking for a new broadband provider, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure they’re reliable. The internet is the lifeblood of today’s homes in many ways. If you work from home, do remote schooling, make online purchases, stream movies, need home security, etc. you need reliable internet. The internet can’t be going out all the time, since it’s too crucial to your everyday life. It’s also important to know that if you’re having trouble with your internet, that help is just a phone call away. So, choose a company with a good track record and reliable customer service.
Another important thing to look for is that they’re willing to answer questions. Whether you’re a tech nerd who enjoys gaming or a cute grandma who just wants to Facetime with your grandkids, you’ll have questions about your internet at some point. Go with a company that’s willing to take the time to make sure you understand how your internet works and what you’re paying for with each package.
Lastly, find a company that will help you make sure you’re getting the most out of your internet connection and that what you’re buying fits your needs. You don’t want to go with a company that will sell you on way more or way less internet than you need.
Knowing the types of internet services that are available to you at the best price, best speed and best quality is important. Let Utah Broadband help you get the best connection in your home, office or multi-unit dwelling.
