What Is Broadband Internet?
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“Broadband” and “high-speed internet” are two interchangeable terms you’ve probably read a countless number of times during your search for the best internet service provider. But what exactly is the definition of broadband? To make your quest of finding internet service providers near you easier, we’ll break down the broadband definition, speed, and connection types in 3, 2, 1.
All About Broadband
The FCC’s definition of broadband is a minimum download speed of 25 Mbps and 3 Mbps upload speed. Download speed is the rate digital data is transferred from the internet to your device, and upload speed is the rate digital data is transferred from your device to the internet. Broadband connects users to the internet and internet-connected services (streaming, gaming, etc.) at faster speeds than traditional dial-up access. Broadband speed differs based on connection type and chosen internet provider and plan. Try a broadband speed test to check your current speed, and learn more about what internet speed you need for your lifestyle. For reference, here are minimum download speeds needed for certain activities:
- General web browsing and email: 1 Mbps
- Checking social media: 1 Mbps
- Console gaming connected to the internet: 3 Mbps
- Streaming standard definition video: 3 – 4 Mbps
- Online multiplayer gaming: 4 Mbps
- Streaming high definition video: 5 – 8 Mbps
- Streaming Ultra HD 4K video: 25 Mbps
Types of Broadband Connections
Broadband internet is available through these main technology types:
DSL
DSL internet, short for Digital Subscriber Line, uses the copper phone lines that already run through most homes to transmit digital data.
Pros
- Doesn’t require new wiring, uses phone lines
- Available in rural areas
Cons
- One of the slower broadband connections
- Depends heavily on proximity to provider’s location
Cable
Cable internet uses copper coaxial cables, the same way you get cable TV, to deliver electrical signals to a modem.
Pros
- Widely available
- Faster speeds than other broadband connections
Cons
- Can be expensive
- Not as fast as fiber
Fiber
Fiber internet transfers data as light signals through the use of fiber-optic cables made from thin glass or plastic wires.
Pros
- Fastest upload and download speeds available
- Can support heavy streaming
Cons
- Most expensive broadband option
- Not as widely available
Satellite
Satellite internet uses three satellite dishes to transmit signals: one dish connected to your modem, one in space, and one at an internet service provider’s hub.
Pros
- Global coverage
- Good for light internet usage
Cons
- Slower speeds than other broadband connections
- Not as secure as other connections
Broadband connection and speed also depend on what technology your internet service provider offers. Check out these popular providers and their top features.
CenturyLink
Cox
Frontier
Spectrum
Data sourced 7/28/2020. Offers and availability vary by location. Prices are subject to change and may require a contract.
How Has the Broadband Definition Changed?
The definition of broadband has changed over time. As technology advances, and broadband provider offerings and consumer demands change, the minimum speed needed to accommodate these improvements must also increase. In 2015, the FCC upped its broadband benchmark speeds from 4 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload (previously established in 2010) to 25 Mbps/3 Mbps — and it’s likely not the last time we’ll see this definition updated.
Broadband’s definition will continue to change as technology and consumer needs evolve. Broadband providers offer various technology types, speeds, and plans to complete your internet checklist. To see what internet service providers are available in your area, enter your zip code below!
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