Many of us have no idea what broadband really is; all we know is that our Internet works and that is where our interest ends. However, should we decide to upgrade our Internet service, it is very helpful to understand what broadband means when we discuss options with our ISP (Internet Service Provider). To put it in the very simplest of terms, broadband is the word used when referencing any type of high speed Internet connection.

Although many features of dial-up and broadband are similar, such as both systems may utilize connections through a phone line as well as both systems do use a modem, the main difference between the two types of Internet connection is that broadband is always connected and ready, whereas dial-up quite literally must dial up to establish connection.

Another difference between dial-up and broadband is the speed at which information is transmitted. For instance, for dial-up to load an average webpage it takes about 14 seconds. Entry level broadband speed allows the page to load in 1.4 seconds, or about 10x faster than dial-up.  A good over all broadband speed for general use is the 1mb speed option.

Rates for broadband service are normally charged as a flat rate per month for unlimited use. Dial-up services may limit minutes to be used per month and charge for overages.

There you have it, the significance and meaning of the word broadband. Let’s hope that it will prove helpful when you decide to upgrade or subscribe to a new service. Maybe now you will have a much better idea what you are signing up for!