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What are the different types of broadband Internet connection, and which type is best for me?

Odds are that you'll choose an ADSL connection for Broadband as it's widely available and easy to set up. Cable might be another option if it's available in your area. Wireless is a good option if you don't have/want a phone line and don't have cable TV. it also depends upon availability. So,, ADSL, Cable or Wireless?

The truth is, one isn't better than another and it really depends more on where you live and the availability. So, your choice will probably be based upon the deal offered and availability in your area. Using getbroadband.ie you can compare services in your area and make your selection and sign up at our site.

The main types of broadband Internet connection are:

ADSL - Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line

ADSL coverage is available to most of the Irish population. As such, it is the most likely choice unless you happen to live somewhere remote, or don't have a phone line.

ADSL broadband is delivered through your existing Eircom telephone line, using a special modem or router. There is no need to have an additional telephone line installed and you will be still be able to make and receive calls whilst surfing the web.

When you have an ADSL connection it is necessary to fit small devices called microfilters to all your telephone sockets. You need to plug them in to prevent the ADSL signal from interfering with your voice calls. Typically your ISP will provide you one or two microfilters and, if you need any more they only cost a few euros.

Although you must have a Eircom telephone line, there are many ADSL Internet providers to choose from, each offering a selection of different deals.

Cable

If you already have cable TV, or if you live in an area served by a cable operator, then a broadband cable Internet connection may be an option for you.

A cable Internet connection requires a special modem, which is connected to your cable along with your cable TV box (if you have one). Most cable companies offer packages that include telephone and TV channels as well as a broadband Internet connection.

As with ADSL, cable Internet providers usually offer a selection of broadband deals for different requirements.

Wireless

Wireless is strongly growing in popularity. It's coverage is very good in the main cities in Ireland.

For a wireless Internet connection, a small antenna is installed on the outside of your house (much like a TV aerial) and this sends signals to a connection point on the inside, which in turn is connected to your computer. No telephone line of any kind is required.

Wireless connections are symetric which means that they send information at the same speed in both directions which is different to ADSL and would be very useful if you need to send a lot of information to the internet.

SDSL - Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line

Some providers also offer SDSL services. An SDSL connection is very similar to an ADSL connection. The difference is that ADSL can download data from the Internet faster than it can upload data, while SDSL is just as fast at uploading as downloading.

But since SDSL requires an extra telephone line, separate from the one you use for voice calls, SDSL is not a popular option for the home user. SDSL is really just a specialist option for some businesses that need to send large amounts of data.

LLU - Local Loop Unbundling

LLU is a method by which a service provider can offer an ADSL or SDSL service without using Eircom's exchange systems. This can allow LLU providers to be more competitive with the prices and features they offer. In all other respects these services are equivalent to the corresponding ADSL or SDSL connections described above. Magnet Networks and BT currently offer these services and are expanding their offerings quite quickly.