How to choose the right broadband for your needs

Broadband is a magnificent tool for internet users. It is fast, reliable, and users are able to download a vast amount of material compared to the old dial – up option. But with the vast array of technologies and plans available now, what are the best options for choosing the right broadband for your needs?

Your broadband needs

Before looking at the array of broadband plans available, it is important to audit your needs.

• How many emails and other messages do you use per week?
• How many videos, songs or other media files will you need to download per week?
• Do you use the net for gaming? This takes up a lot of download capacity
• Are you a business or home user? Businesses will find that most providers offer options that are particularly well suited to them
• Are you the only person who will be using the net? If not, include the download needs of other family members as well

After assessing these features of your use, you will fall into one of these categories.

• Light user (you check a few emails and surf the net from time to time)
• Average user
• Family user
• Gamer (regular internet based gaming)
• Heavy downloader (includes downloading media files like songs, pictures, games and videos)
• Business

Considering your use before finding a plan will mean that you can choose the right level of downloads so that you neither run out nor pay for capacity you are not using.

Choosing the right type of broadband

The internet can be accessed in several ways.

• Dial up is slow, but cheaper. It means that you can’t use the phone and net at the same time. Broadband is now the means of choice for most users
• ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line), ADSL 2, ASDL2plus and VDSL are faster options which allow a lot of downloads, depending on the plan you choose. DSL options are delivered via cables, usually your telephone cable, but allow you to use the phone simultaneously as the net
• Naked DSL is cheaper, but boots your telephone off the line. However, you can access telephone calls through internet based VoIP, which is cheaper anyway
• Wireless is a little more expensive, but has the advantage of portability. With wireless you can pick up the internet wherever you can find reception
• Satellite broadband is wireless broadband that is relayed via geostationary satellites. It is a little more expensive and less reliable than land based wireless
• This government website has more information on broadband options; http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/broadband

There are a number of broadband options to choose from. However, the cable based systems (the DSL options) are excellent for value, reliability and speed. Wireless offers convenience and portability, and its speed and reliability are improving rapidly.

The right broadband for your needs

To choose the best broadband for your needs, consider your usage, and then the way in which you would like broadband delivered.  Then check out the range of options available, perhaps on a comparison site, and make the choice that best fits your needs.