Summary Presentation

Broadband – focus on ADSL
an Overview

by Tim Adams
May 2004

Agenda
1. What is it?
2. Uses & benefits
3. What do I need?
4. Security
5. What then?
6. Package
7. Speed
8. Contention

1. What is it?
• Fast internet – 10 times typical dialup speed
• ‘Always on’ internet connection
• Use telephone at same time – same line
• Fixed monthly charge
• Various packages from many ISP
• ADSL only via BT (other technologies include cable, satellite, wireless etc)

2. Uses & benefits
• Always on – instant access/no dialup
• Email & instant messaging
• Surfing without frustrating delay
• Download songs, animations – even films
• Home working – with access to corporate networks
• Play interactive games
• Internet radio & services – with no interruptions

3. What do I need? ADSL
• A reasonably modern computer:
– Ideally say: 128mb+ memory, 10gb+ hard disc, Win98+, USB port,
• A new Broadband ‘Modem’ – may be offered free by ISP for single computer use with USB.
• or a Router – allows networking of more than one computer (wired or wireless). Requires network card in PC if wired. Wireless PC card or USB adapter (easier!) for wireless. Ensure it is combined with modem.
• Filters for each telephone socket – may be offered free by ISP

4. Security
• Ensure you install and regularly update:
– Firewall (e.g. ZoneAlarm - free)
– Anti-virus software (e.g. AVG – Grisoft- free)
– Microsoft updates/patches
- Anti-spyware/adware
• Some packages will include firewall and/or anti-virus software
• Make regular backups of your data

5. What then?
• Don’t order too far in advance of RFS date as the offers and hardware keep changing
• If you have a split DACS line – it will have to be removed
• Choose package
• Order service from any ISP
• Self-install – filters and modem/router
• Go!

6. Package
• Choices will all effect price – watch also for special offers e.g. free hardware (single computer USB modem), firewall, anti-virus, half-price initial months, initial connection/setup etc.
• No ‘Something for Nothing’!
• Is VAT included?
• Minimum contract period – preferably choose 1 month so that you can change e.g. if upgrade needed
• Maximum downloads per month?
• True broadband means 512kbs and faster (250 may be sufficient)
• All ADSL ISPs use BT telephone lines

7. Speed
• Dial-up – typically 56kbs max
• Low-cost ‘broadband’ 150kbs
• Caps include: check if it is ‘always on’, max connect time, max usage inc. up & download, and if telephone calls can be made at same time. A Windows service pack could be 100mb+ download!
• Broadband: if under 3km cable distance from exchange 512kbs, 1mb or 2mb download
• Broadband: if over 3km & under 6km cable distance from exchange 512kbs download
• Upload speed is 256kbs - ADSL

8. Contention
• For a typical home user it is not an issue
• It’s the number of users connected to the same DSLAM in the exchange
• It may effect your actual download speed
• But choose a cheaper, high contention first & upgrade if you have problems. Unless high speed at all times is vital.