Stands for (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) and is the most common form of broadband used today. Asymmetrical means that the download speeds are quicker than the upload speeds. One of the biggest benefits of ADSL is that you are always connected to the internet. Because ADSL is using the same line as your telephone you are able to use your telephone at the same time.

This service is provided by a few companies but can be very expensive and requires the installation of a satellite dish. Most of theses services are a one way link which means you can download at high speed but to upload you would require a dial up or faster connection. Two ways links are available but at a very high price and therefore makes it less attractive to consumers.

Stands for (Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line) this means that the download speeds and upload speeds are the same. A short fall of SDSL is that because of the bandwidth requirements telephony is not supported and also an engineering visit would be required to install a socket.

Benefits of SDSL are:

• send and receive data at the same speed
• video streaming and videoconferencing
• link sites at high speed
• reduce costs
• host mail servers and websites

Now becoming a common part of the broadband revolution. Instead of having a broadband modem or router you can now have a wireless router which utilises the normal broadband provided by your land line and then converts your broadband into radio signals. This then enables you to network other wireless devices and use the broadband access.

Some Service Providers also have broadband enabled Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) hotspots, usually airports, cafes, hotels and large public buildings. Even some areas where conventional broadband through your land line is not available have wireless aerials to provide broadband.

Wi-Fi is fast and efficient especially if you need to transfer large data files such as music or video or image-rich documents.

By using a wireless enabled Laptop you can then gain access to these services. Some access is free and others a charge for these services will apply.

You are most likely to come across Cable companies in large towns and cities. Cable providers started with TV but are now able to provide telephony and internet access. Due to the expense of providing cable, this means of accessibility is still not available to may areas.

This service is provided by some of the larger Mobile Service Providers. For consumers with laptops, access to the internet can be obtained by plugging in a PCMCIA card (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) but again this can end up as an expensive alternative.