Understanding broadband deals

Long gone are the days of modem dial ups and slow internet connections. With people being increasingly time poor, consistently fast and reliable internet connections are expected. But if you need the internet installed in your home, you’re going to need to understand the differences in internet connections in order to choose the right broadband plan and provider for you.


Broadband refers to high speed and high data rate internet connections. No matter what you’re doing online, a broadband connection will allow you to do it more quickly. But not all broadband plans are the same, so make sure you consider these differences before signing your broadband contract.


- Speed and Data limits – Broadband speed refers to the rate of data submission. If this sounds confusing, it just refers to how quickly your internet access works. In Australia, any connection offering 1Mbps or more is considered broadband. The higher the speed, the faster your internet operates. With broadband, for example, you can open web pages and download files more quickly, as well as stream videos and music without hiccups. Broadband plans will also specify a data limit, which refers to the amount of data that can be transferred within a certain amount of time – usually over a month. Higher data rates will allow you to download more files, music and videos.



- Cost – The cost of your broadband plan usually depends on the speed and data limits you choose. Make sure that the cost of your broadband plan compliments your usage. If you don’t need high speed internet or data limits, then don’t pay for it. Broadband plans loosely vary in price from $25 - $125.



- Type of connection – You’ll also need to decide on what variation of connection you would like to have installed. ADSL and ADSL2+ work over a copper phone line and is the most common type of connection used in Australia. ADSL2+ generally offers higher speeds, but is not always available in regional areas. As there is little cost difference between the two, choose the faster ADSL2+ connection if it is available. Alternatively, a naked ADSL line does not require a phone line, and can present a cheaper option if you don’t need or have a home telephone line. If you want to download movies in minutes and need the fastest connection possible, choose a cable broadband connection, although you’ll have to check whether you live in a cable broadband supported area.


The key to choosing your broadband provider and plan is to compare broadband plans. Consider the differences between different offers and specials to determine which plan right for you. Broadband deals don’t have to be complicated – just do your research and you’ll have an internet connection that suits your budget and internet needs.