Types of broadband

There are many different types of broadband available, and the information below will help you to understand the difference between each one.

• ADSL/Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line

  An Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a standard internet connection delivered over a copper phone line. It is possible to receive up to 24Mbps download over ADSL, however speeds could be variable due to the condition of the wires, distance from the cabinet, and any noise or interference on the telephone line. 

• Ethernet

  Ethernet is a technology used in a local area network (‘LAN’) to interconnect computers, carry voice or data services internally, and which can provide a dedicated connection to the internet. 

• FTTC/Fibre To The Cabinet

  Fibre-To-The-Cabinet (FTTC) is a fibre connection from the exchange to the local on-street cabinet, then a copper connection from the cabinet to end premise. This technology generally has a maximum download speed of up to 80Mbps (Superfast broadband speeds) however actual speeds can diminish with distance from the cabinet, and the network can be affected by poor weather.  

• FTTP/Fibre To The Premise

  Fibre-To-The-Premise (FTTP) is a 100% fibre connection all the way from the telephone exchange to the end premise. Generally, the distance to the premises does not affect the speed delivered and it is less susceptible to faults and poor weather. This is also sometimes referred to as full fibre. 

  FTTP can achieve Ultrafast and Gigabit broadband speeds from around 300Mbps to potentially over 1Gbps (depending on the provider).