resources
Broadband
Broadband - An internet connection that is always on and that delivers a higher bit rate (128kbps minimum or above) than a standard dial-up connection. It allows for a better online experience as pages load more quickly and you can download items faster. Various broadband technologies are used including:
- Cellular - technologies such as GPRS or WCDMA offered by Telecom, Vodafone and other wireless providers such as Whoosh
- ADSL (Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line) - called asynchronous because upload and download speeds usually differ. All ADSL currently offered is carried via Telecom's network - other ISP's resell ADSL service purchased wholesale from Telecom. Government regulations to "unbundle the local loop" and introduce "naked DSL" are designed to increase competition for ADSL by enabling companies to install their own hardware in exchanges and roadside cabinets.
- Cable (in New Zealand, cable is provided by Telstra and only in Wellington and Christchurch at present)
- Fibre (common in the CBD's of some cities)
- Frame-Relay
- Radio - radio links are used for point-to-point (line of sight) high-speed links
- Satellite - satellite is most commonly used for high-speed download, but can also be used for upload.
