6 Different Types Of Internet Connections Explained

different types of internet connections explained

Internet is available on almost every device, but have you wondered how your computer or phone connects to the world wide web. Various methods and technologies make the internet available to you conveniently and affordably. Each method a different infrastructure, and the underlying working mechanism is different too. 

Build Your Own Business With The Power Of The Internet

And then there is the internet speed which is different for every type of internet connection. Let’s talk about the various internet connection options available in the market and understand each of them. 

1. Dial-Up 

Dial-up is one of the oldest methods of connecting to the internet directly. This system uses a public switched telephone network that further links to an ISP (Internet Service Provider). Dial-up is the slowest internet connection type and has now been almost entirely replaced by other internet types. 

If you had a computer and an Internet connection in early 2000, you have used dial-up, which has most likely been replaced by a DSL or a cable connection years ago. 

2. DSL 

DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. This type of internet uses copper wires, which are similar to the phone lines. This type of internet connection uses the existing phone line to transport data at a high- bandwidth. It provides point-to-point dedicated, public network access and is quite popular with service providers and individuals who want a quick data transfer. 

A DSL is ideal for multimedia, video, etc if you have limited options or budget. A DSL is faster than dial-up modem connections. You can get a maximum speed of 3 Mbps. DSL is also almost extinct now in the world of internet connectivity. 

3. ADSL 

ADSL stands for Asymmetric Direct Subscriber Line. It is similar to DSL in its working mechanism but offers fasted download speeds compared to the upload speeds. 

ADSL is a common type of connection provided by internet providers and is ideal for all types of work except for gaming. Gamers need to upload huge files so they cannot work with a connection that offers excellent speed only one way. 

4. Cable 

Cable internet connection uses coaxial cables which are used the cable TV. This type of internet is known to have high-speed capabilities because coaxial cables carry data faster than copper wires used in DSL and ADSL. 

The downside of a cable comes in that one wire is shared by many households. Therefore, the speed of transmission gets reduced during peak hours and in populated areas. 

5. Satellite 

Satellite internet is a wireless internet that does not rely on wires and cables. This type of internet sends data to satellites through the air. It is then sent back to the destination using the same route. Most satellite internet providers have higher speeds and further reach than they used to just a few years ago.

Satellite internet is widely available even in rural areas. This type of internet service can be slow because of the distance that the data has to travel. In general, satellite internet connection is fast and can offer broadband speeds. Bad weather can potentially be a problem with satellite internet connections, although this is less of an issue than it used to be thanks to improved technology and more satellites. 

6. Fiber 

A fiber internet connection uses fiber optic cables instead of phone lines, coaxial cables, or copper wires. Fiber cables can handle a large amount of data at a time and are the fastest internet connection available. Fiber technology is entirely new; therefore, it is mostly available only in urban areas. But that hasn't stopped huge telecom companies and Big Tech from building thousands of miles of their own brand new fiber cables to increase speed and partially control the market. 

For a fiber connection, you will have to talk to a service provider and purchase an internet plan. A plan offers you are a fixed amount of monthly data on a monthly rental. You will also find programs that provide unlimited internet for a fixed fee. 

Internet Speed Increases 

Each year big tech companies and internet providers are working to improve internet connection speeds. Who know what speed will look like in the future with the newest cable installations, satellite, and other new tech developments.

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