What is Broadband

Fast Internet Access

For most people broadband simply means faster Internet access. Web pages display quicker, files transfer faster, websites with video become accessible and online horizons just seem to expand. But there's more to broadband than faster data transmission speeds.

Predictable Costs

Broadband also has an impact on cost. Monthly payments are usually fixed at a flat rate, regardless of use, because there's no meter running. That means that there are no nasty surprises in the bill at the end of the month. Considerable savings can also be made by subscribing to combined telephone and/or television services, and broadband.
The cost of broadband access to the Internet is now on a par with dialup costs and, with everything getting done faster and more conveniently, the whole Internet experience is less frustrating and costs less in the long run.

Speed Gains

Most broadband suppliers offer data transmission speeds starting at 1Mbps. That means that data travels at a speed of one million (M) bits of information per second (bps). Speeds are quoted as the maximum attainable so the rarely achieved speed of 56Kbps quoted for dialup modems (where K means a thousand) is only about one twentieth the speed of 1Mbps broadband. That's why everything happens much faster on broadband.
Some service providers offer starter broadband packages based on slower speeds but connection speeds overall are on the increase. Most providers offer a range of data speeds at different prices.
As you get used to using broadband and grow into it, your thirst for speed is likely to grow so most providers allow upgrades to higher speeds.

The availability and extensive use of Broadband by all companies in the Cork region is vital to long term growth and competitiveness of the region. It is vital for any company trading or planning to trade in international markets.
Mr. Brian Quinlan,
SW Regional Director, Enterprise Ireland