Broadband guide Getting a good broadband deal is made easy with firsthelpline.com.  We can help you find the right one for you, and help you make an application online in minutes.  If you’re not sure of something or you’re confused by some of the jargon, there’s plenty of help and information on the website to make sure you’re fully informed before you apply.

Broadband jargon buster (D-G)

Data

A general term for information sent backwards and forwards over the internet, whether this is a web page, an email, a music file or anything other type of electronic file.

Dial-up Internet

Dial-up is the more traditional way of connecting to the internet.  Your computer needs to be connected to a phone line and dials your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to get access.  Each time a connection is needed, the ISP needs to be called by your computer.  The connection tends to be much slower than broadband internet, and ties up your phone line.

Download

Transferring data from the internet to your computer is referred to as downloading, where you receive information such as a web page or music file.  The download speed tends to be measured in Kilobits per second (Kbps) or Megabits per second (Mbps).  The reverse process of transmitting information from your computer back to the internet, such as posting a photo on a web page, is referred to as uploading, and upload speeds tend to be much slower.

Download Restriction

Many providers offer broadband packages that place a cap or restriction on the amount of data you can download onto your PC.  Some will let you occasionally let you go over the limit provided it isn’t by much or done frequently, some will start to charge extra, while others may take extreme measures and block your internet access.

Email

Electronic Mail or Email are electronic messages usually made up of text and sent backwards and forwards to different recipients over the internet.

Ethernet

An Ethernet is the standard method for connecting computers, printers, and other devices in a single location.  Whereas the internet connects remote equipment, the Ethernet tends to connect equipment in one building.

Exchange

An exchange is the service area that your broadband and home phone service is located in.  Each exchange serves thousands of phone lines in the local area.  You may not be eligible for certain broadband packages where you live for example, because your local exchange has not yet been enabled to receive it.

Firewall

A firewall is an internet security device that acts as a barrier and stops threats to a computer or other devices connected to the internet.  A correctly configured firewall will stop attacks from potentially harmful computer viruses and other malicious threats.

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