• Permanent connection. Once your logged on with a broadband service the computer is online until the computer is turned off again. To log on you simply open your web browser - similarly, if you open your email application you will connect to the internet automatically and stay connected until you shut the computer down.
   
• Broadband enables both telephone calls and your permanent internet connection to operate on the same phone line simultaneously. This means that there is no longer any need for any users to have two lines - one for internet and one for voice and fax calls.

Internet Service Provider
An Internet service provider is a business or organization that sells to consumers access to the Internet and related services. In the past, most ISPs were run by the phone companies. Now, ISPs can be started by just about any individual or group with sufficient money and expertise. In addition to Internet access via various technologies such as dial-up and they may provide a combination of services including Internet transit, domain name registration and hosting, web hosting, and colocation.

Digital Subscriber Line
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) technology delivers high-speed internet access to your home or business. It's fast. It's always on. It saves you money.

Broadband cost
The cost of a broadband connection has fallen dramatically over the last couple of years and is now at a price point comparable to dial up access.

The monthly fee is in addition to your normal BT line rental. There are lots of broadband service providers to choose from and there are always new deals on offer. Many now bundle in phone calls too.

Phone line for Broadband or DSL
In most cases an extra phone line is not necessary.

ISP packages
Extras vary depending on which broadband company you sign up with, but generally most will offer free email addresses, free web site hosting space, phone support, online support, free modems, free installation, software and much more!

Dial-up
You can almost always be assured that you will receive a consistently faster internet connection and downloads with a broadband ISP.