Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Home Networking

Chapter 4. Choosing a Broadband Internet Access Technology

IN THIS CHAPTER

• Understanding Broadband Internet Access Types

• Cable Internet

• DSL

• Satellite

• Wireless

• Powerline (BPL)

• Choosing the Right Service for You

• Self-installing DSL

• Testing Your Broadband Connection

Sharing a broadband Internet connection is one of the leading reasons to build a home network. However, some broadband Internet technologies are better choices than others. In this chapter, you learn about the major options and how to choose the right one for you.

Understanding Broadband Internet Access Types

What is broadband Internet access? Recall from Chapter 2, “Building Blocks of the Home Network,” that, typically, broadband Internet access refers to Internet access that has the following features: ...