Advice and Help

What different broadband connections are available?

There are a few different types of connections. Whichever one you use, usually depends on where you live and what your broadband provider can offer.

ADSL - Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line
The majority of broadband connections in Northern Ireland are connected via ADSL. This is where you simple connect to the internet via your phone line.
Cable
If you already receive cable TV, then there is a good chance you can also receive broadband via your cable connection. Contact your local service provider for more details, or click here for more information.
Wireless
Although wireless is not yet available in Northern Ireland, it will be arriving in Belfast soon. With a wireless a connection, an aerial is placed outside your house and sends and receives signals to your computer. No leads required.
Satellite
If you live in a remote area and can not receive a connection from any of the methods above then a satellite connection may be an option for you. Satellite is available throughout the whole of Northern Ireland, however it can be expensive to set up and install.
SDSL - Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line
SDSL is very similar to ADSL. The main difference being that ADSL is fast at downloading; SDSL is fast at downloading and uploading. A number of providers in Northern Ireland offer SDSL.
LLU - Local Loop Unbundling
This is a service where a provider can offer you a ADSL or SDSL connection without the use of a BT Exchange. This may lead to a better priced service from the LLU provider. However, the other aspects of the service (e.g. speeds) is normally the same as an ADSL or SDSL connection.