Broadband Guide

The term broadband refers generally to information carrying capacity that is capable of high speeds and multiple

media types such as text, video, and audio. When laptop computing and data or Internet access is desired, connecting

to a broadband network will provide the best overall user experience. There are several fixed (wired) and wireless

broadband networks that can be used for high speed Internet.

Fixed

Cable and digital subscriber line (DSL) are the most common forms of broadband Internet access using a wired connection.

Each requires a subscription with a provider and direct wireless connectivity if using DSL, as well as a modem if using cable.

The speedier of the two is cable in most cases.

Wireless

There are various forms of wireless broadband networks, however, accessing each depends on the capabilities of your

laptop. Newer laptops feature built in wireless network capabilities, whereas this capability can be added to older

laptop computers using a usb dongle (sometimes called a “stick”) or an insertable card.

Qualcomm has developed and introduced an embedded chip with built in mobile broadband called Gobi, which

works with nearly every cellular carrier worldwide. More information on Qualcomm Gobi can be found here.

Wireless LAN

Most people set up a wireless local area network (wlan) in their home or offices. This network typically features

WiFi in one of the 80211 standards. This type of wireless network is also commonly found in public settings such

as cafes, hotels, airports and the like.

Wireless WAN

Use of a wireless wide area network is emerging as a popular way for broadband Internet access in both fixed

and mobile usage. These networks are a form of cellular broadband increasing in speed from 3G, to the emerging

WiMAX and Long Term Evolution (LTE) formats.