What equipment is
needed for broadband Internet access?
A computer with a NIC card
(i.e. network interface card, Ethernet card) and
a broadband modem is normally required for
high-speed Internet access. The type of modem
needed depends on the type of broadband services
that is used.
What is a NIC Card?
A NIC card is a card that plugs
into the computer's motherboard and costs around
$25. Most new computers are sold with NIC cards
included.
What is a broadband
modem?
A broadband modem is a device
that connects to the computer’s NIC card and is
required to handle the rapid rate of data
transfer from the Internet. Broadband modems
cost under $100. Many broadband service
providers either include a modem in their
monthly packages or charge the subscriber a
nominal monthly rental fee.
Will the modem in
my computer support high-speed Internet access?
Most modems that come with
computers are designed for dial-up Internet
access and for sending faxes over the phone
lines. They will not support a high-speed
Internet connection.
My new computer has
a DSL modem. Can I use that?
Some Dells, Compaqs and other
PCs are now being shipped with in-built DSL
capability. This internal modem is likely to be
a G.lite DMT modem. Unfortunately, existing DSL
networks are in varying states of G.lite
compatibility. Your chosen DSL ISP can advise
you whether or not your G.lite modem can be
used.
Do I need a Network
Interface Card?
If you use an internal/USB DSL
modem you do not need to have a NIC card
installed.
Will my old PC be
fast enough for broadband?
Regardless of what type of PC
you use, you will experience a dramatic speed
increase with broadband. If you plan to view
video on demand or use other memory and
processor hungry applications, you may want to
upgrade your PC. Most websites, however, can be
enjoyed with a slower PC.
Can a broadband
modem be connected to multiple computers?
Yes. To provide concurrent
high-speed Internet access to two or more
computers, either an Ethernet hub or a router
should be connected between the broadband modem
and each of the computers. Hubs and routers are
inexpensive and are typically designed to
network four or five computers.
What software is
required for broadband Internet access?
No special software is required
to use a broadband connection.
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