ADSL Broadband Explained

If you are new to broadband you’re in the right place. We’ll introduce you to ADSL broadband and explain how you can find the right broadband plan for your needs.

Here you will learn:

• What ADSL broadband is
• The benefits of ADSL broadband
• What to look for in a broadband plan
• How to get connected

What is ADSL broadband?

ADSL Broadband is a high-speed Internet service (up to 140 times faster than dial up Internet) which uses an existing telephone line to connect to the Internet. ADSL1 is the most widely available type which is up to 140 times faster than dial up Internet. ADSL2+ can be much faster again and is the popular choice in areas that are ASDL2+ enabled.

OK, ADSL broadband is many times faster than dial up – but what are some other benefits?

The benefits of ADSL broadband

• Permanent always-on connection to the Internet
• Don’t need to dial in to connect to the Internet - which means you don’t pay the cost of a local call each time you log on. Saving you big dollars
• Doesn’t tie up your phone line – with ADSL broadband you can talk on the phone and surf the Internet at the same time
• Uses your existing phone line – so there is no need to pay for an additional phone line
• You can share your broadband Internet connection with multiple computers
• Plus, best of all – broadband speed means you can upload and download files quickly, enjoy the latest online gaming, video and music streaming

What to look for in a broadband plan

Understanding broadband and choosing the right plan is simple once you know the basics.

Broadband plans have 4 main components:

• Line speed
• Download allowance
• ADSL modem
• Agreement term

Line speed — This determines how fast you can send and receive information over your Internet connection. The faster the line speed the less time it takes to download information and email attachments. Faster plans will allow you to see websites, view and download pictures, video and music clips and play online games quicker and easier than with slower plans.

Line speed is measured in kilobits (k). Netspace currently offers ADSL1 line speeds of 256k (entry), 512k (fast), 1500k (faster) and 8000k (fastest). We also offer ADSL2+ with line speeds up to 20,000k. Regular dial up speed is 56k. Compare the average time it takes to download content on different line speeds:

Connection & Line Speed	Time to load and average web page
Dial up (56k)	28 seconds
ADSL broadband 256k	6-7 seconds
ADSL broadband 512k	3-4 seconds
ADSL broadband 1500k	1-2 seconds
ADSL broadband 8000k	0-1 second
	Download a 4 minute MP3 (encoded at 128Kbps)
Dial up (56k)	10 minutes
ADSL broadband 256k	2 minutes
ADSL broadband 512k	1 minute
ADSL broadband 1500k	20 seconds
ADSL broadband 8000k	4 seconds

Please note these times are designed as an approximate guide only. Times will vary depending on the size of the webpage, MP3 recording quality and network protocols.

Download allowance — Most broadband plans will usually include a set monthly download allowance. When you use your Internet connection including viewing website, viewing or downloading pictures, movies, music or your email, you will be contributing to your monthly downloads. The more often you do these activities the higher the download allowance you will need.

Some ISPs measure uploads as well as downloads in your monthly traffic allowance – Netspace only measures downloads.

With the exception of Starter Plans once you reach your download limit your download speed is slowed to dial up speed for the remainder of the month – this is called ‘shaping’ or being shaped.

ADSL modem — You will need an ADSL modem to use your ADSL broadband connection. Netspace can supply an ADSL modem with your connection or you can bring you own (BYO) modem.

Most ADSL modems available in Australia will work with Netspace broadband however we can only guarantee compatibility with the modems we recommend.

You can choose between 2 types:

ADSL Modem Type	Description
Standard	Will connect one computer (PC or Mac) to the Internet via a single Ethernet port and is a good choice for first time users.
Wireless	A 4 port modem/router with added wireless functionality, so you can be connected and move freely around the house with a wireless enabled laptop or desktop computer – no untidy cables.

Agreement term — Netspace offers a range of agreements from 0 months up to 24 months. Generally connection and modem cost decreases with the length of your agreement. In short, the longer your agreement the less you pay to get connected.

How to get connected

OK, I’ve chosen an ADSL broadband plan – how do I join Netspace?

You can apply online by clicking “Ready to Join”. We'll guide you through a simple 3 step process where you will choose your plan, modem and agreement length, nominate the phone number you would broadband on (we’ll check the line to confirm that broadband is available) and then provide your contact and payment details. We'll do the rest. If you get stuck, you can call us at any step along the way on 1300 360 025.

Or if you prefer to apply via fax or mail, you can download the ADSL broadband application form now.

If you have a question about Netspace broadband, try our ADSL broadband FAQs. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, you can give us a call or send us an email.