Is the internet service in your home spotty, slow, and just simply unreliable? Perhaps it’s time to pick a new internet plan. There are several different ways to get fast and affordable internet service at home. All you need to do is pick the right type of broadband plan for your lifestyle. Let’s dive into the range of internet plans:

The Four Types of Broadband For Homes

When the Internet first became available, everyone resorted to dial-up modems which were linked to your home telephone line. While dial-up hasn’t completely gone away as more than 21 million people still use it, a majority of at-home internet now functions via a broadband connection.

The phrase broadband internet is used everywhere; however, it’s not a technical one. Instead, broadband implies any kind of always-on internet connection. It’s also referred to as high-speed Internet and comes in four categories:

Cable internet

Cable providers offer internet services to many people. The broadband connection is via the same coaxial cables which provide cable TV and probably a home phone line. Speeds vary significantly according to location and other factors, but you can usually have speeds ranging from 3 Mbps to over 100.

Direct Subscriber Line

Typically known as DSL, this internet service makes use of your phone line. However, this isn’t the same as dial-up Internet. DSL is just marginally slower than a majority of cable internet plans and yet is fast enough to play games online, stream Netflix, and engage in other web activities.

Satellite

Satellite internet services don’t need any phone lines, cables, or other wires running to your home. Instead, the Internet is beamed straight onto a tiny satellite attached to your house. Speeds may vary around 15 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload.

FiOS

Fiber Optic Service utilizes light-speed technology to provide the fastest internet plan available. Pulses of lights are sent down thin strands of glass by a fiber optic network. These pulses of light move at 186,000 miles per second to your house. Your home computer is able to read them after their conversion into electrical impulses.

Picking the Best Home Internet Plan

Choose a fiber optic service for the most reliable, fastest plan. However, a FiOS isn’t necessary if you only use the Internet for activities that aren’t data-heavy.

In mid-sized cities or towns, you’ll be able to find at least one provider of cable internet or DSL.

If you stay in a rural area, a satellite connection may be your best bet for high-speed Internet, even though it can be extremely expensive.