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In simple
terminology, Broadband can be defined as ‘always on’
internet connection with a minimum download speed of 256
kbps. Broadband internet is normally known as just
broadband and it allows users to access the internet at
relatively high speeds. Most of the internet
applications like chat, email, and downloads are
executed much faster than a cable connection or low
speed dial-up.
Users can also use additional options like net telephony
in a much convenient manner. High speed of broadband
also proves quite handy in watching video clips or
listening to live audio on internet. Broadband has
steadily got rid of earlier usual problems like
distortion and delay.
The main difference between
Dial-up modems and broadband is of speed and quality. Dial-up
modems generally used to provide maximum bitrate of 56 kbit/s
(kilobits per second) whereas broadband technologies provide at
least double of this speed and that too without affecting
telephone use. Definition of broadband includes minimum speed
ranging up from 64 kbit/s up to 1.0 Mbit/s but in general, the
speed factor is determined on download parameter which must be
equal to or faster than 256 kbit/s.
DSL and cable modems are considered as the standard broadband
technologies in most locations. However, with improvement in
technology, VDSL and having optical fiber connections closer to
the subscribers’ home and work places has become a common
feature. Broadband internet in India has registered phenomenal
growth in the last few years.
Many private firms are offering broadband connection but the
real change occurred after India’s telecom behemoth Bharath
Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) started providing net connection.
BSNL began with dial-up connection but it couldn’t achieve the
desired result. Initial players in Indian internet world were;
BSNL, VSNL, Satyam Online, Dishnet and Matra Online.
But things changed drastically with entry of private players
like Reliance, Tata and Bharati etc. These are known to provide
fast and reliable connection with ever decreasing rates. Yet,
considering India’s huge population, broadband penetration is
quite low and many initiatives are taken by government and
private firms to increase the broadband penetration in every
nook and corner of India..
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