AOL: You also get a range of other services as part of the package, including home networking support so that several computers in your home can share your connections, McAfee® firewall protection and advanced spam filters, all at no extra cost.
There are numerous Broadband ISPs who constantly clamour for the attention of the public and businesses with new, exciting and ultimately confusing offers.
Recently with the introduction of `mobile Broadband` the already bulging rostra of Broadband services available to the modern consumer has been increased.
However, these adverts rarely make clear the positive and negative aspects of having mobile Broadband via a USB dongle as opposed to standard Ethernet or Wi-Fi connections provided through your existing BT or cable phone line.
Mobile phone networks have also begun offering mobile broadband services that can run concurrently with any mobile phone deals you might consider purchasing, and while this may seem like an ideal way to condense two services into one convenient contract, the sheer wealth of varying deals and tweaks which the various ISPs offer is something that should be carefully considered.
Each company also offers different business packages, and depending o! n the intended application of your connection the subtle differences in these need to be explained.
Static vs. dynamic IP addresses, port blocking and web proxy
For home broadband users, a dynamic (varying) IP is fine, as this allows access to the internet for basic browsing, downloading and instant messaging. However, as soon as an individual or business wishes to host servers or run applications that are accessible by others over the internet, a static (fixed) IP is necessary to allow external access.
For example, if you wish to run an email or file server from your business, to gain access when you are off premises you will require a static IP.
Many Broadband providers offer static IPs, but it is important to check the deal carefully to ensure that this is included, as it is often an optional extra. It is also important to check which ports you need available on your connection, as most ISPs will silently block certain ports that you need access to.
Additionally, it is worth checking the ability of the ISPs web proxy servers, depending on the speed and ease with which you want to use our connection, and whether it is possible! to choose different servers from the default should you wish.
All this information can be discovered by comparing the different deals available and checking the offers closely.
Plans, prices and contract length
It is imperative that great care is taken when choosing a Broadband ISP, because prices and services vary wildly, and the most expensive deal is not necessarily the best for your needs.
Contracts for Broadband can start from as little as 3 months commitment, but a majority have longer contract lengths. As is the case with most fixed term services, the longer you commit for the cheaper the cost, but if you are unsure or wary of committing for a period of up to 18 months then considering and comparing the differing lengths is essential.
It is also worth checking the kind of support offered by each ISP, as if something goes wrong you don`t want to be kept waiting by a slow email helpdesk or an inaudible off-shore helpline.
Connection types
The differences between USB and traditional Ethernet connection to the internet come down to freedom of access to the internet.
With a USB Broadband dongle provided by a mobile broadband ISP you can access the internet anywhere you can receive a 3G signal, and so the restrictions of wires and Wi-Fi ranges are eradicated.
However, as with any mobile technology, coverage is not universal and in areas of weak reception a sporadic connection is to be expected.
On the plus sides, download speeds are generally comparably to the equivalent wired deal, although this again will depend on your area and the amount you are willing to pay for your service.
Constant, fast Broadband access has become essential to every business, and comparing ISPs before you commit is essential.
