The internet has become a need of the era as a large number of our day-to-day activities depend on it. It allows us to communicate globally, transfer data, entertain ourselves and many more. With the advancements in technology, internet connections have seen phenomenal evolution and have become more versatile, reliable and faster than ever.
In this blog post, we have explained multiple types of internet connections that are being utilised in the current era. Read till the end to learn some exciting facts about them.
Types of Wired Internet Connections
Ethernet
Ethernet connection connects your computer or laptop to the internet via an ethernet cable, which generally comes with an RJ-45 connector. This type of network is highly secure and provides a dedicated speed and stable internet. It uses different types of cables to establish the connection based on the speed and bandwidth requirements.
These types of connections are generally used for desktops, gaming consoles, smart TVs and other devices that require a consistent and high-speed internet connection.
However, the process of its network cable installation is complex and requires professional technicians to install and configure the connection.
Powerline Adapters
Powerline adapters utilise the existing electrical connections of your house to transmit data and information over the internet. This type of connection requires 2 different adapters to connect your device to the internet. This is how it works:
- One adapter is connected to the router via an ethernet cable and is inserted in a nearby electrical socket.
- The second adapter is connected to the device via an ethernet cable and is inserted into a nearby electrical socket.
Powerline Adapters also offer a stable connection and can be more convenient as compared to traditional ethernet networks. However, the quality of your house’s electrical wiring can impact the internet speed.
Type of Wireless Internet Connection
Wi-Fi
Wireless Fidelity, or Wi-Fi, uses radio waves to connect different devices to the internet wirelessly. It uses a wireless access point or router to broadcast signals, which helps different devices connect and communicate with each other. Its installation and configuration can be complicated, and you may be required to hire a WiFi installation Engineer for that purpose.
Mobile Hotspot
Mobile hotspot allows mobile devices like cell phones and laptops to create their own Wi-Fi network that lets other devices connect to the internet. It is a high-speed connection that uses a cellular data connection to communicate with other devices and provide internet access to them.
This is a highly modern form of networking, and almost all of the latest mobile devices are outfitted with the hardware that allows them to become a mobile hotspot. However, the connection speed depends upon the data plan and the network coverage in your area.
Types of Broadband Internet Connections
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
DSL or Digital subscriber line uses telephone lines to provide a faster and more secure internet connection and transmit data. This internet connection is a modern and more efficient form of traditional dial-up connection and offers high speeds and bandwidth.
DSL also allows you to access the internet and make phone calls on the same line at the same time. However, the speed of the connection depends on the distance from the office of your ISP and becomes prone to a little data corruption over longer distances.
Fibre Optic
Fibre optic broadband is an extremely fast and low latency internet connection that utilises light to transfer the data at a phenomenal speed. It is highly suitable for highly demanding applications such as streaming and gaming.
It uses thin optical fibres that transmit the data in the form of light pulses. They are highly reliable connections and can support simultaneous uploads and downloads.
Fixed Wireless
Fixed wireless broadband is a wireless broadband connection that uses radio waves to provide internet access to a fixed location. It uses an antenna to communicate with a nearby wireless tower to establish an internet connection. Although it offers decent speed, it can be affected by external obstacles, such as buildings and trees.
Mobile Broadband
Mobile broadband uses cellular data to grant internet access to your mobile devices. This type of broadband requires a data plan from the cellular provider and can provide a fast internet connection even in remote areas. However, its speed can decline based on the network coverage in the area.
Cable Internet
Cable internet uses coaxial cables and provides a faster internet connection as compared to the DSL. It is readily available in many areas and uses the same cables as cable television. However, its connection speed can decline based on the number of users who are sharing the same line.
