Broadband is simply a faster version of the original dial up method of connecting to the internet.

The most common form of broadband is ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) which is an upgraded home telephone line.

The old dial up internet connections used existing telephone lines and therefore the speed and capacity was poor.

ASDL, on the other hand, allows data to be converted more efficiently over a wider frequency range enabling much faster for downloading.

As well as ASDL, broadband can also be obtained through a cable line, wireless networks, satellite or even mobile networks.

A broadband line remains constantly connected so there is no need to dial up each time.

This means that you can make telephone calls at the same time as you are browsing online.

According to BT, over 99% of UK households can now receive broadband services.

Only a few remote areas remain where customers are forced to use the considerably slower dial-up method of connecting to the internet.