Broadband is a common term for a high bandwidth internet connection. A standard modem like you are probably using at the moment will connect at a maximum speed of around 45 Kbps (or Kilo bits per second). Broadband, however, will be available in packages ranging from 150 Kbps up to 2,000 Kbps (or 2 Mbps). The latter is over 40 times faster than at present.

As well as a faster access/download speed, you no longer stop your telephone working while you are on the internet. You can make or receive calls at any time. This is particularly useful for busy families or businesses and should reduce the amount of arguments or missed calls.

In order for us to enjoy Broadband internet the exchange in Worfield needs to be upgraded to deal with connections at these higher speeds. Once upgraded we will be able to buy our Broadband package off any Internet Service Provider (ISP) we choose. It may be that you are happy with your existing ISP and wish to upgrade your current package to one of their own Broadband packages if available. Or you could shop around for a cheaper package, there are many available, and the list of ISP’s is growing fast.

Whatever you choose, surfing the net will be a great deal more pleasureable than at present. How many of you have sat there watching the little blue line slowly edging it’s way across the screen - that is after you have spent 10 minutes or so trying to dial and log on. A two minute job often takes half an hour. So lets look forward to the advantages that Broadband has to offer.