Internet

Which Type of Internet Connection is Right for You?

Internet connection options vary by Internet Service Provider and by region. Customers should consider some of the following factors before selecting an Internet package and Internet connection type: connection speed or bandwidth, cost, availability, reliability and convenience. In order to determine what Internet plan is right for you, we recommend you review the different types of Internet connections and connection speeds available on the market today.

Understanding The Differences Between Internet Connections

When determining which type of Internet speed and Internet connection type is right for you or your family, it's important to understand the distinction between each connection. In today's age, there are numerous ways to connect laptops, desktops, mobile phones, gaming consoles, e-readers and tablets to the Internet. Some of the most widely used Internet connections are described below.

MOBILE

Many cell phone and smartphone providers offer voice plans with Internet access. Mobile Internet connections provide good speeds and allow you to access the Internet.

WIFI HOTSPOTS

Wifi Hotspots are sites that offer Internet access over a wireless local area network (WLAN) by way of a router that then connects to an Internet service provider. Hotspots utilize WiFi technology, which allows electronic devices to connect to the Internet or exchange data wirelessly through radio waves. Hotspots can be phone-based or free-standing, commercial or free to the public.

BROADBAND \ FIBRE

This high-speed Internet connection is provided through either cable, fibre or telephone companies. One of the fastest options available, broadband Internet uses multiple data channels to send large quantities of information. The term broadband is shorthand for broad bandwidth. Broadband Internet connections such as DSL and cable are considered high-bandwidth connections. Although many DSL connections can be considered broadband, not all broadband connections are DSL.

DSL

DSL, which stands for Digital Subscriber Line, uses existing 2-wire copper telephone line connected to one's home so service is delivered at the same time as landline telephone service. Customers can still place calls while surfing the Internet.

SATELLITE (Starlink)

In certain areas where fibre broadband connection is not yet offered, a satellite Internet option may be available. Starlink offers better than wireless access, Starlink is ideally suited for areas where connectivity has been unreliable or completely unavailable. People across New Zealand and more specifically Northland are using Starlink to gain access to commercial grade internet.

High-Speed low latency internet Using advanced satellites in a low orbit, Starlink enables video calls, online gaming, streaming, and other high data rate activities that historically have not been possible with satellite internet. Users can expect to see download speeds between 100 Mb/s and 200 Mb/s and latency as low as 20ms in most locations.