The Quick Beginner’s Guide to Broadband in New Zealand

First introduced in the early 90s, high-speed internet, also known as broadband, has been consistently improving in New Zealand. In recent years, the government has pushed initiatives into actions to further improve internet services to urban centres but more importantly to rural areas. With information mostly available on the internet today, the time to get connected is now! Here are the basics that you need to know about broadband.

What is broadband?

During its early years, the internet was delivered to Kiwi homes through a wired phone line. While this was revolutionary for its time, it also meant that you would likely lose your connection or would hear dialling noises when you try to make phone calls; and this is still behind the fact that it was slow and unreliable. The introduction of broadband not only ended this from happening but also introduced a way to get connected wirelessly. With broadband, Kiwis can get a high-speed internet connection that can either be wired or wireless.

What are the different broadband connections?

Kiwis have an extensive number of ways that they can connect to the broadband services of the country. Here are a few.

Fibre Broadband

Nowadays, the most reliable and fastest way to get connected to the internet is through fibre broadband. It uses fibre optic cables which can transport large amounts of data over great distances without losing bandwidth. With great plans presented by the internet providers, Kiwis, especially those in the urban centres, can easily have fibre installed in their homes. Search for the fastest and most reliable fibre broadband plans available in your location.

VDSL Broadband

VDSL broadband is connected through copper cables, which are traditionally used for telephone lines. It is usually then connected to a roadside cabinet, before having it delivered to Kiwi households. The good news is that 60% of New Zealand can easily get connected and installed with this broadband. VDSL broadband plans are the most viable alternative if fibre broadband is not available in your area as these are easily available and provide just as fast internet speeds.

ADSL Broadband

Mostly connecting far-fetched areas, ADSL broadband is the earliest form of broadband that still services Kiwis. It also uses copper cables but doesn’t guarantee the fast and reliable internet speed as it connects households farthest from the cabinet. In due time, ADSL broadband will be the thing of the past. But for now, there are still ADSL broadband plans available for Kiwis in far rural areas.

Which broadband plan should I get?

With the variety of broadband plans that different internet providers offer to consumers, it is easy to get confused on which one suits your needs. When choosing to install broadband, consider the following:

Price

Getting your money’s worth with great service is indeed a consideration. Note factors such as installation charges, discounts, and extras in getting broadband service at home.

Location

Although most would love to have fast and reliable fibre broadband internet, not every area can have it in New Zealand. Check if you can get fibre connection in your area.

Contract

Some broadband plans have contracts, which may also termination fees if ever you choose to discontinue your plan. Better consider this, too, to avoid hassle later. The following are just the basic considerations when installing broadband in your household. But why has it complicated when you can have it quick and easy, free of charge, and tailored for you? What’s more, is that you can get the results in just under four minutes. With Glimp, you compare and connect to the best broadband plans of the different internet providers that suit your needs. Contact us now to know more!