In the telecommunications industry, there are a lot of words and terms that can be a little confusing to the everyday consumer. Here at Broadband Compare, we are all about helping Kiwis make a fully informed choice about their broadband plan. Part of making an informed decision is knowing the definitions of terms in the world of broadband.
So, let’s unravel the meaning of speed, latency, and bandwidth.
In terms of broadband, the speed refers to the amount of time it takes for data to transmit to and from your device. Fibre optic cables use light to transmit data and there are generally various speeds that broadband providers will offer to their customers. It is important to consider your online activities and household internet usage and needs when determining which internet speed to choose.
Fibre 50: Also known as starter fibre, or 50/ 100 Mbps, this speed suits households of 1 to 2 people who only use the internet for social media, emails, online banking, and basic video streaming.
Fibre 300: This is a lot faster than fibre 50, and it is a great choice for larger households who have lots of devices used at the same time, or users who stream videos, play video games, and browse the internet.
Fibre 900: Perfect for a household of multiple gamers, fibre 900 is an extra fast option and should only be considered if you have a large household with lots of people working and studying from home, given its higher price point. It also supports 4K Ultra HD video streaming and gaming.
Hyperfibre: The new generation of fibre, coming with ultra fast speeds, is only ideal for households of multiple gamers who have wired consoles, and those who stream 4K videos and games.
Latency is very similar to speed. It essentially refers to how long it takes for your device to send and receive data, based on the internet speed you are connected to. Latency is important for getting and sending data in “real-time,” meaning that you can have a video call with a colleague without experiencing delay in communication, or if you are a gamer, your messages will be sent in real time so you can defeat the enemy with your teammates.
Bandwidth refers to how much data can be transferred through the network and to your device at the same time. Bandwidth is similar to a pipe, and only so much information that can fit. Fibre has a notoriously large bandwidth, meaning that, depending on the speed you are on, multiple devices can be connected at the same time. This means that people in your home can be gaming, streaming, scrolling, emailing, or video calling, at the same time, without anyone experiencing buffering or lagging. Be sure to choose the right internet speed based on how many people are in your household and how many devices and smart appliances you have, to avoid interruptions.
Now that you have a better understanding of the terminology in the broadband world, why not compare your broadband? It is quick and easy to compare your broadband with Broadband Compare. Simply jump on the platform, enter your address, and select any preferences, and compare the broadband plans available to you. This is the most effective way to get matched with the right broadband plan for your unique needs, and avoid paying for more than you need, or not getting the right speed. Why pay more when you can make savings, within minutes?
