Switching to Broadband: Is 512 Mbps Good Enough?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the transition to broadband internet, specifically focusing on whether a maximum download speed of 512 Mbps is sufficient for users. Participants share their experiences, concerns, and advice regarding the upgrade process, speed comparisons, and additional considerations such as bandwidth caps and security measures.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the implications of switching to broadband and questions if 512 Mbps is a good speed.
  • Another participant compares their current DSL speed of 1.5 MB download and 256 KB upload, suggesting that if 512 KB is the best available, it might still be worth considering.
  • A participant shares their experience of upgrading to broadband, mentioning issues with the online application process and expressing optimism about the upgrade.
  • Concerns are raised about upload speeds and potential bandwidth caps, with one participant advising to inquire about these details before committing to a service.
  • Another participant reports a positive experience with broadband, highlighting the speed of downloads and the absence of limits after the upgrade.
  • A participant reflects on their brief return to dial-up after moving, describing it as intolerable compared to broadband.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of security measures, recommending the use of a firewall and updated antivirus software.
  • Another participant dismisses the need for firewalls, suggesting a more casual attitude toward security.
  • A humorous post appears, seemingly mocking the discussion with a nonsensical message about hacking.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the adequacy of 512 Mbps, with some suggesting it is sufficient while others imply that higher speeds are preferable. There is no consensus on the necessity of firewalls, with differing views on security measures. Overall, the discussion contains multiple perspectives and remains unresolved on several points.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various experiences with different internet speeds and service providers, indicating that personal preferences and local availability may significantly influence opinions on broadband adequacy.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering upgrading to broadband, those comparing internet speeds, and users interested in internet security measures may find this discussion relevant.

wolram
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i want to change my connection to broad band,"it has just
arrived in my area", can anyone tell me what this would
involve, I am told the maximum download speed will be 512
is that good?
thanks for any help.
 
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My DSL connection has a download rate of 1.5MB and upload of 256KB. This services costs $50 USD per month.

If 512KB is the best that is offered in your neighborhood and the price is good, then I would get it. You'll never want to go back to standard dialup again.
 
i took the plunge and am about to upgrade to BB,
as luck would have it the tiscali computers had
a glitch as i was filling in the online form, and
it went through with errors, now i have the trauma
of contacting them via land line and listening to music
and automated messages, isn't the computer age wonderful.
thanks for advice I'm sure the pain will be worth it.
 
also make sure you know the upspeed, and ask if there's a bandwidth cap. most do it monthly, such as 30 gig a month. some do it daily, mine is 1 gig a day.

also ask what happens if you go over the cap.
 
Ive done it, it was painless and simple even for me, the joy
of rapid downloads is mine, i have done the tests suggested
and i have no limits, an extra free download eliminated all
the unnecessary plug ins, and now PDFs are almost instant.
thank you all i am so happy.
 
I've been on broadband for the last 6 months, until my recent move...my dial-up experience lasted an entire day before I broke down and got DSL. I just couldn't go back...it is like an addiction!
 
Broadband is great, very fast.

But don't forget to get a firewall. Windows XP has a built-in firewall you can activate. And make sure your Anti-Virus programs are up to date.
 
Firewalls are for sissies.
 
Y0Ur C0mPUtEr H4$ b3en H@Ck3d. oWned! mU4h@H@H4
 

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