According to a recent survey, the UK now has more broadband users than dial-up internet users. This is partly due to the increasing popularity of wireless broadband networks for homes and offices, and also due to the fact that the cheapest broadband deals are now cheaper than some dial-up plans. Wireless Broadband enables computers and peripherals around the home or office to be connected to each other and to the internet without the need for unsightly cables running up and down walls and under floors. The cheapest broadband deals allow for such technology to reach our homes for less than 10 per month. Broadband has come a long way since 2001 when the UK government announced a Broadband Britain. Back then there were many disaster stories from early subscribers who were failing to get connected despite paying for expensive broadband services. In addition to this there were those who were just simply too far from a broadband-enabled exchange or cable franchise to get it at all. Back then broadband suppliers and the UK government learned that you cannot build expensive e-services and expect people to flock to them. Presently it is obvious that the internet is not about masses of content, it is about communication. Broadband is used in the home as a means of communication with loved ones and the local community more than anything else. It is not about viewing exotic far-away locations on a web cam or communicating with people you have never even met on person. In the office the internet is being used for advertising, receiving orders for products and services, and for keeping together the various parts of the business. This can be coupled with an intranet which allows internal communication within the business itself. Soon broadband will begin to absorb television and digital TV will be viewed through home computers. Hardcopy newspapers are already experiencing a noticeable drop in sales and the internet appears to be picking up the customers through online news websites and blogs. Unlike physical newspapers which are printed and released once or twice a day, online news websites provide continuous, streaming, up-to-date news which is always on any time of the day or night. It is safe to say that the world today is always on. The internet does not sleep and is constantly being updated and can be accessed anytime, from almost anywhere. The Wireless Broadband revolution has gained a lot of momentum over the last 5 years and looks to continue until every home and business with a requirement for the internet, television, or voice communication is connected. |
