Wired Broadband Connectivity

Wired Internet Methods

Methods of Wired Internet

There are three common methods of wired internet connection: ADSL, FTTC, and FTTP—each offering unique advantages tailored to different needs and circumstances.

ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line)

ADSL is a digital communication technology that enables high-speed data transmission over traditional copper telephone lines.

FTTC (Fiber to the Cabinet)

FTTC is a fibre optic internet connection where fibre cables run from the exchange to the street cabinet, and then copper cables carry the signal from the cabinet to the premises.

FTTP (Fiber to the Premises)

FTTP involves running fibre optic cables directly from the exchange to the user's premises, offering a complete fibre optic connection.

Quick Overview

ADSL: Best for basic internet needs, especially in rural or underserved areas.
FTTC: A balanced choice for good speeds and availability at a moderate cost.
FTTP: The fastest, most reliable choice, perfect for future-proofing with maximum speed.

Comparison Table

Category	ADSL	FTTC	FTTP
Technology	Uses existing copper telephone lines	Fibre to cabinet, copper for the last mile	Fibre-optic cables directly to premises
Speed	Up to 24 Mbps (download) / 3 Mbps (upload)	Up to 80 Mbps (download) / 20 Mbps (upload)	1 Gbps+ (download & upload)
Distance Limitation	Performance degrades with distance from exchange	Performance drops with distance from street cabinet	No limitations, speed is consistent
Reliability	Prone to interference, depends on copper quality	More reliable but still affected by copper quality	Highly reliable, no interference issues
Installation	Requires only a modem	Requires fibre to cabinet and copper connection	Needs fibre installation to premises
Availability	Widely available, even in rural areas	Common in urban & suburban areas, less in rural	Limited to urban or new developments
Cost	Low cost due to copper infrastructure	Moderate cost due to fibre upgrades	Higher initial cost, but long-term savings
Symmetry	Asymmetric (faster download)	Asymmetric (faster download)	Can be symmetric (equal upload/download)
Future-proofing	Limited, relies on aging copper	Moderate, still relies on copper for last mile	Highly future-proof, ideal for future tech