subject: Broadband is a Necessity, Not a Luxury [print this page] Broadband is a Necessity, Not a Luxury Broadband is a Necessity, Not a Luxury
With online activities becoming increasingly vital aspects of modern life, broadband internet connections are no longer considered a mere luxury, but are now being viewed as an essential requirement for the whole population.
What was once just a faster form of internet, allowing people to surf the web more conveniently, has become a necessary household utility that rivals - and, in many cases, exceeds - the popularity of television. That's because broadband is essential for our online life, from social networking with friends to hearing the latest music and keeping up to date with e-mails at all times of the day and night.
As more people choose to work from home or set up their own businesses, broadband is vital for keeping them connected during working hours, as well as in their leisure time. Even those who move to the country to escape the noise and bustle of the city still demand to be connected to the UK's ever-growing broadband network, with the availability of broadband often being a deciding factor in their selection of properties.
The government has also made it clear that the whole of the nation will benefit from super-fast broadband in the not-too-distant future, with even longer-term plans for next generation business broadband delivering faster speeds and connectivity to businesspeople wherever they are. This marks a significant shift from broadband being a commodity to becoming a must-have utility, even comparable to a home's electricity and gas services.
Although the term 'broadband' is generally associated with high speeds, especially compared to outdated 56k modems, the connectivity speeds and bandwidth can vary greatly, from as low as 64 Kbit/s to speeds exceeding 20 Mb. This range of options means users have greater freedom in choosing the broadband package that best suits them - whether they want the fastest connection possible to download music in seconds with no upper limit per month, or if they're happier to settle for speeds of up to 2 Mb to save money.
Whether you're a heavy internet user or just looking for a basic package to check emails and websites occasionally from home, there is a wide range of Sky broadband options available to suit all user types and budgets, making it easier to get connected. Users can even arrange their broadband connections along with other telecommunication and entertainment services, including digital TV and calls, to enjoy the convenience of a single provider.
