Bredband

Broadband, or bredband in some Nordic languages, refers to high-speed internet access that is always on and capable of supporting multiple simultaneous applications. It provides a much higher data transfer rate than traditional dial-up connections and underpins activities such as streaming video, cloud services, online gaming, and telepresence. The term is used to describe a range of technologies that deliver internet access over different physical media.

Common broadband technologies include fiber-optic networks (FTTH/FTTB), cable broadband (DOCSIS), copper-based DSL and VDSL, fixed wireless access (including 4G/5G and microwave links), and satellite links. Fiber generally offers the highest speeds and lowest latency, while DSL performance declines with distance from the provider's equipment. Cable shares capacity on a local network, and wireless connections can be highly dependent on signal conditions and spectrum availability.

Speeds are typically expressed in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps) and vary by country, provider, and plan. In many markets, broadband plans emphasize downstream capacity more than upstream, though symmetric fiber services provide balanced speeds. Latency, jitter, and packet loss affect real-time applications such as video calls and online gaming.

Deployment and regulation differ widely. Some regions rely on commercial investment, while others use public or municipal initiatives to expand access. Governments may set targets for universal service, encourage competition among providers, and promote open access to enable wholesale competition.

On usage, broadband has transformed work, education, and entertainment by enabling cloud services, remote work, and streaming media. Challenges include affordability, digital divides between urban and rural areas, and concerns about security and privacy.