Broadband Advice

We asked our Broadband expert for some general advice on troubleshooting and getting the best out of broadband.

"I would advise against being tempted by "free ADSL modem" offers, as these tend to be simple, cheap USB devices.

The disadvantages with USB ADSL modems are:

1) All processing and routing is carried out by your PC's processor, which adds an unnecessary overhead to your computer.

2) Your PC, and therefore your Windows operating system (assuming
that's what you have), becomes the first line of defence against the Internet.

The incredible proliferation of virus and spam activity is largely
thanks to 2) above.  Windows is not good when exposed directly to the net.  General advice for anybody with a USB ADSL modem out there: DITCH IT!

Spend a little extra and buy a hardware ADSL modem that doubles as a firewall and provides a barrier between your PC and the Internet.

Look our for manufacturers such as Netgear and D-Link.  Netgear's
DG834 (or the wireless version, the DG834G) is a good bit of kit.

It comes with one microfilter, but you'll need additional ones for
each BT extension socket you use.  They can be bought very cheaply.

This may apply if you have Sky: I've heard reports of broadband
playing up when the Sky Digibox is plugged in to the phone line, even through a microfilter.  I can't tell you much more than that, as mine works fine.  If you find this to be the case then unplug the digibox (from the phone line, not the mains!!).

Avoid using trailing telephone extension leads from your BT master
socket to the point of use - it may be fine for phone or analogue
modem use, but the high frequencies used for ADSL data are more
sensitive to poor connections (i.e. the extension lead plug), and this is a common cause of broadband failure.  If necessary either hard-wire a phone extension or pay BT to come and fit one for you."