Broadband Glossary - A

A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, P, R, S, T, U, V, W, 0-9

Broadband terms defined on this page:

• Activation
• ADSL
• ADSL modem
• Anti-virus software
• Adware

Activation

The process by which your phone line becomes enabled to receive data and telephone calls simultaneously.
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ADSL

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. Technology that converts standard copper wires, used for telephones, enabling them to support high-speed internet. “Asymmetric” refers to the fact that download and upload speeds are different – the data travelling to your house (download) will be faster than the data going back to the exchange (upload).
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ADSL modem

Hardware used to connect your computer to the internet over an ADSL broadband connection.
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Anti-virus software

No matter how you plan to use the internet you should make sure that you’re protected from computer viruses. Some broadband providers supply free software with their packages or you can buy comprehensive protection for around £45 a year.
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Adware

Advertising pop-ups that appear on your screen while using the internet. Often deemed unsafe as they can sometimes have spyware capabilities that allow personal information to be tracked.
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