Broadband is now available in almost 100% of Cornwall.
Visit BT to check your phone number www.bt.com/broadband 

Broadband is provided through your telephone line, you continue to pay your line rental and telephone call charges, and an additional charge is paid for broadband.

With broadband you can go online without blocking your phone line, your telephone and broadband connection can be used at the same time.

How much should you pay? Broadband offers are changing all the time, and range from £10-30 per month for a residential connection. Visit www.adslguide.org.uk for broadband provider information

The prices range and are dependant on a number of options, you should be able to get a 2mb connection with no restrictions and email for about £20 per month. ie www.demon.net , www.eclipse.co.uk , www.tiscali.co.uk

Speed options - This is dependant upon the distance from your local exchange see the bt checker for more information www.bt.com/broadband

Usage restrictions – Some providers limit your usage of your broadband
ie - you can send and receive 5gb of information per month
This includes all information from emails to web pages and download

Email – most providers give you a number of email addresses included in the cost of your broadband. Some will also include antivirus and spam filtering but you should still have your own Security ie Norton/Mc.afee

Web Space – some providers give web space so that you can host your own website, usually these are within your providers domain ie. www.mysite.freeserve.co.uk or www.mysite.demon.co.uk
Some will provide you with your web site ie www.mysite.co.uk however I recommend you do this through a separate provider so you are not tied in to their service.

Static IP – if you want to remotely access your computer you will need this facility

Installation and equipment

Line - To provide broadband your telephone line must be upgraded, this is usually free of charge.
Splitter – To enable you to use both your telephone and broadband on the same line a splitter is used, this plugs into your existing phone socket, providing you with two plugs, one for your phone, the other for your broadband.

Modem - You will also need a broadband modem, this is also often provided free of charge, or you can buy them from the provider, online or locally.

If you wish to connect more than one computer you will need a Router which is available through local suppliers or online.

If you wish to connect wirelessly you will need a Wireless Router, you will need to secure the wireless to ensure you do not allow others to access your computer and broadband connection.

Resources

For help with your computer or broadband try one of the computer services on our business page      
    www.belindaw.co.uk Roche IT Advisor 0777 609 49 25
    F1 Computer Care, St Austell 01726 891350

Free email antivirus www.grisoft.com
Other free software www.download.com

Businesses using broadband may be eligible for a subsidy towards the cost of their broadband connection.  Contact actnow 01209 722850 www.actnowcornwall.co.uk for further information.