Broadband divides a communication medium into distinct frequency channels, allowing voice, video, and data to travel over the same physical wire or wireless spectrum without interfering with each other. It contrasts with baseband transmission, which uses the entire bandwidth for a single digital signal. In consumer terms, it designates any internet connection significantly faster than dial-up.
We need to upgrade the branch office to a dedicated broadband link before we roll out the new video conferencing system.
Do not mix it up with
- Baseband: Broadband splits the medium into multiple frequency channels, while baseband uses the entire medium for one signal at a time.
Related terms
Baseband
The original frequency range of a transmission signal before it is modulated onto a higher-frequency carrier wave.
DSL
A digital subscriber line is a technology that transmits high-bandwidth data over traditional copper telephone wires.
DOCSIS
Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification defines how high-speed data is transmitted over coaxial television networks.