Cable broadband is unfortunately only available in a very limited number of areas in Ireland. Due to the fact that most of NTL’s cable network is only capable of one-way transmission and not two-way which is required for broadband, only a limited number of areas in Dublin can avail of NTL’s cable modem Internet service. A nationwide upgrade of the network is unlikely in the current economic climate, so consider yourself very lucky if you can avail of this product! Cable is the broadband platform technology of choice for most Americans. A cable connection is the gamer’s best option as it has low ping times (low latency).
NTL'S offering, although limited in availability, is attractively priced. The monthly charge for 2GB usage limit for a 1Mb downstream and 100k upstream service is €19.99 a month and the highest package is 6Mb downstream; 512k upstream (40GB usage limit) at €39.99 a month, both include free installation and modem* although Terms and conditions apply.
Because this service operates over your cable television connection it does not interfere with your telephone in any way.
Chorus also have cable broadband on offer in a limited number of areas in Kilkenny, Clonmel and Thurles.
Advantages:
1. It is always on.
2. Far faster than dialup.
3. It makes use of existing infrastructure although it has to be upgraded in most cases.
4. Relatively inexpensive and typically less expensive than DSL offerings.
5. The install is quite straightforward and there is a minimum of disruption.
6. It is widely adopted worldwide which makes the equipment inexpensive to buy.
7. It provides the stimulus for Telco's to offer DSL as it is a threat to dialup revenues.
Disadvantages:
1. The bandwidth is shared among many so it can vary quite considerably.
2. At present, it is asymmetric only. This is a technology limitation.
3. Only the incumbent provider (the one who owns the infrastructure) is automatically able to supply the service. Unbundling of the infrastructure is more difficult technically.
4. Security is an issue currently as people on the same line can quite easily 'hack' others computers. A properly implemented firewall will alleviate this risk.
