At Brillband, we know broadband terms can be confusing so we’re here to make things simple. Think of this as your ‘what’s actually going on’ guide to keep things nice and simple. 🛜
Bandwidth
This is how much data your internet connection can handle at once. Higher bandwidth means more devices can use your Wi-Fi at the same time, so everyone in your home can stream, game, and browse without slowing down. An easy way to improve bandwidth is by adding extra eero units to boost coverage around your home.
Download Speed
Download speed is the rate at which data moves from the internet to your device. The faster your download speed, the quicker you can stream videos, download files, and load websites. A strong download speed ensures everyone in your home can enjoy smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing without interruptions. 🚀
Ethernet (LAN) Connection
An Ethernet (LAN) cable connects your ONT to your router. This wired connection carries your broadband signal into the router, allowing your Wi-Fi network to work. Using an Ethernet cable here ensures a stable, reliable connection right from the source, so your Wi-Fi can reach your devices smoothly.
Just to note -
LAN stands for Local Area Network, it’s the network inside your home that your Ethernet cable helps run, connecting your router to your internet.
ONT (Optical Network Terminal) is the box on your wall that brings your fibre broadband into your home and connects to your router.
Fibre to the Premises (FFTP)
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) means full fibre runs all the way into your home, delivering faster and more reliable internet.
Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC)
FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet) is a hybrid setup where fibre runs to your local street cabinet, then copper cables connect the cabinet to your home, delivering speeds of around 80–100 Mbps.
Latency
Latency is the short delay between an action and the response online. Like the time between clicking “play” on Netflix and the video actually starting. Lower latency (under 20 ms) means smoother gaming, faster reactions, and clearer video calls. 🎮
Mesh Wi-Fi System
Multiple eero devices work together like a well‑coordinated team, spreading strong, seamless Wi‑Fi coverage throughout your home - from the living room to the garage. 🛋🛻
ONT (Optical Network Terminal)
The ONT (Optical Network Terminal) is the box on your wall - this will be black or white depending on your network - that converts fibre light into Ethernet data. Keep it powered on 24/7 for the best performance. ⚡
Packet Loss & Jitter
If you hear these words, here’s what they mean:
Packet Loss: Imagine missing letters in a sentence. When data “packets” go missing, you might notice choppy video, dropped frames, or interrupted calls.
Jitter: This happens when packets arrive at uneven intervals, causing stuttered or glitchy streaming.
Both packet loss and jitter should be as close to zero as possible for a smooth, seamless online experience. 🎬🎮
Router
Your home’s internet hub (your eero device). It links all your devices, directs data where it needs to go, and keeps your network safe from unwanted access. 📶
SSID & Encryption (WPA2/WPA3)
SSID: This is your Wi‑Fi network’s name (for example, “Brillband900”).
WPA2/WPA3: These security standards act like a secret code, keeping your Wi‑Fi safe and protecting it from anyone trying to join without permission. 🔒
5 GHz vs 2.4 GHz Bands
5 GHz: Offers faster speeds over shorter distances - great when you’re close to your router.
2.4 GHz: Reaches further through walls and obstacles - ideal for distant rooms or simple smart devices.
Static IP vs Dynamic IP
Dynamic IP: Your home’s internet address changes from time to time - which is perfectly fine for most users.
Static IP: A fixed, permanent address - useful if you run a server or need remote access to devices.