Introduction to the Internet
For many the Internet is now part of everyday working life. In agriculture also, the Internet is playing an increasing role as a useful tool for farmers managing their businesses. This technical note outlines what the Internet is, how it can be used and what benefits it has to offer in improving the effective management of farm businesses.
What is the Internet?
In simple terms it is a worldwide system of computer networks in which any one computer can get information from any other computer connected to the network.
The number of internet users passed two billion, or almost a third of the world's population, in 2011.
What can the internet offer you?
- Information - From any source world wide that has a presence on the Internet, for example, Agriculture Advisers, Colleges, Universities, Banks, Purchasers, Supply companies.
- Business tools – Online herd management tools (for example. Aphis Online, Farm Software Suppliers) and other tools such as online banking or currency converters.
- A world wide market place – virtually anything can be bought or sold.
- Communication - Email allows communication with anyone at anytime.
- Discussion groups - exchange information with other farmers and individuals about what interests or troubles you.
How do I get connected?
Traditionally users connect to the internet using a ‘dial-up’ connection through the telephone and pay for the time spent online. However, a dial-up connection is slow, which will result in a poor experience. Broadband or high speed internet access is available to ALL households in Northern Ireland. An Internet Service Provider (ISP) can provide you with a broadband
What is Broadband?
Broadband internet access is generally regarded as any high speed (greater than 256Kbs) connection that is always on. Unlike dialup internet access you do not pay for the time you spend online.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) normally charge a fixed monthly fee that will give you access to the internet. Some providers may restrict the amount of data you can download or the speed you can download data in any month. Others provide “unlimited” access with no restrictions. But beware of terms and conditions of your contract, as most providers will have a “fair use” policy even for unlimited usage contracts
There are various Broadband options available, but not all options are available to all households.
Phone line
The internet data is sent and received using your telephone line connected to a ADSL modem/router in your home. Some areas have access to BT's 'fibre to the cabinet' (fttc) network. This offers much higher up and download speeds of up to 40MB/s. Check BT website for coverage details.y
The internet data is sent and received using your telephone line connected to a ADSL modem/router in your home. Some areas have access to BT's 'fibre to the cabinet' (fttc) network. This offers much higher up and download speeds of up to 40MB/s. Check BT website for coverage details.y
Cable
Some urban areas in Northern Ireland have access to cable broadband. Virgin Media is the main supplier of cable broadband in Northern Ireland and covers most of Belfast and other large urban regions.
Some urban areas in Northern Ireland have access to cable broadband. Virgin Media is the main supplier of cable broadband in Northern Ireland and covers most of Belfast and other large urban regions.
Wireless
Wireless Broadband providers can offer users a service that allows you to receive broadband data from a wireless transmitter in your area. You don’t need a phone line. These tend to be localised services in areas where broadband via telephone is limited.
Wireless Broadband providers can offer users a service that allows you to receive broadband data from a wireless transmitter in your area. You don’t need a phone line. These tend to be localised services in areas where broadband via telephone is limited.
Satellite
Satellite Broadband is an option for people who cannot get phone or cable broadband. It tends to be more expensive than other types of connection for a comparable level of service.
Satellite Broadband is an option for people who cannot get phone or cable broadband. It tends to be more expensive than other types of connection for a comparable level of service.
Mobile
Many mobile phone companies are offering broadband access via their mobile phone network. You are supplied with a UBS modem which plugs into your PC. The quality of broadband will depend on mobile phone signal quality.
Many mobile phone companies are offering broadband access via their mobile phone network. You are supplied with a UBS modem which plugs into your PC. The quality of broadband will depend on mobile phone signal quality.
What will Broadband cost?
The price of Broadband access can vary dramatically depending on many factors; connection method, your usage level, download speed and whether your internet comes as part of another package such as telephone or TV. Many deals will also offer several months at a reduced rate before you pay the full rate. A general rule of thumb is to bundle services together to get a better deal.
Typical costs are detailed below, the variations in cost reflect the different services Broadband providers can offer.
| Connection Type | Speed | Approx Monthly Charge | Monthly Download Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phone Line | 512Kbs to 30Mbs | £13 - £35 | 10GB – Unlimited* |
| Cable | Up to 50Mbs | £13 - £25 | Unlimited* |
| Wireless | 512Kbs to 3Mbs | £30 - £120 | Unlimited* |
| Satellite | 512Kbs to 3Mbs | £25 - £70 | Unlimited* |
| Mobile | 0Kbs to 7.2Mbs | £3 - £30 | 256Mbs-5GB |
* Unlimited downloads are subject to each suppliers fair use policy
Most ISPs’ basic broadband deal offers a speed of “up to” a stated speed. Be aware that users rarely if ever experience the theoretical maximum speeds. The actual speed will vary due to many factors, such as, distance to local telephone exchange, quality of the phone line coming to your house, quality of the phone line inside your house, number of other users online in your area, mobile phone signal strength, and mobile phone signal type (GPRS, 3G, HSDPA).
What is a browser?
A browser is a software application that allows you to view pages of information from the World Wide Web.
Examples are Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari and Google Chrome. This will often be already available on your PC. If not, browsers are available to download free of charge to your PC. Although the majority of web sites function the same on all web browsers some web pages may not. Internet Explorer is the most compatible browser and should work with all websites.
No matter which browser you choose to use, make sure you have the latest version to help keep your pc secure.
What is a Search Engine?
Trying to find a website or some information online? If you don’t know where to look, you should use one of the many search engines available online. A search engine is a web based service that allows you to search for information on the World Wide Web. Examples are www.google.co.uk
, www.live.com (MSN), www.yahoo.com and www.altavista.com. Most browsers now come with integrated search facilities, meaning you don’t have to visit a web site to perform a search. Simply type a word or phrase into the address bar and the search results will be returned.
, www.live.com (MSN), www.yahoo.com and www.altavista.com. Most browsers now come with integrated search facilities, meaning you don’t have to visit a web site to perform a search. Simply type a word or phrase into the address bar and the search results will be returned. 
What if I can’t get Broadband?
You can! Broadband access is available to all households in Northern Ireland. Not all households can receive their broadband access via their phone line. Other options are available, but these may be more expensive than the comparable broadband via a phone line.
What is DARD doing?
DARD has developed the RuralNI portal website to provide a one stop shop for farmers and growers in Northern Ireland. Currently the portal has over 4500 pages of up to date technical information and some 29 interactive business support tools to aid farmers and growers in making key decisions
Where do I get some help?
You can get information and some basic instructions and help from
- The IT Team at Greenmount Campus
- Computer hardware or software suppliers
- Your ISP (Internet Service Provider)
Contact:
The IT Team at Greenmount College
Tel: 028 9442 6699
Fax: 028 9442 6777
Fax: 028 9442 6777
Technical Update prepared by Jason McFerran,
IT Technologist,
Greenmount Campus,
College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise,
Antrim,
BT41 4PU
IT Technologist,
Greenmount Campus,
College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise,
Antrim,
BT41 4PU
Last updated Dec 2011
