Contract length or term:
The cheapest way to get your computer onto the internet is through your existing phone line. This usually requires a 12 to 18 month contract.
Bundles and Line rental:
Because fixed line internet connections use your existing phone line you will already be paying line rental to whoever provides your telephone service. Naturally, many broadband providers want to provide your phone line as well as your internet and offer deals to try to get you to switch. These deals may be referred to as 'bundles' and might have additional sweeteners such as free printers etc...
Dongle:
See 'mobile broadband'
Internet Service Provider (ISP) or Provider:
Simply the company that provides the broadband service
Limit/Usage/Allowance:
The amount of 'data' you can download per month. Doing anything on the internet means downloading data. . Once you reach your limit the internet stops working for the remainder of the billing month. Things like watching shows on BBC iPlayer and downloading music can really whizz through your limit. Several ISP's offer unlimited internet.
Mobile broadband:
This is an alternative to the 'fixed line' connection that comes through your phone line. A small device (about the size of a bourbon biscuit) called a 'dongle' plugs directly into your computer making it very quick to set up. Pay as you go options as well as long term contracts are available but both these options tend to be more expensive, slower than fixed line connections and the data allowance that you buy can expire in 30 days. 1 month contracts are available that can be as cheap as fixed line connections but usually have much lower data limits.
Modems and Routers:
Required for fixed line internet connections, these plug into your phone line and your computer. These should be supplied free when you sign up with an ISP.
Speed:
This is how fast the internet comes into your house measured in Mb (Megabytes). Faster internet makes things like watching television shows on BBC iPlayer easier and quicker. If you're just browsing the internet and sending emails you don't have to worry about speed.
Wireless:
Your computer is not wirelessly enabled therefore you would need either to plug your computer directly into the router with the cable provided or to purchase a USB wireless adapter which retails for around £10.