The internet can be a great source of information for blind and partially sighted people. This guide aims to demystify some of the jargon associated with getting online.
Technology is evolving all the time, so this is not a definitive guide, but we hope that this information will help you to get started.
Benefits of using the internet
The internet can open up a world of information. Here are just a handful of everyday uses:
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exchange email messages with friends and family
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meet new people who share your hobbies and interests
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obtain information about any given topic
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read newspapers and magazines
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manage your finances and bank accounts
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plan your journeys and book travel tickets
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listen to radio stations from all over the world
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watch recent TV programmes
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shop for food, clothes, or practically anything, without leaving your home.
We've spoken to blind and partially sighted people of all ages who have found that technology has made their lives easier.
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Listen to blind and partially sighted people of all ages explain how technology has made their lives easier.
What you'll need to get online
First, you'll need access to a computer, laptop or a tablet. Many mobile phones and smart phones also now provide internet access.
You might also want to get some 'access' or 'assistive' technology to help you use your device, for example a screen reader or braille display. Find out more about access technology by calling our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
Internet connection
Once you've decided which device you're going to use, the next thing you'll need is an internet connection. There are a number of different connection types, and it is easy to become overwhelmed by jargon relating to each one. Here is a simple list of the main options available.
ADSL Broadband connection
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) broadband is the most popular form of internet connection in the UK. To set it up, you'll need a landline telephone in your home, provided by a telephone company like BT. ADSL uses your telephone line to transmit digital information to and from the internet. Once the phone line is active, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) will provide the equipment that will get you online, for example a small box called a router which you'll need to connect to your computer. Don't worry, you'll still be able to receive phone calls as usual, even when you're using the internet.
Cable Broadband connection
Cable broadband is supplied by big companies such as Virgin Media. If you live in an area that has cable, you should be able to pay one price per month for a combination of internet, TV and/or phone, which is delivered into your home via the cable connection. An engineer will visit your home to install some equipment if your address is being connected to cable for the first time.
Mobile Broadband connection
Mobile broadband is provided by mobile phone service providers such as Vodafone, O2, Orange, T-Mobile or Three. Because it is 'mobile', this type of broadband connects you to the internet without tying you to a specific address. You'll be provided with a small gadget that plugs into your computer, called a 'USB dongle', which enables you to get online. Mobile broadband is usually more expensive than ADSL or cable, and its quality depends on the mobile signal available where you live. However, it is portable, meaning that if you travel a lot and you like to use a laptop or netbook computer when you're on the move, it can be good option.
Dial-up connection
Dial-up was the original method of internet connection, and is much slower than newer connections available today. Although it isn't widely used anymore, people still rely on it if they live in very remote areas where there are no other options. Usually, your telephone provider will offer a dial-up connection upon request.
Choosing an Internet Service Provider
Most internet service providers (ISPs) offer a range of price plans that are all different and constantly changing. Choosing one can be a confusing business.
Here are some key things to consider when deciding which package is best for you:
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Try not to be intimidated by the range of options on offer. It's always good to shop around, and a good Internet Service Provider will take time to answer your questions and make you feel at ease.
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In most cases, you'll have to sign up for a fixed term contract. Make sure your contract allows for a trial period of at least two weeks, so that you can cancel if you aren't happy with the service.
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When you use the internet, data is exchanged between your computer and the internet servers. Data sent from your computer is known as 'upload', while data received by your computer is called 'download'. Both are measured in gigabytes (GB). Using the internet for basic tasks such as email, browsing websites, and reading text, will not use much data. However, listening to internet radio, viewing photos and videos or downloading large files will use more data. Some ISPs set a limit on the amount of data you can use each month, often called a 'bandwidth' or 'usage limit'. If you plan to use the internet a lot, make sure you shop around and think about paying a little extra each month for unlimited bandwidth.
Technology Support Squad
If you've recently bought a computer, smart phone or tablet for going online, but you're having difficulty using it, call RNIB's Technology Support Squad. We have a team of over 1,000 volunteers across the UK who can visit you at home to help you set up and use technology, from TVs and computers through to mobile phones and eBook readers.
Call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 to find out more or request a free volunteer.
Still need help?
We hope that our range of beginner's guides gave you the information you needed to get started with confidence. You can order a copy of this guide in large print, audio CD or braille by calling our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
But if you've read the guides and still need some help, you could try the following: