Computer data architecture is based on the binary system of using ones and zeros in a string of eight "bits" to form different characters. Each string of eight bits is called a byte. 8 bits = 1 byte = 1 character as described by the order of the 8 bits of data

For example, the capital letter "K" is expressed in binary bits as "01001011." Approximately one thousand (actually 1024) bits of data equals a kilobit, while 1024 bytes equals a kilobyte. Kbps always refers to kilobits, while the designation of KB/sec refers to kilobytes.

1024 bits = 1 kilobit

1024 bytes = 1 kilobyte = 8 kilobits

1024 kilobytes = 1 megabyte = 8,192 kilobits

One of the most ubiquitous devices to rate data transfer speeds in terms of kbps is the standard dial-up modem. At 56 kbps it provides the least expensive, albeit the slowest, method of connectivity to the Internet. As an example, DSL modems deliver speeds starting at 144 kbps and ranging upwards of 3,000 kbps, sometimes expressed as 3.0 mbps (megabits per second).

Many high-speed ISPs (Internet Service Providers) continue to describe their services in terms of kilobits, rather than using kilobytes or megabits. This makes it easy for potential customers to compare transfer rates against their existing dial-up modems. When rates are expressed in units other than kbps, it can be confusing to the dial-up shopper.

While a dial-up modem is capable of speeds close to 56 kbps, line noise, network traffic and other interference can cut data transfer speed significantly. Under the best circumstances, a 56 kbps modem will generally operate at about 53 kbps or 6 KB/sec. Here are some conversions that might help when looking at high-speed services:

Kbps	KB/sec	Mbps	MB/sec
56	6			Dial-Up
144	18			(3x faster)
384	48			(8x faster)
768	96			(16x faster)
1,100	137.5	1.0		(20x faster)
1,500	187.5	1.5		(27x faster)
3,000	375	2.9	0.36	(54x faster)
6,000	750	5.8	0.73	(108x faster)

High-speed services might include DSL, cable and satellite. VDSL (Very high-speed Digital Subscriber Line) can deliver speeds of up to 100 mbps. Generally, the faster the transfer speed, the higher the monthly charge. Household consumers switching from dial-up modems to high-speed access will likely call upon the services of a company providing speeds in the ranges listed above.

With the emphasis on Internet connectivity in work, schools and the home -- and the growing applications requiring higher throughput -- understanding kbps will no doubt become handy in determining the best value for your money when switching ISPs.