What does "high-speed internet" typically refer to?

"High-speed internet" typically refers to internet access with speeds higher than dial-up services, which is why this choice is correct. The term emerged as a way to differentiate between older, slower technologies, such as dial-up, and newer broadband technologies that allow for significantly faster data transmission.

Dial-up internet operates at speeds up to 56 Kbps, while high-speed options, including digital subscriber line (DSL), cable, and fiber-optic, can provide speeds that range from several megabits per second to gigabits per second. This increased bandwidth enables more efficient data transfer, allowing users to stream videos, play online games, and conduct video calls without noticeable lag, which are not feasible with dial-up connections.

The other choices do not accurately represent the concept of high-speed internet. Access with speeds lower than dial-up is not classified as high-speed, and while cable internet is one type of broadband service, high-speed internet encompasses various technologies, including DSL and fiber-optic services. Similarly, referring to high-speed internet strictly as a type of Wi-Fi connection excludes other forms of broadband access like wired connections. Thus, the correct answer captures the broader understanding of what constitutes high-speed internet.