Is it faster to use broadband through a usb or ethernet port

ethernet port mate

That is not entirely correct. Ethernet is only faster then USB on a LAN.

But for a broadband internet connection there is no difference as far as your download speed is concerned. Broadband usually maxes out at 1.5 megabits. Even USB is faster then that.

Still, either way, use an ethernet port.

i have tryed both with my cable modem and not found any difference
both work well

I install cable modems for a living there is no difference.

Yes, but you have to install drivers on a USB connection.. and risk the conflicts so..

you would still need to install drivers for an ethernet card and therefore risking conflicts, or am i missing something?

Moe

USB is every bit as good as Ethernet delivery - I have one sort and a mate has another - no difference.

You've actually got less chance of conflicts doing it by USB if you've already got USB on your machine. Whereas if you don't have a NIC installed, you will have to get one and install it, risking conflicts, though they are rarer nowadays.

The only potential issue with USB delivery is the power requirements of some of the USB "modems" - they are very close to the 500mA limit of the USB port, and sometimes the port on your mainboard can't provide enough power to run them and you have to buy a powered USB hub.

I didn't have that problem, but I have heard that some people have.

Cheers,
Rolf.