Broadband Deals

What is Broadband?

Broadband is a high-speed internet connection that provides reliable and fast access to the internet. Unlike older dial-up connections, which limited telephone usage and offered slower speeds, broadband allows you to enjoy uninterrupted internet service without affecting your telephone line.

Broadband connections are defined not only by their speed but also by their ability to provide a continuous, always-on connection. They facilitate a wide range of online activities, from basic web browsing and email to streaming high-definition videos, playing online games, and managing smart home devices.

What Types of Broadband Connection Are Available?

There are four main types of broadband connection in the UK. There are three fixed line or ‘home' broadband technologies, which operate over in-ground wires (ADSL, fibre optic, and cable). The fourth, mobile broadband, works using mobile networks.

Standard or ADSL Broadband

Broadband that operates over the copper wires of the landline phone network. ADSL delivers average download speeds of 10 to 11 Mbps. It's available to 99% of UK households.

Fibre Optic Broadband

Fibre optic broadband delivers internet over fibre optic cables. This allows for a faster connection than you'd get with copper wires. Most forms of fibre broadband available in the UK are FTTC, or fibre to the cabinet. This means the last mile between your local street cabinet and home uses standard copper telephone lines. FTTC connections are available to 95% of UK premises, often for just a few pounds a month more than ADSL packages.

FTTP (fibre to the premises) or full-fibre is much faster, but less readily available. FTTC connections work with fibre cables going all the way to your property. However, FTTP is only available at 4% of UK addresses.

Cable Broadband

Cable broadband bypasses the copper phone network entirely and delivers the internet over coaxial cables. The main cable provider in the UK is Virgin Media, which offers broadband with speeds starting at 54 Mbps all the way up to 362 Mbps.
Virgin cable connections are available to just half of UK addresses, however. It's also important to keep in mind that switching to or from a cable provider will mean you'll probably require a visit from an engineer to get set up. Your new provider will handle this but it might add an extra couple of weeks to the switching time.

Mobile Broadband

Mobile broadband is internet delivered over the 3G and 4G mobile networks. To get online, you'll need a device such as a dongle or personal hotspot (MiFis), or a data-only SIM. You can get online with a mobile broadband device wherever you have adequate phone service but speeds tend to be more limited than those for fixed line broadband.

One exception here is 5G. If you live in a 5G ready area, and are happy to pay a premium for a 5G router, you'll benefit from speeds that beat most fixed line connections.

Mobile broadband connections will be limited by download allowances. This means that mobile broadband isn't usually a cost-effective substitute for fixed line broadband in your home. However, its portability could make it an attractive additional service for people who want internet on the go.

What to Consider When You Compare Broadband Deals

Selecting the right broadband package is key to ensuring a satisfying online experience, whether it's for work, entertainment, or communication. Here are some critical considerations to keep in mind when evaluating different broadband offers:

• Pricing and Value: Evaluate the overall cost-effectiveness of the broadband plan. This includes not only the monthly subscription fee but also any initial setup costs, such as those for installation or equipment like routers. Some providers may offer these without additional charges, reducing your upfront investment.
• Contract Duration: Understand the commitment you are making with the contract term, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. Shorter contracts provide more flexibility to change providers, while longer contracts may offer lower rates as an incentive to stay longer.
• Potential for Price Increases: Some contracts may permit price increases in line with inflation or regulatory changes. It's important to know how these changes are implemented and how they might affect your monthly bills throughout the contract period.
• Speed Requirements: Assess the speed necessary for your household or business activities. High-speed connections are particularly important for streaming media, engaging in online gaming, or handling large downloads. Make sure the offered speed aligns with your regular internet usage.
• Incentives and Bonuses: Many broadband deals come with enticing extras such as cashback offers, free tech gifts, or vouchers. These bonuses can provide additional value but should be weighed alongside the core aspects of the service.
• Equipment Needs: Determine whether you'll need additional hardware to get your service up and running. This could mean a new router or installation of special lines, like fibre-optic cables, which might incur extra costs.
• Service Availability: Check which services are available in your area. Advanced options like ultrafast fibre might provide better speeds but have limited availability compared to standard services.
• Bundle Deals: Combining your broadband with other services such as TV and phone might lead to savings and convenience. Evaluate the savings against the benefits of having separate providers to decide what’s best for your situation.

What Factors Could Impact Your Broadband Speed?

Understanding what affects your broadband speed can help you troubleshoot issues and make informed decisions about your internet service. Several factors can influence the performance of your broadband connection:

• Type of Connection: The technology behind your internet connection plays a significant role. For example, fibre broadband typically offers faster and more reliable speeds than ADSL or satellite connections. The materials and infrastructure of your connection type directly impact the maximum speeds you can achieve.
• Distance from the Exchange: Particularly with ADSL broadband, the distance between your home and the telephone exchange can affect your speed. The further away you are, the weaker the signal and the slower your connection will be.
• Network Congestion: The number of people using the same broadband connection simultaneously, especially during peak hours (evenings and weekends), can slow down the speeds you receive. This is because all users share the same bandwidth provided by the service.
• Internal Wiring and Interference: Old or poorly configured internal wiring within your home can degrade your broadband signal. Additionally, interference from other electronic devices, such as microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors, can also disrupt your connection.
• Hardware and Firmware: The age and capability of your router, modem, or other networking equipment affect your internet speed. Older models may not support newer, faster internet standards. Similarly, not regularly updating firmware can lead to performance issues.
• External Environmental Factors: For connections like satellite broadband, weather conditions can play a part. Heavy rain, snow, or storms can interfere with the signals, leading to temporary slowdowns or disruptions.
• ISP Throttling: Sometimes, internet service providers (ISPs) may intentionally slow down your internet speed during heavy traffic periods or if you’re engaged in bandwidth-heavy activities like streaming in high definition or downloading large files.

Find the Best Broadband Deal for Your Needs

When choosing a new broadband service, key considerations should include the speed and reliability of the connection, customer service ratings, and the overall cost-effectiveness of the plan. Take the time to thoroughly compare various offers, focusing on the specific features that matter most to you, such as download speeds, data limits, and any additional fees. Compare and contrast broadband packages to make sure you're not only getting the best price, but the right deal for your needs.