Broadband Explained

What is broadband?

Broadband is a high-speed internet connection that allows you to browse the web, stream videos and music, play online games, and download files quickly and easily. It's a faster and more reliable way to get online than traditional dial-up connections.

What Types of Broadband are there?

There are several types of broadband available in the UK, with ADSL, cable, fibre, and mobile broadband being the most commonly known.

The most future proof connections are full fibre; with alternative internet providers now offering fixed wireless and full fibre broadband connections. Satellite connections are also now available for even the most rural areas.

How do I choose the best broadband deal for me?

When choosing a new broadband provider, it's essential to consider a few key factors. You need to think about:
Speed: Determine how much speed you need based on your internet usage.
Data allowance: Check the data allowance of the package you're considering, especially if you're a heavy downloader or streamer.
Price: Consider the overall cost of the package, including any setup or installation fees.
Contract length: Decide how long you're willing to commit to a broadband contract.
Customer service: Look for a provider with good customer service ratings and reviews.
Availability: Check if the broadband package you want is available in your area.
Additional perks: Look for features or extras offered by the provider, such as a free router, free installation, welcome vouchers, or discounted bundles.

Broadband coverage in your area

Not all broadband deals are available everywhere, as some areas don't have all the broadband networks installed yet. So, you need to check which broadband options you can actually get at home

To see which deals are available in your area, visit the Broadband Market deal checker. Just enter your postcode, and we'll show you all the available deals, including prices, speeds, data caps, and everything else you need to know.

Can I get fibre broadband?

Fibre Broadband (known as FTTC) is available to 96% of homes in the UK delivered using fibre optic cables and then copper cabling into your home. The maximum speed available is 80Mbps, however speeds to your actual home will depend on your location

Full Fibre broadband (known as FTTP) delivers lightning-fast internet speeds above 100Mbps right up to 1 Gig for residential homes, it uses fibre optic cables directly to your home to deliver internet.

Full Fibre broadband is ideal for a tech busy home, designed to allow multiple users on multiple devices to carry out activities such as gaming, streaming, HD video calling and more all at the same time without interruption. Whilst also being a much more reliable connection as it is less susceptible to inference than a copper (FTTC) connection.

Use our deal finder to see what fibre broadband deals are available in your area.