With so many UK providers offering multiple options, it can be really difficult to choose a broadband package that suits your needs. These are the main factors to consider when purchasing a home broadband solution.
Average broadband download speed
Until recently, broadband providers could only advertise their ‘Up to’ speed. However, recent regulation now means that they have to show ‘Average Speed’.
Average speed is defined as the speed achieved by at least 50% of customers during peak hours. The UK government communications regulator Ofcom defines the rush hour between 8pm and 10pm.
Despite the change, the actual speed you get will of course depend on a number of factors, including:
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The type of connection, for example, cable or fiber.
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How far is your home from the telephone exchange box
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The area you live in
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The time of day you are using the connection.
Generally speaking, the faster the average speed, the more expensive the package will cost. Deciding what speed you need is determined by what you are using it for.
If you just want to surf the internet and receive some emails, a standard broadband connection may be sufficient. On the other hand, if you are going to stream music and movies, play online games, or have a family that uses multiple devices at the same time, then a much faster fiber connection is required.
You can always upgrade your broadband connection if you find it to be too slow, but you may incur additional costs if you do so while you are in the middle of your contract term.
Broadband packet type
Broadband providers generally offer three types of packages:
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Broadband only
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Broadband and telephony
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Broadband and telephone with TV
As you generally require a phone connection to have broadband, only a few will offer broadband only. When you compare broadband, you will find that most packages will automatically include a Wi-Fi router, line rental, and some type of calling rate package.
Several providers will also offer a TV package in addition to the telephone and broadband connection. This TV package can vary greatly between providers, but generally includes some or all of the following:
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Providing a box that can record several hours of television.
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The box’s ability to rewind and pause live TV.
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The ability to watch Freeview channels
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The option to subscribe to premium channels such as Sky Sports, BT Sport or movies
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The ability to watch TV and on-demand shows to catch up.
Duration of the broadband contract
Once you sign up for a broadband package, you will have a cooling off period during which you can cancel. However, if you decide that you no longer want the package or want to switch to a new provider, you may incur penalty charges for canceling early.
Therefore, it is important to make sure that you are satisfied with the length of the contract you are signing and the terms within that contract.
Broadband providers generally offer the following contract options:
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12 month contract
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18 month contract
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24 month contract
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Without contract
A no-contract option is just that. You pay your fees month to month until you decide you don’t want them. However, a no-contract option has generally increased the monthly cost compared to a longer contract period.
Broadband installation cost
This is the initial cost that the provider charges you for setting up the broadband connection and / or the cost of the package and publication to ship the equipment to your home.
Some providers do not charge any setup fees or will sometimes have offers to include setup for free.
Monthly cost
This is the ongoing monthly fee that you will pay for your broadband connection.
After deciding all the above factors, you should limit your selection to a few packages that meet your requirements. You can then compare additional features and benefits beyond the main selection criteria.
Additional things to consider are the cost of phone calls, whether the package includes free weekend or evening calls, the channels available if you opt for a TV package, the functionality of the TV box, and the controls. parental services that are offered with your broadband connection.