Broadband FAQ

You must have used the Internet recently, but you are going for the Internet connection at home for the first time. If you are wondering which type of broadband connection and which broadband service provider to approach to, it would be a good idea to gain clarity on certain broadband services and packages before you get your own broadband connection, UK.

What is Broadband and how is it provided across homes?

Broadband is a fast internet connection which allows you to use your regular phone while you simultaneously access the Internet. These days, Broadband is preferred over the dial up means of receiving an Internet as it offers faster download speeds up to 8 Mbps – 20 Mbps against 57.6 KB as offered by dial up internet connection.

Broadband is provided across home by a BT, a major landline provider in UK or even through cable modem or through satellite broadband

What does download speed? How can I check the download speed of my broadband connection?

Download speed simply means speed per second at which you can receive information on to your computer – the information could range from a song, a film or sports clip or any other form of data which is useful to you.  The higher the download speed, the faster downloading of data.

Amongst broadband providers, BT offers a uniform download speed of up to 20 Mb across all its packages. Virgin offers three levels of download speed viz 10Mb, 20 Mb and 50 MB through its packages. Also Sky Broadband is offering 3 varying download speeds of up to 2MB, 10MB and 20 MB

Most of the broadband provider websites have a broadband speed checker through which you can ascertain the speed in your area by entering your postal code. The main factors which influence the download speed are your location from the telephone exchange and web traffic.

For a broadband connection what do I actually require?

You would be requiring a computer, a phone line, a broadband modem and wires for setting up the broadband connection.  Also in case you wish to wireless, you will also be requiring a wireless router for the same and for connecting multiple computers to your broadband connection.  Most of the broadband packages UK such as Sky Broadband, BT Broadband and Virgin Broadband offer free routers to their customers.

How much does a Broadband connection cost?

Again, Broadband Packages costs vary from provider to provider.  Many factors influence the broadband package cost such as the download speed offered, monthly usage limit, free services and benefits and also promotional offers which are offered on special occasions.  Sky Broadband Base, the most basic broadband package of 2Mb and 2GB monthly usage is offered free along with Sky TV and Sky Talk. On similar basis BT offers a uniform download speed of up to 20 MB across BT Broadband Option 1, Option 2 and Option 3. Options 1 and 2 have monthly usage limits and BT Total Broadband Option 3 has no limits on downloads and hence its rates differ accordingly. Virgin offers varying download speeds viz 10MB, 20Mb and 50Mb along with unlimited downloads and other benefits and hence you have to pay for it accordingly.

Can I switch from one broadband provider to another?

Yes, in case you wish to switch from one broadband provider to another. Before switching you need to check out the terms and conditions of your broadband contract as you may to pay a cancellation charge in case of termination before the contract gets over.  And also make sure you get your Migration Access Code from the earlier provider which when furnished to the new broadband provider ensures you enjoy a broadband connection throughout the switchover process as well.