Find your perfect plan.

Reducing your broadband costs doesn’t have to be difficult, and there are several strategies that can help you save:

1. Compare and Switch Providers: One of the simplest ways to lower your bill is by switching to a different provider with a more affordable plan. Many broadband companies offer introductory discounts, so using our broadband comparison tool allows you to explore competitive rates and choose a plan that best suits your needs and budget.

2. Negotiate with Your Current Provider: If you’re happy with your current provider but want a better rate, try calling them directly. Let them know that you’re considering switching to save money and ask if they can match a competitor’s price. If you’re experiencing financial challenges, explain your situation. Providers are often willing to help reduce bills temporarily or offer discounts to retain customers.

3. Consider a Reduced Service: Many providers offer basic plans with lower speeds and fewer features, which can be a great option if you’re looking to cut down on monthly costs. Evaluate your household’s internet usage and consider downgrading to a plan that better fits your needs. Our broadband comparison tool can help you find basic plans available in your area.

4. Utilise Citizens Advice for Support: If you’re struggling to pay your broadband bill, Citizens Advice provides free resources and support to help you navigate these financial issues. They can guide you on available options and assist with negotiating with your provider. Learn more about their support options here.

By taking these steps, you can find ways to reduce your broadband expenses and find a plan that better suits your budget.

When evaluating broadband providers in the UK, it's essential to understand the various technologies and their associated speeds to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs.

Broadband Technologies and Speeds

1. ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line): Delivered via traditional copper telephone lines, ADSL offers download speeds up to 10Mbps. It's widely available, including in rural areas, but may not suffice for high-bandwidth activities like HD streaming or online gaming.

2. Fibre Optic (FTTC - Fibre to the Cabinet): This hybrid technology uses fibre cables to the street cabinet and copper lines to your home, providing speeds up to 80Mbps. It's suitable for most households, supporting multiple devices and streaming services.

3. Full Fibre (FTTP - Fibre to the Premises): Offering fibre connections directly to your home, FTTP delivers speeds up to 1Gbps (1,000Mbps). This is ideal for heavy internet users, large households, and those requiring ultra-fast, reliable connections.

4. Cable Broadband: Utilising coaxial cables, providers like Virgin Media offer speeds up to 1.13Gbps. Availability is more limited but we believe this is expanding almost daily.

5. 5G Home Broadband: Leveraging mobile networks, 5G can provide speeds comparable to fibre, depending on coverage and network congestion.

Choosing the Right Speed for Your Needs

• Light Users: For browsing, emails, and occasional streaming, speeds up to 10Mbps may suffice.

• Moderate Users: Households with multiple devices streaming HD content or online gaming should consider speeds between 50-100Mbps.

• Heavy Users: For 4K streaming, large file downloads, or smart home setups, speeds of 300Mbps and above are recommended.

Check Availability in Your Area

Broadband speeds and availability vary by location. To find the fastest options available to you, use our broadband comparison tool by entering your postcode. This will provide tailored information on providers and packages in your area, empowering you to make an informed decision that meets your specific needs.

Choosing the right amount of broadband data depends on understanding how much you use the internet in a typical month. “Data” in this context refers to the amount of information you download or upload through your broadband connection. Activities like streaming videos, gaming, browsing, and working from home all use different amounts of data, and each household’s needs are unique.

Here are a few scenarios to help gauge your needs:

1. Light Use (up to 50GB per month):For households that mainly browse, check emails, and occasionally stream or shop online, a smaller data allowance could be suitable. This level of use won’t require a high-capacity data package.

2. Moderate Use (50GB to 200GB per month):If your household regularly streams HD content, attends online classes, or works from home, you may need a moderate data plan. This range typically covers families with a few connected devices and regular streaming.

3. Heavy Use (200GB+ per month):Large households with multiple devices streaming in 4K, frequent gaming, and video calls often need unlimited or very high data plans. These plans ensure that everyone in the household can stay connected without worrying about data caps.

Risks of Too Much or Too Little Data

• Too Little Data: If you underestimate your data needs, you may find that you’re going over your allowance, which can lead to extra charges or reduced speeds (often called throttling) once you reach your data cap.

• Too Much Data: On the other hand, paying for an unlimited plan or a high data allowance may be unnecessary if you’re not using that much data. This could mean you’re paying more than needed without any added benefit.

Tips for Getting the Right Plan

1. Check Your Current Usage: Contact your current broadband provider to find out how much data you’ve used over the past few months. This will give you a better idea of your typical usage and help you make a more informed decision.

2. Ask About Alternative Packages: When speaking with your provider, ask if they offer any packages that better match your usage pattern. They might have a lower-cost plan with ample data for your needs, saving you money without impacting performance.

3. Compare Broadband Plans in Your Area: Our broadband comparison tool can show you various plans and packages available in your area, allowing you to find the ideal balance of data allowance and price.

By tailoring your broadband plan to your actual needs, you can save money while ensuring you have the data necessary for your household’s online activities.

Yes, switching broadband providers is now easier than ever, thanks to recent regulations and new processes like the “One Touch Switch” introduced by Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator. Here’s what you need to know:

1. When Can You Switch?  You can switch providers anytime, but if you’re still within your minimum contract period, you may face early termination charges. However, if your broadband speeds don’t meet the promised levels, Ofcom rules allow you to leave without penalty.

2. One Touch Switch (OTS) Process:  The OTS process enables you to switch providers quickly and hassle-free. Contact the new provider you wish to join, and they’ll handle the switch on your behalf. You won’t need to speak to your current provider, making it a smooth transition. This process also minimises service disruption, typically limiting any downtime to a single working day. Providers are required to compensate customers if the switch takes longer or if there are issues with the service.

3. Switching Bundled Services:  If you’re switching a broadband and phone bundle, OTS still applies. For bundles that include TV services, your current provider will provide switching details, which may require additional steps.

4. Checking Your Current Contract:  To determine if switching will involve extra charges, it’s best to contact your current provider. They can inform you of any remaining contract obligations, termination fees, or alternative packages that may suit your needs better.

5. Cooling-Off Period:  After arranging the switch, you have a 14-day “cooling-off” period to change your mind without penalty. If service has already started, you might still be charged for any used portion of the service.

For more details on the Ofcom switching process, see the Ofcom Switching Broadband Provider page.

To explore broadband options in your area, use our broadband comparison tool to find the best deals tailored to your needs. Switching at the end of your contract can often bring substantial savings or improved speeds.

Switching broadband providers mid-contract is possible, but there are important factors to consider, especially if you want to avoid penalties. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate your options:

1. Identify the Reason for Switching

   • Poor Speeds or Service Quality: If your broadband speeds are consistently lower than what was promised in your contract, Ofcom regulations protect you. You may be able to leave without penalty if your provider fails to meet the minimum speeds they committed to. This is known as the “Right to Exit” rule.
   • Service Disruptions: Frequent service interruptions or unresolved technical issues can also be grounds for an early exit if your provider is unable to resolve them promptly. Contact your provider to report the issues and allow them a chance to address them first.

2. Check for Early Termination Fees

   • Most broadband contracts include a minimum term, typically 12, 18, or 24 months. If you decide to leave before this period ends, you may incur an early termination fee. This fee varies by provider and the time remaining on your contract.
   • However, if you’re unhappy due to service issues or unmet speed promises, ask your provider if they’re willing to waive the fee as a goodwill gesture.

3. Consider Downgrading Instead of Switching

   • If cost is a concern or you feel your current plan doesn’t match your usage, talk to your provider about switching to a lower-tier package. Downgrading to a more suitable plan could reduce your bill without needing to break your contract.

4. Explore Flexible or Rolling Contracts

   • Some providers offer month-to-month or rolling contracts that allow you to switch providers with greater flexibility. When your current contract ends, consider switching to a rolling contract to avoid being locked into a long-term commitment.

5. Switching Without Penalty Under Ofcom Rules

   • Ofcom’s new “One Touch Switch” (OTS) process simplifies the switching experience and ensures transparency. If you initiate a switch, your new provider will automatically inform your current provider, who must notify you of any early termination fees or the impact on other services in your package (like phone or TV).
   • If you’re unhappy with your broadband provider, you can explore your options via our broadband comparison tool to find packages that better suit your needs, allowing for an informed switch when your current contract ends or as soon as early exit fees no longer apply.

6. Using the Cooling-Off Period for New Contracts

   • If you’ve just signed up for a broadband plan and realise it doesn’t meet your expectations, remember that you have a 14-day “cooling-off” period to cancel without penalty. However, you may be charged for any service already provided.

For more details on your switching rights, check Ofcom’s switching broadband provider guidelines.

Switching mid-contract may require negotiation, but understanding your rights and options can make the process smoother.

Choosing the right broadband deal can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle:

1. Speed Requirements

   • Consider Your Usage: If you only browse or stream occasionally, lower speeds may work just fine. However, for households with multiple users streaming in HD, gaming, or working from home, higher speeds are recommended.
   • Check Available Speeds: Keep in mind that advertised speeds may vary based on your location. Use our broadband comparison tool to check real speeds available in your area.

2. Data Allowance

   • Most broadband packages now offer unlimited data, but if a plan has a data cap, ensure it’s enough for your household’s needs. Heavy streaming, online gaming, and video calls consume more data, so consider an unlimited plan if your usage is high.

3. Contract Length and Flexibility

   • Broadband contracts usually range from 12 to 24 months, with long-term contracts sometimes offering lower monthly costs. However, if you prefer flexibility, consider month-to-month or rolling contracts that allow easier switching.

4. Price and Hidden Fees

   • Monthly Cost vs. Total Cost: Beyond the advertised monthly rate, consider setup fees, equipment charges, or potential mid-contract price hikes (common in March or April each year). Some providers offer introductory prices that increase after the first year.
   • Discounts and Bundles: Many providers offer bundle deals that combine broadband with TV, phone, or mobile. Bundles can be convenient, but always compare the total cost to ensure you’re getting real savings.

5. Customer Service and Reliability

   • Good customer service can make a big difference if you encounter issues with your connection. Check online reviews like trustpilot or sites like Ofcom’s customer satisfaction reports to see which providers are known for good service.

6. Broadband Type

   • Fibre vs. ADSL: Fibre broadband, especially FTTP (fibre to the premises), offers faster, more reliable speeds compared to ADSL, which runs over copper telephone lines. Cable and 5G home broadband can also be great options depending on availability.
   • Availability: Not all broadband types are available everywhere. Use our postcode checker to find what’s available in your area.

7. Additional Perks

   • Many providers offer extras like free streaming subscriptions, gift cards, or cashback with their plans. While perks can add value, make sure they don’t overshadow core needs like speed and reliability.

8. Switching Process and Flexibility

   • Switching is now simpler with Ofcom’s “One Touch Switch” process, so don’t be afraid to explore new providers. Be sure to check for any early termination fees with your current provider if you’re still under contract.

Ready to Compare?

Use our broadband comparison tool to explore tailored options based on your location, household needs, and preferences. This way, you can feel confident you’re getting the best deal that meets your needs, budget, and expectations.

Yes, broadband speed can vary significantly depending on where you live in the UK. Your broadband experience is influenced by several factors, including the types of technology available in your area, urban versus rural locations, and government-supported initiatives for enhanced connectivity. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Availability of Broadband Technologies

   • ADSL (Copper): Commonly available in rural and urban areas, ADSL provides basic broadband but is limited to slower speeds due to its reliance on copper telephone lines.
   • FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet): Widely available and offering speeds up to 80Mbps, FTTC uses a combination of fibre and copper cables. This is more common in urban areas and increasingly in rural areas.
   • FTTP (Full Fibre): Known for delivering the fastest speeds up to 1Gbps, FTTP brings fibre directly to your home. Coverage is expanding but remains limited, especially in remote areas.
   • Cable and 5G Broadband: Some areas, particularly cities and large towns, have access to cable broadband with high speeds and emerging 5G home broadband, offering flexible options for faster connections.

2. Solutions for Rural Areas

   • In rural areas where fibre or cable broadband may not be available, satellite broadband or 4G/5G home broadband can be alternatives. Satellite provides coverage even in remote locations, though it can be more expensive and may have slightly higher latency.

3. Project Gigabit – Government Initiative

   • The UK government’s Project Gigabit is a £5 billion programme aimed at expanding gigabit-capable broadband to hard-to-reach communities. This initiative targets underserved rural and remote areas, ensuring that people and businesses can access fast, reliable internet, supporting flexible work, education, and productivity.
   • The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme within Project Gigabit offers financial support for eligible rural homes and businesses, covering installation costs for gigabit-capable broadband.

4. Using Our Search Facility for Fastest Available Options

   • To find the fastest broadband options available in your area, use our broadband comparison tool. We work with 29 providers, allowing you to filter by speed and technology to get the best possible connection. This can empower you to choose the right provider and broadband type that fits your location and needs.

By understanding the options and checking availability, you can make an informed choice about the best broadband service for your household—whether you’re in a city or a rural community.

It’s essential to check if your broadband speed matches what you’re paying for, especially if you’re experiencing slower performance than expected. Here are some steps to verify your speed and take action if needed:

1. Use a Speed Test Tool

   • The easiest way to check your broadband speed is to use an online speed test tool such as the one on our website here, such as Speedtest.net. Running a test takes only a few seconds and provides a clear reading of your download and upload speeds. For accuracy, try to test at different times of day, as speeds can fluctuate based on network traffic.

2. Compare Your Results to Your Contracted Speeds

   • Check your provider’s contract or recent bills to confirm the speeds you’re paying for. Some providers advertise “up to” speeds, so your actual speeds may be slightly lower than the maximum listed in your contract. However, if your results are consistently much lower than the promised speeds, it may indicate an issue.

3. Consider Factors That Affect Speed

   • Device Limitations: Older devices may not support high speeds, so try testing on a newer device if possible.
   • Router Placement: Ensure your router is positioned in an open space, ideally near the centre of your home, to avoid interference.
   • Peak Times: Internet speeds can drop during peak usage hours (typically evenings), especially on shared networks.

4. Contact Your Provider if Speeds Don’t Match

   • If you’re consistently getting speeds well below what you’re paying for, contact your provider. Ofcom rules protect UK customers, allowing you to leave your contract without penalty if your provider fails to deliver the speeds they promised.
   • Ask if there are any issues with your connection or if they can offer advice to help improve your speeds. In some cases, upgrading your router or switching to a different package can make a significant difference.

5. Check for Other Broadband Options in Your Area

6. If your speeds remain unsatisfactory, you may want to consider switching providers. Use our broadband comparison tool to find faster options available in your area, tailored to your specific needs.

By regularly testing your speeds and understanding your options, you can ensure that you’re getting the best value from your broadband plan.

Many households experience internet speed issues that vary from room to room. This is a common problem with WiFi, where factors like walls, floors, and even interference from other devices can affect how well the wifi signal travels. Here’s some guidance to help improve coverage throughout your home:

1. Router Placement

   • Central Location: Placing your router in a central location in your home helps ensure that the signal reaches more rooms evenly. Avoid positioning it near thick walls, metal surfaces, or other electronics that could disrupt the signal.
   • Higher Placement: Placing your router on a shelf or higher up helps the signal spread more effectively across the home.

2. Upgrade to Dual-Band or Tri-Band Routers

   • Many modern routers use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The 2.4GHz band has a longer range but slower speeds, while 5GHz is faster but has a shorter range. A dual- or tri-band router lets you optimise coverage based on room location and usage needs.

3. Consider Powerline Adapters

   • Powerline adapters use your home’s electrical wiring to transmit the internet signal to other parts of the house. These adapters are ideal for homes with thick walls where WiFi struggles to penetrate. Plug one adapter near your router and another in a room where coverage is weak to boost the signal.  Powerline adapters can provide WiFi extension as well as ethernet ports. 

4. WiFi Boosters, Extenders, and Mesh Systems

   • WiFi Boosters/Extenders: These devices can help extend the range of your WiFi network. Place them in areas where the signal begins to weaken, allowing them to “relay” the connection further.
   • Mesh WiFi Systems: Mesh systems, made up of several small nodes placed around the house, create a network that covers the entire home. They’re a powerful solution for larger properties or homes with multiple floors, providing seamless coverage without needing multiple networks.

5. Minimise Interference

   • Appliances like microwaves, cordless phones, and even Bluetooth devices can interfere with your WiFi signal. Keep the router away from such devices and, if possible, switch to the 5GHz band, which is less prone to interference.

6. Talk to Your Provider

   • Many providers offer WiFi boosters or mesh systems to help improve coverage. Contact your current provider to see if they offer solutions or recommendations for boosting your home network.

7. Consider Local IT Support

   • If you’re unsure about setting up or optimising your network, many local IT companies can assess your home’s needs and install solutions that ensure reliable coverage throughout your space.

8. Test Your Coverage

   • Use a WiFi speed-testing app to measure speeds in different parts of your home. This will help identify weak spots, so you know where to place boosters or mesh nodes for maximum effectiveness.

Improving WiFi coverage can make a noticeable difference, especially for streaming, gaming, or working from home. If you’re interested in checking other broadband packages that might better meet your needs, use our broadband comparison tool to explore additional options.

Fibre broadband and standard broadband (often ADSL) use different technologies to deliver internet, resulting in major differences in speed, reliability, and availability. Here’s what you need to know to determine if upgrading is right for you:

1. Technology and Speed

   • Standard Broadband (ADSL): Delivered through traditional copper telephone lines, ADSL offers average speeds of up to 10Mbps. This can be sufficient for light browsing, emails, and occasional streaming but may struggle with multiple devices or heavy data use.
   • Fibre Broadband: Fibre uses fibre-optic cables, which are faster and more efficient than copper. There are two types: Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) and Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).
     • FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet): Fibre runs to a local cabinet, then connects to your home through copper cables. This setup offers speeds up to 80Mbps and is widely available.
     • FTTP (Full Fibre): Fibre goes directly to your home, allowing for speeds up to 1Gbps. FTTP is ideal for high-demand users but has limited availability, especially in rural areas.

2. Reliability and Performance

   • Fibre broadband is generally more reliable than ADSL, as fibre-optic cables are less affected by distance and environmental factors. This means fewer interruptions and a more consistent connection, especially during peak times.
   • If you regularly experience buffering, lag, or dropped connections on ADSL, fibre could offer a smoother, more reliable experience.

3. Availability

   • ADSL is available almost everywhere in the UK, while fibre availability varies by region. FTTC covers most urban and suburban areas, while FTTP is gradually expanding but remains limited in many rural areas.
   • Use our broadband comparison tool to check which fibre options are available in your area.

4. Is Upgrading Worth It?  Consider upgrading if:

   • You Stream or Game Frequently: Fibre’s higher speeds make it ideal for HD or 4K streaming, online gaming, and other high-bandwidth activities.
   • You Work or Study from Home: For video calls, file sharing, and virtual meetings, fibre’s reliability and faster upload speeds offer a better experience.
   • You Have Multiple Devices Connected: Fibre can better support households with multiple devices, reducing slowdowns during simultaneous use.

If you have lighter internet needs, ADSL may be sufficient, but if you want a more robust experience, upgrading to fibre could be worth the investment.

To find out which packages are available near you, including both ADSL and fibre options, use our broadband comparison tool and explore the plans that best suit your needs.

If you’re not ready to switch providers but want to get the most out of your current broadband plan, there are several ways to improve speed and performance at home. Here are some practical steps to help you boost your connection:

1. Optimise Your Router Placement

   • Central Location: Place your router in a central part of your home to help the signal reach all rooms more evenly. Avoid positioning it near thick walls, metal appliances, or other electronics that may interfere with the signal.
   • Higher Placement: Routers work best when placed high up, like on a shelf, as this helps distribute the signal more effectively.

2. Minimise Device Interference

   • Household devices like microwaves, baby monitors, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices can interfere with your WiFi. Try to keep these devices away from your router or switch to the 5GHz band if your router supports it, as it’s less susceptible to interference.

3. Limit Background Activity

   • Background apps and automatic updates can slow down your connection. Try to schedule large downloads or updates for off-peak hours, like late at night. On shared networks, limit high-bandwidth activities (such as streaming and gaming) during times when others need a strong connection for work or study.

4. Use Ethernet for Critical Devices

   • Connecting key devices like your PC, gaming console, or smart TV directly to the router via an Ethernet cable can improve speed and stability, especially for bandwidth-heavy tasks.

5. Restart Your Router Regularly

   • Rebooting your router once a week can refresh your connection and help resolve minor issues. Simply turn it off for about 10 seconds, then switch it back on to allow it to reconnect fully.

6. Consider a Powerline Adapter or WiFi Extender

   • If you have weak signal areas in your home, powerline adapters and WiFi extenders can help. Powerline adapters use your electrical wiring to extend the internet signal to different rooms, while WiFi extenders boost the range of your network.

7. Request a Router Upgrade from Your Provider

   • Older routers may not support the speeds or features of your broadband plan, especially if you’ve had the same equipment for years. Contact your provider to ask if they can upgrade your router to a newer model or if they offer mesh systems or boosters to enhance coverage.

8. Monitor Network Traffic

   • Use a WiFi analyser app to see which devices are connected and if your network is being overused or accessed by unknown devices. Managing your network traffic can help you identify and reduce unnecessary strain on your connection.

These adjustments can often improve broadband speeds noticeably without the need to switch providers. For those who still experience ongoing issues, consider exploring other packages or providers in your area using our broadband comparison tool to find options that may offer a better fit for your home’s needs.