Need broadband? Ready to switch? Get fair, unbiased advice in a language you understand so you make the right choice.
Broadband Availability
Broadband availability in the UK is getting better all the time, and more than 70 per cent of the country is now covered by a broadband provider (Ofcom, 2006). However, access is supplied by various networks that cover different areas separately. Consequently, if you find a provider that you like the look of, you might be disappointed to discover that they don’t supply your area.
If you have a BT landline (regardless of whether you pay BT for your calls), you will be able to get an ADSL broadband connection. This works simply by connecting a modem to your phone line, but it doesn’t mean you have to use any of BT’s broadband packages.
As your area needs to be physically connected to the cable network to have access, there are parts of the UK where cable broadband availability is limited. If your area is currently served by Virgin Media (formerly ntl:Telewest), you should be able to get cable broadband. Cable broadband availability is currently restricted to about half of UK homes.
These processes are still in their infancy and rarely used by home internet users, but satellite and wireless options may be a good choice in the few areas where cable and ADSL broadband availability is poor or non-existent.
The best way to avoid disappointment is to restrict your search to cover only the providers available in your area. To do this, go to our UK broadband comparison service and type in your postcode – it will then give you a list of the best suppliers in your area, listed by price and highlighting any catches or extra benefits such as a fair usage policy or free internet security.