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Frequently Asked Questions
What is broadband and how is it different from Wi‑Fi?
Broadband is the high‑speed internet connection delivered to your home over cables like fibre‑optic or copper. It’s the actual service your internet provider supplies.
Wi‑Fi is the wireless network your router creates so devices—phones, laptops, tablets—can connect to that broadband signal without any cables.
Imagine broadband as the water supply coming into your house, and Wi‑Fi as the taps and pipes distributing it around your rooms. A poor Wi‑Fi signal doesn’t always mean your broadband is slow—it might be down to where your router sits or interference from walls and other electronics.
Want to find the best deal right away? Here are four top UK comparison sites—each with its own advantage. Just enter your postcode and start saving in seconds.
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SearchSwitchSave.com
– Instantly compare deals from 35+ UK providers, enter your postcode, and switch in under 60 seconds with no calls or hassle.
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HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk
– Spotlights daily “hot” broadband deals in your exact postcode, including cashback and gift‑card extras, so you only see the most rewarding offers.
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BroadbandNow.co.uk
– Lets you input your postcode to quickly compare the fastest speeds at the lowest prices with One‑Touch Switch for a frictionless upgrade.
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BroadbandHunter.co.uk
– Scours hundreds of ISPs every day to bring you fresh, wide‑ranging broadband deals—full‑fibre, bundles, no‑contract—so you always get optimal value.
Checking all four will give you a complete picture of price, speed and extras—so you can pick the perfect plan for your home.
What types of broadband are available in the UK?
There are six main ways to get online—each works a bit differently:
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ADSL (Standard Broadband)
Uses old copper phone lines. Speeds up to 24 Mbps. Good for emails and light browsing, but can slow down if the whole household is streaming or gaming.
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FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet)
Fibre to a street cabinet, then copper into your home. Typical speeds 30–80 Mbps. Balances cost and performance for most families.
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FTTP (Full Fibre)
Fibre straight to your door. Speeds from 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps or more. Perfect for busy households, large file uploads and streaming 4K video.
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Cable Broadband
Delivered over TV coaxial cables. Often matches or beats full‑fibre speeds in practice. Check bundles: some include TV or phone.
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Mobile Broadband
4G or 5G via a SIM‑powered router or dongle. No landline needed and highly portable, but data caps and signal strength vary.
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Satellite Broadband
Internet beamed from space. Available almost anywhere—even the countryside—but can have higher latency and lower data allowances.
Coverage and real‑world speeds depend on your exact postcode. To see what you can get right now, try one of these:
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SearchSwitchSave.com
– Compare 35+ providers, enter your postcode, and switch in under 60 seconds with zero calls.
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HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk
– Daily “hot” offers in your postcode, plus cashback and gift‑card extras.
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BroadbandNow.co.uk
– One‑Touch Switch after comparing speeds, prices and user ratings.
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BroadbandHunter.co.uk
– Scours hundreds of ISPs daily for the freshest full‑fibre, bundle and no‑contract deals.
What broadband speed do I need for my household?
Your ideal speed depends on what you do online and how many devices share the connection. Here’s a quick guide:
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10–30 Mbps – Light use: email, web browsing, social media, occasional HD video.
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50–100 Mbps – Standard use: multiple HD streams, video calls, online learning.
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100–300 Mbps – Heavy use: 4K streaming, serious gaming, large file uploads.
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300 + Mbps – Power users: smart home setups, simultaneous 4K/8K streams, remote work with big data.
Remember:
- More devices = more bandwidth. If you’ve got gamers, streamers, or home workers all at once, aim higher.
- Upload speed matters too—if you host video calls, share big files, or back up data to the cloud, look for symmetric or high upload rates.
- Actual speeds depend on your postcode and network type. Always check what’s delivered to your address before you sign up.
Get precise quotes and real‑world speed estimates instantly:
How do I check what broadband is available at my address?
Not every broadband type reaches every home. Here’s the easiest way to see exactly what you can get:
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Go to a postcode checker—enter your postcode on one of these sites:
- Enter your full postcode (and house number if prompted).
- Review the list of available deals—look at speed, price, contract length and any extras like cashback or gift cards.
- Filter or sort by your priorities: lowest monthly cost, fastest speed or best perks.
- Click through to your chosen deal, fill in your details, and switch—most sites will handle the switchover with minimal downtime.
Checking in advance avoids nasty surprises—especially for full‑fibre or new‑build providers that aren’t yet everywhere. Always compare at least two sites to ensure you’re getting the best combination of price, speed and extras for your exact address.
How much does broadband cost in the UK?
Broadband prices vary by speed, provider and contract type. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Basic packages: £20–£25 per month – suitable for light browsing and email
- Superfast or full fibre: £25–£40 per month – good for HD streaming and video calls
- Premium speeds or bundles: £40 plus per month – ideal for 4K streaming, gaming and home offices
Keep in mind:
- Some deals rise in price after the initial term – always check the post‑contract rate
- Installation or activation fees may apply
- Router rental or delivery charges are sometimes extra
- Early‑exit fees if you cancel before your contract ends
Compare up‑to‑date deals at your postcode:
Which broadband provider should I choose?
Choosing the right broadband provider comes down to where you live and what matters most—speed, reliability, price or extra perks. Here’s how to pick the best fit:
- Coverage: Not all providers reach every street—check availability at your exact postcode.
- Speed & connection type: Full fibre (FTTP) offers the fastest, most consistent speeds; FTTC and cable are a solid mid‑range choice.
- Price & contract: Compare monthly costs, setup fees, post‑contract rates and early‑exit penalties.
- Customer service & reliability: Look for real user reviews and uptime guarantees to avoid long outages.
- Extras & bundles: Cashback, gift cards, free routers or TV/phone bundles can add real value.
Start your comparison with one of these top UK sites:
What’s the difference between standard broadband and fibre broadband?
Standard broadband (ADSL) uses copper phone lines and delivers speeds of 10–24 Mbps. Fibre broadband uses fibre‑optic cables and is far faster and more reliable:
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FTTC (Fibre to the Cabinet)
Fibre runs to a street‑side cabinet, then copper into your home. Typical speeds 30–80 Mbps—great for HD streaming and video calls.
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FTTP (Full Fibre)
Fibre goes all the way to your door. Speeds from 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps or more—perfect for 4K streaming, online gaming and home offices.
Fibre broadband usually costs slightly more but offers consistent performance and lower lag. If fibre’s available at your postcode, it’s often the smarter choice.
Compare offers and availability on these top UK sites:
Can I get broadband without a phone line?
Yes—you don’t need a traditional landline to get online. These options all work without a phone connection:
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Full fibre (FTTP): Pure fibre‑optic straight to your home—no copper line needed.
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Cable broadband: Uses TV coaxial cables, so no phone line is required.
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Mobile broadband: 4G/5G routers or dongles with a SIM card—fully wireless.
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Satellite broadband: Internet beamed from space—ideal for remote areas without any fixed lines.
Check availability and compare non‑phone‑line deals instantly:
What contract length should I go for?
Choosing the right contract length balances cost, commitment and flexibility. Here are the common options:
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12 months – Shorter commitment, easier to switch later, but monthly cost can be slightly higher.
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18–24 months – Often the cheapest monthly rate, with discounts and freebies, but you’re locked in longer.
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30‑day rolling – No long‑term commitment, ideal for students or short‑term lets, though usually the most expensive option.
Things to watch for:
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Early‑exit fees – Check how much you’ll owe if you leave before the contract ends.
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Post‑contract price hikes – Some providers increase your monthly fee once the initial term finishes.
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Setup or installation charges – These can sometimes be waived on longer deals.
Compare the best deals for your chosen term:
How do I switch broadband providers?
Switching is straightforward and usually handled by your new provider. Follow these simple steps:
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Choose your new deal: Use a comparison site to pick the best price, speed and extras.
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Provide your details: Enter your postcode, current provider and personal info on the new site.
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Authorise the switch: Approve the transfer—no need to contact your old provider yourself.
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Receive your switch date: You’ll get a confirmation email with the exact switchover time.
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Plug in your new router: If supplied, set up the new equipment; downtime is usually under an hour.
Compare and switch in one place using these top UK tools:
Are there hidden broadband costs?
While headline prices look tempting, extras can quickly add up. Watch out for:
- Setup or activation fees – One‑off charges when you join, sometimes waived on longer contracts.
- Router delivery or rental – Free routers are common, but you may pay postage or a monthly rental fee.
- Mid‑contract price rises – Some providers link increases to inflation, so your monthly bill could jump after 12 months.
- Early‑exit penalties – Leaving before your term ends can cost the remainder of your contract or a flat fee.
Always read the small print on installation, “free” extras and price‑rise clauses before you sign up.
Compare real‑world deals and see all costs upfront:
Do I get a router included? Can I use my own?
Most broadband deals include a free Wi‑Fi router, though you may pay a small delivery or activation fee. If you prefer your own equipment, that’s usually fine—just make sure it’s compatible with your provider’s network.
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Included router: Often free, but check for any postage or monthly rental charges.
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Your own router: Works if it supports your connection type (ADSL, FTTC, FTTP or cable). Look up compatibility guides on the provider’s site.
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Advanced features: Third‑party routers or mesh systems can improve coverage, control and security in larger homes.
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Warranty & support: Using the provider’s router usually means full support; with your own, you’ll rely on the manufacturer for help.
Check deals and router options on these top sites:
What is unlimited broadband?
Unlimited broadband means there are no data caps—you can stream, download and browse as much as you like without worrying about hitting a limit.
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No monthly data allowance – truly unlimited usage, ideal for large households, 4K/8K streaming and heavy downloads.
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Fair usage policies – some providers may slow speeds during network congestion or if you use extremely large amounts of data.
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Always check the small print – “unlimited” sometimes comes with clauses on peak‑time throttling or network management.
Compare unlimited broadband deals using one of these top UK sites:
What speed will I actually get?
The “up to” speed your provider advertises is a maximum under ideal conditions. Your real‑world speed depends on several factors:
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Connection type – Fibre (FTTP/FTTC) is more consistent than copper (ADSL).
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Distance to the cabinet – For FTTC, the further you are, the slower your speed.
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Network congestion – Speeds can dip during peak hours when many neighbours are online.
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Wi‑Fi and equipment – Walls, interference and an old router can reduce wireless speeds.
By law, providers must give you a minimum guaranteed speed. If your line regularly falls below this and they can’t fix it, you may be entitled to leave without penalty.
To see real‑world speed estimates and performance data for your exact postcode, check one of these sites:
Will my broadband price go up during the contract?
Many providers include annual price reviews in their contracts, often linked to inflation (CPI or RPI) plus an extra 3–4%. This means your monthly bill could increase each year.
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Inflation‑linked rises – Commonly CPI or RPI plus a set percentage. The exact formula must be clearly stated in your contract.
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Fixed‑price deals – Some plans guarantee the same monthly cost for the entire term, making budgeting easier.
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Post‑contract hikes – Once your initial term ends, your provider may raise the price unless you renew or switch.
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Early‑exit considerations – If you decide to leave after a price rise, check for any cancellation fees or notice requirements.
Always read the “price change” section before you sign up. To compare contracts with clear pricing terms, try these sites:
Can I leave my contract early without penalty?
Generally you’ll pay an early‑exit fee if you cancel before your term ends—unless:
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You’re within the 14‑day cooling‑off period after signing up.
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Your provider has breached the contract (for example, repeated faults they can’t fix or an unexpected price rise).
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You’re moving to a location they cannot service.
If none of those apply, expect to pay either:
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A flat early‑exit charge (often a set fee per remaining month).
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The cost of your remaining contract months at your current rate.
Always read the “cancellation” and “early‑exit” sections in the small print before you sign up. To compare cancellation policies and fees upfront, check one of these sites:
Are there cheaper broadband deals for low‑income households?
Yes—social tariffs offer discounted broadband for people on benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
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Speeds typically 30–50 Mbps for just £10–£20 per month.
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Flexible terms with no unexpected price rises.
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Eligibility is often under‑utilised—check if you qualify.
Ofcom is the best place to start for help with Social Broadband Tariffs:
Should I bundle broadband with TV or phone?
Bundling broadband with TV or phone can save you money and simplify your bills—especially if you want extra services. Here’s what to consider:
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TV bundles: Add premium channels, sports or streaming subscriptions. Great if you watch a lot of TV, but avoid paying for channels you won’t use.
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Landline phone: Bundles often include free or discounted line rental and call packages. Useful if you still use a home phone regularly.
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Mobile SIM plans: Some providers let you add a mobile plan at a reduced rate. Handy if you want one bill for all your connections.
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Standalone broadband: Usually the cheapest if you only need internet. Don’t overpay for extras you won’t use.
Compare bundled and standalone deals here:
How long does installation take and will I need an engineer?
Installation usually happens within 5–14 days of ordering. Most of the time you won’t need an engineer—just plug in the new router when it arrives. However, you may require a visit if:
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First‑time full‑fibre (FTTP) – New fibre cabling into your home often needs professional setup.
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No active line – If there’s no existing phone or cable line, an engineer will activate or install it.
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Network type change – Switching from copper (ADSL/FTTC) to cable or full‑fibre may require a brief site visit.
If no engineer visit is needed, simply:
- Receive your new router in the post.
- Connect it to your wall socket and power it on.
- Follow the provider’s quick setup guide (often just a web‑app login).
To compare installation times, engineer requirements and deals at your postcode, try:
How can I improve my broadband speed at home?
A few simple tweaks can boost your Wi‑Fi performance and make the most of your broadband:
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Router placement – Position your router centrally, off the floor and away from thick walls or electronics like microwaves that cause interference.
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Use Ethernet where possible – Wired connections to PCs, smart TVs or gaming consoles deliver faster, more reliable speeds than Wi‑Fi.
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Upgrade old equipment – If your router is several years old, a modern dual‑band or mesh system can dramatically improve coverage.
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Add extenders or mesh nodes – For larger homes or dead‑spot areas, Wi‑Fi extenders or a mesh Wi‑Fi kit ensure consistent signal throughout.
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Reduce interference – Keep the router away from cordless phones, baby monitors and Bluetooth speakers that share the same frequency.
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Test wired vs wireless – Run a speed test on a PC connected by Ethernet to see your true line speed. If wired speeds are poor, consider switching provider.
Ready to see live speed estimates and compare upgrade options? Try these UK broadband comparison sites:
