Millions of BT and Sky users missing out on huge broadband boost
If your broadband feels like it's stuck in the dark ages it might be worth checking your postcode or calling your supplier to see if better speeds are now available. UK regulator Ofcom has just announced that over 17 million homes can now access full fibre speeds rather than downloading files via archaic copper wires that dangle about our streets.
Although a huge majority of properties can connect to much faster speeds it appears that only around 4.6 million have decided to do so.
For those not already aware, Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) connections are massively superior to older technology. In fact, some of the latest cables are capable of whizzing the web through walls at speeds in excess of 900Mbps - that's over 10 times quicker than copper can muster.
With an ultrafast line coming into your home, a full HD movie would take just 40 seconds to download - that's compared to almost 10 minutes using older cables.
All of the main ISPs including BT, Sky and Virgin Media now offer FTTP services and there are also a swathe of smaller so-called alt networks that are also springing up all over the UK. These smaller providers are often cheaper so it's worth checking out what's available in your street before signing up for a lengthy contract. For example, London's Community Fibre is currently offering its 1Gbps service for just £25 per month which is cheaper than BT's entry-level speeds.
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Speaking about the update, Lindsey Fussell, Ofcom’s Network and Communications Group Director, said: “The rapid rise in availability of full-fibre broadband is good news for people and businesses across the UK, with millions more able to benefit from fast, reliable and future-proof internet.
“When the time comes to take out a new broadband contract, we encourage people to shop around and find out what options are available to make sure they are on the best package for their needs.”
And Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, added: "It's good to see increases in coverage over the past year. The government must do more to encourage full-fibre broadband take up as current levels are concerningly low. Better information about the benefits, awareness raising campaigns and targeted voucher and discount schemes, including for those on low incomes, will help to break down the barriers preventing households from taking advantage of these better connections."
WHAT SPEEDS DO YOU REALLY NEED?
Of course, not everyone needs ludicrously quick 1Gbps speeds. If you live alone and simply send a few emails each day you'll be fine with anything around 30Mbps. Start streaming shows and movies in 4K and you'll probably want at least 70Mbps to make sure things stay smooth and reliable.
If you have a packed home full of people and devices that are constantly downloading huge files, films and music then the faster the speeds you can get the better.
Think of broadband a little like a motorway, the more traffic that runs along it the slower it gets.
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