broadband news

Broadband Speed

Today, speed is a major part of most ISPs’ advertising. Each will claim to offer you faster internet than the next, equating higher bandwidth to smoother surfing and greater download allowances. Broadband speed simply refers to the speed at which data is transferred between your computer and the internet.

How can I find out my broadband speed?

A postcode check will reveal the top speed currently being offered in your area. The result of this will be the maximum broadband speed available to you. Once the check has revealed your maximum possible speed, the quickest and easiest way to find out your own actual figure is to run a broadband speed test.

We have our own test on the site that will help you find out everything you need to know.

I’m not getting the broadband speed my ISP advertised - why?

After running the above checks, customers often find that the speed at which they can surf is lower than what they thought they were paying for. This is because broadband speed is affected by a number of things, primarily the location you live in. Variables such as your distance from the telephone exchange and whether or not you live in an area with cable will all affect the speed available to you.

Most providers state that their packages offer ’up to’ a certain speed, meaning that customers can potentially get this broadband speed, but only if it is available in their area and if variables allow for it. Always know your maximum broadband speed before signing up to expensive deals - there is no point paying for 10Mb broadband if your area only supports 2Mb.

15/08/2008
Author: CompareBroadbandUK staff writer

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