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Whether you’re purchasing your first deal or switching to a new provider, finding the right broadband package is easier than you think.
With so much competition between broadband providers, and huge investments in improving internet speeds, there are more options available now than ever.
When you search for a broadband package on Allstarutilities, our deals tables will clearly show the details of each package, the monthly price, length of contract, as well as any exclusives, additional features, benefits or discounts.
It’ll show You’ll also see a breakdown of the costs associated with each broadband package such as line rental, setup cost and regular price.
Make sure that you’re happy with the contract length and look out for the out-of-contract prices your provider will charge once your fixed-term period ends, so you know the right time to switch to your next package.
If the end of your contract is approaching but you’d like to spend a bit more time researching the best deal to switch to, you can sign up for regular email updates from us to get expert insight and advice, as well as a view of the latest money-saving deals on our site.
What is ADSL broadband?
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) broadband is provided through existing BT phone lines, and is the most widely available broadband connection on the market. ADSL broadband comes from your local telephone exchange, owned by BT, through a fixed line access network made out of copper wires. These are the telephone lines in the street.
What is cable broadband?
Cable broadband uses fibre-optic cables to transmit data. Unlike the copper wires of an ADSL connection, cables are partially made of fibre-optic material, which allows for far less signal degradation and much faster broadband speeds.
What is mobile broadband?
Mobile broadband is transmitted over mobile phone networks and requires no cabling. Users are able to get online wherever there is a mobile phone signal, either by using a USB dongle or a MiFi. Dongles allow only one device to connect to the mobile network, but MiFis act like wireless routers, allowing multiple devices to connect.
A router sends and receives data between the cable supplying the internet and the devices connecting to the internet. Once upon a time all routers were wired, meaning that a cable would connect from your device (usually your computer) to the router itself.
These days wired routers have become somewhat obsolete, and are only used in instances where people require a specialist connection to the internet (usually via an ethernet cable).
Wireless routers are now commonplace, using radio signals to transfer data between your devices and the internet.
There are several commons reasons for experiencing a delay to your internet installation:
You need a new phone line: Most properties have had a BT landline installed at some point, which will be required by any provider operating on the Openreach network (everyone except Virgin Media and Hyperoptic). If your home doesn’t have a landline connection, one will need to be installed in order for you to access the internet, and you’ll have to pay for reconnection.
You’re moving to a new build property: If you live in a new build property, your address must be registered with Royal Mail before you can place an order for a phone line or broadband, or get equipment delivered in the post. The builder should register the property or you can contact Royal Mail yourself.
You live in a flat: With all broadband providers, non-standard set-up may cost extra. Sky states that prices may vary if you live in a flat. Plus, some leasehold flats are not permitted to have a Sky dish installed (if you’re getting Sky TV) – so check the details of your lease. If you live in a high-rise flat, your installation engineer may need to locate the ‘distribution point’ in the building, so it’s helpful to find out where this is in advance.
You live in a rented property: If you’re renting, you might need to ask the landlord’s permission before getting a phone line or broadband installed. Check your tenancy contract, though there’s no valid reason for them to say no. Be wary of signing a contract that is longer than your rental contract – if you have to move out you will still have to pay for the remaining time on your contract – or risk being charged a cancellation fee.
You miss the engineer appointment: If a visit by an engineer has been arranged to activate your service, make sure you or another person over 18 is at your property at the agreed date and time. Failure to do so will result in a delay in installation and possibly charges for wasting time.
It usually takes around two weeks to set up internet access in a new house. If there’s a working broadband line already installed in the property, getting internet access could be as simple as plugging in your new router when you arrive.
If you do need a new line installed, however – either for a new provider or new service such as fibre or cable broadband – an engineer visit can take up to two weeks to arrange.
Note: in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many broadband providers are still working to catch up with their backlog of engineer visits, so there may be a longer wait in the coming months.
If you want to switch broadband providers during lockdown, moving between two that share the Openreach network (which includes everyone except Virgin Media and Hyperoptic) means that you probably won’t need an engineer to come to your home to install your new service.
In most cases, you can self-install, with no risk of spreading coronavirus – ideal if you’re shielding or self-isolating.
The only exception is where you switch to an ultrafast fibre-to-the-premises service, where in-home installation is usually required.