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Choosing A Broadband Provider - Speed Is Not Everything

By Dave Talbot

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Published: 26Aug2009
Word count: 733
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As most of us are very aware the UK and indeed the whole of the developed world is in the grip of the business destroying conditions of a worldwide recession.

However there are always a few markets that seem to be exempt manage to maintain not only their existing business levels but their growth rates too because of the huge public demand, and like many service markets the broadband internet sector is one such market.

Usage of broadband around the world and in particular in the UK is on a constant upward curve and as of May 2009 the UK rate of new connections stood around a 2% increase when compared to the same time last year and with an estimated consumer base in excess of 17 million customers connected around the UK.

If you haven't jumped on the broadband bandwagon yet or alternatively you're looking to switch providers, then there are a number of important key considerations you'll need to address in order to avoid any disappointment with your chosen provider.

One of these is level of customer service, and like any service you never really know how good the customer care aspect of a chosen provider will be until you have had a problem, so a good tip here is to ask around a few of your colleagues and friends.

What you need to be asking is how good was the level of service when you have made contact with the provider, as in reality this is the only guide, if your broadband is working then that does not necessarily mean you will get good service in your hour of need.

Luckily following just a few simple tips you should be able to make an informed decision that will result in the best possible broadband connection for your needs.

There are three main types of broadband available in the UK. The first and most common is ADSL which utilises your existing BT telephone line, so there's no need for any installation for most people.

There are also a huge number of broadband providers who can offer ADSL connections so there's always a chance of finding a bargain, with BT, Tiscali, Plusnet and BE leading the pack. Cable Broadband is the only land line alternative in the UK and uses an underground cable rather than an overhead wiring solution.

There is one important point to note here however that many providers will quote you an up to broadband speed but the actual speed of your broadband will be dictated by a number of factors one of which is your local exchange and the distance you are from it.

For example while broadband speed of up to 50Mbps may be available exchange and distance limitations may actually limit you to less than 5Mbps in reality so it is worth using a broadband speed checking service before you make a final commitment.

Virgin Media are the single UK operator for consumers and speeds of up to 50Mbps are available in certain areas. Mobile broadband is the final broadband option available and uses 3G mobile telephone networks rather than a fixed line.

This means that dependant on network coverage you can use mobile broadband anywhere in the country, and most major mobile networks offer mobile broadband.

So which broadband service will you use?

You really need to consider three things. First, what speed of broadband connection do you require? If you're going to just be checking your emails and browsing lightly then there's no point forking out the extra monthly cash for a super fast cable connection.

On the other hand if you're planning on streaming loads of high quality video and playing online games then you don't want a limited connection spoiling your fun.

Secondly you'll need to consider the services available in your area. ADSL is available in most homes with a phone line, but Cable is far more limited with just over 50% of UK households eligible. Mobile broadband availability depends on network coverage levels.

Finally there are the monthly costs. There are constantly new deals offered to attract new customers such as 3 months reduced cost or inclusion of free wireless routers and free online security suites.

The largest providers like BT, Tiscali and Virgin Media also offer additional services like digital TV and phone packages which will be cheaper when bundled with a broadband connection.

Dave Talbot is an avid computing enthusiast and writes articles for a number of computer and technology websites. If you would like to check your broadband connection speed, or your require further computing help, computer parts or Pc components visit => computerrepairuk.co.uk

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