Upgrading Your Broadband

Follow the 5 simple steps below on how to upgrade broadband for your home or business.

1. Check broadband availability in your area

There is no single broadband checker to find out which networks are available or which internet service providers (ISPs) are selling services.

Check availability using the links on our Availability Checker page. Use the postcode checker for each telecoms network provider to find out more about broadband availability at your address. You may have the choice of more than one network provider and potentially multiple ISPs.

If fibre is in your area, an upgrade to a faster service does not happen automatically. Contact your ISP to ask about an upgrade or shop around for the best deal for you.

 

2. Are you currently in a broadband contract?

Check your current broadband contract. Most contracts last between 12-24 months. You may need to see out the end of your contract before switching ISP or a cancellation fee may be payable.

If you wish to stay with your existing service provider, most will allow you to upgrade your contract to take up a faster service.

 

3. Find the right deal for you

There may be many or few ISPs to choose from. Not all ISPs provide services over all networks. We cannot offer advice on which service provider to choose. When considering your choices, you may wish to think about:

 

  • Speed – Some broadband packages cap download/upload speeds for a cheaper price.
  • Usage – Does the package offer unlimited downloads and data usage? Can you only download/upload a limited amount of data each month? If you use more than your limit in any month, it will cost you more money!
  • Contract length – e.g. 12, 18 or 24 months. This is the minimum period you’re tied in to before you can cancel or switch without penalty.
  • Extras – You may save money by combining with telephone, mobile or TV services.
  • Offers – There are lots of deals available. Some deals offer lower prices for the first few months. Make sure you know what price you will pay once the introductory offer finishes.

 

4. Select your broadband provider

There are many websites that allow you to compare broadband services and packages. Visit our Availability Checker page for some examples.

You may want to do your own Google search and shop around.

 

5. Place your order

Contact your chosen broadband provider to place your order.

The ISP may need to send an engineer to your home to complete the installation or you may receive equipment and instructions about how to connect.

 

No fixed broadband available – try Mobile Broadband or Satellite

You may be able to access faster broadband services via the mobile network. Visit Ofcom Mobile Availability Checker for information on expected indoor and outdoor data coverage from the four mobile network operators (Three, Vodafone, EE and O2). Alternatively, satellite broadband may provide access to faster services.  See out Telecoms Providers page for details of some satellite broadband providers.