How to choose broadband

There are a lot of factors to consider when comparing broadband packages, but perhaps the most important are speed, cost and contract length. With so many providers, contracts, offers and packages to choose from, the first step is to know exactly what you need.

What kind of broadband package do I want?

• Beginner's broadband. If you are just starting out, it's likely that you're looking for a package that's easy to set up, not too expensive and offers good customer support.

• Heavy-Use broadband. You know if you are a heavy-user if you enjoy downloading oodles of songs and movies using peer-to-peer software, or you're a big fan of online gaming. Either way, our heavy-use packages are the ones to look out for.

• Business broadband. These packages differ from consumer deals as they offer extras like static/fixed-IPs, webspace and email addresses as well as routers and secuity suites.

• Mobile broadband. If you access the Internet primarily from your laptop, then mobile broadband is an option worth considering - whether to be used at home or on the go. Mobile broadband providers will send you a 'dongle' (modem) that you plug into the USB slot on your laptop to access the Internet, at broadband speeds, wherever there's mobile phone coverage.

More recently MiFi dongles have arrived too, which allow you to share a single mobile broadband connection between multiple web enabled devices simultaneously.

• Family broadband. With more and more devices like laptops, tablets, TVs, set-top boxes and gaming consoles connecting to the Internet, families have specific needs that are best catered for by certain providers.

Considerations

What kinds of broadband are available in my area?
If you live in a city, built-up area or one of the "test-towns" that companies use for their new technologies, then it's very likely you will have access to nearly every package on the uSwitch site. If, however, you live in a more rural location, you should check which Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operate in your area, and whether there are any limitations to what is on offer.

You can use the uSwitch broadband postcode checker to see which packages are available, but always double check with the provider as availability always changes.

Fast broadband?
With everyone talking about megabits and download times, you may think that speed is all there is to look for in a broadband package. That's true to a certain extent, but it's also worth remembering that connection speeds of over 2Mbps are easily sufficient to carry out most online activities without problems.

A regular broadband connection of 8Mbps will allow you to email, share pictures, YouTube, Facebook and play games. Fast broadband appeals mainly to those who download more or less constantly and have very demanding applications.

What do I need to get broadband?
Many ISPs offer free wireless routers with their packages, but others have really pushed the boat out by offering broadband and free gifts, including laptops and games consoles, to subscribers.

Do I need free phone calls with my broadband package? Bundling your telephone and broadband packages can save you money and time - take a look at our broadband and home phone packages.

Do I need digital TV with my broadband?

Some people aren't that fussed about digital TV, but others love the sheer range of viewing choice it gives them. If you identify yourself with the latter party, you would do well to consider a broadband and digital TV package.

What hardware do I need to get broadband?

As noted earlier, many ISPs provide free wireless routers with their packages. These are handy if you have multiple devices, such as laptops and gaming consoles, connecting to a single line.

What software do I need to get broadband?

Internet security should be a priority for everyone. With viruses able to infect computers from visiting dodgy sites, opening email attachments and downloading files, it is imperative to have a level of protection for your computer. As with wireless routers, security suites are included in most broadband packages.

Compare all the best broadband deals at uSwitch now.