The UK should boast broadband penetration of over 60 per cent by the year 2012, according to a new report.

Research from industry analyst Gartner suggests that Britain, along with 16 other countries, will see well over half its population enjoying the benefits of a broadband connection in four years time.

On a global scale, the number of worldwide consumer connections is expected to rise from 323 million to 499 million over the same period.

Principal research analyst at the firm, Amanda Sabia, said: "Broadband penetration will increase, especially in the geographically larger markets, as current broadband providers continue to deploy their services, as newer technologies (wireless broadband, such as WiMAX) attract subscribers and as users experience first-hand how speed enhances their internet sessions."

Gartner has reported that some countries will see broadband penetration levels of over 80 per cent by 2012, these nations are likely to have governments which have invested heavily in broadband infrastructure.