5 December 2008
Communications regulator Ofcom has launched a new voluntary code of practice for internet service providers (ISPs) regarding broadband speeds and translation of these to consumers.
The watchdog said ISPs representing 95% of the UK's broadband users have signed up to the code, which has been introduced in response to complaints over slower-than-advertised bandwidth.
It will require ISPs to give customers accurate estimates of the maximum speeds their broadband line will support and explain how these speeds may be affected by technical glitches.
They must also warn customers when they are about to exceed their monthly download allowances, preventing them from being hit with bigger-than-expected bills.
Anna Bradley, Chair of Ofcom's communications consumer panel, said the code will address "the mismatch between the speeds that consumers think they are buying and what they actually get".