What broadband speed do I need?

When we talk about broadband speed, we’re referring to how quickly data can be uploaded or downloaded when using an internet connection.

Most individuals focus on download speeds when they compare broadband packages. This is because the average user will download more data than they upload. Downloads can refer to files that contain music, movies or photos.

Businesses may need to consider fast download speeds as well as fast upload speeds because they are more likely to upload and share large files frequently.

Broadband speed is measured in Mbps (megabits per second) and Kbps (kilobits per second). A bit is the smallest unit of data that can be transferred, so the higher the number of bits per second, the faster your broadband connection will be. Here’s a breakdown of the measurements:

• 1 Kbps: 1,000 bits per second
• 1 Mbps: 1,000,000 bits per second

When comparing broadband deals, pay attention to how many Kbps or Mbps you get and at what cost.

Download Speed

This measures how quickly data is transferred from the internet to your device. It’s the primary speed to consider for activities like streaming videos, browsing websites, and downloading files. Most broadband packages highlight the download speed because it directly impacts the quality of most online activities.

Upload Speed

This measures how quickly data is sent from your device to the internet. Upload speed is important for activities such as video conferencing, uploading large files, and online gaming. While often lower than download speeds in many broadband packages, a good upload speed is essential for a smooth experience when performing any of the above activities.

When comparing broadband deals, pay attention to the advertised download and upload speeds, as well as the cost. Ensure the package meets your specific needs, whether it’s for everyday browsing, streaming, or more demanding tasks like gaming and video conferencing.

Before figuring out how much broadband speed you need, you may want to confirm your current connection speed (if you already have an internet connection, that is). This can give you a good indication what you might want and how much faster your broadband needs to be to adequately meet your needs.

There are two ways to determine your current broadband speed:

• You can look at your current agreement with your provider. Your monthly bill should reflect the minimum speed you are getting. Alternatively, you can phone your supplier and they will give you this information.
• You can do a speed test online. There are many websites that allow you to test your broadband speed.  These tests work by sending data to and from a main server. They then time how quickly the data completes the round-trip. The result give you the exact current speed of your internet connection.

It’s good practice to regularly test the speed of your broadband connection. This way, you can always make sure that you are getting what you pay for.

A good broadband speed will depend on your personal preferences and how you use the internet. Typically, you can divide internet users and their speed requirements into 3 categories:

• Light users: If you need a broadband connection to check your emails, do your online banking, and browse just a little, then you are a light user and your broadband speed can be kept minimal.
• Medium users: If you use the internet frequently for social media, browsing the net, and catching up on the latest episode of your favourite series over and above the internet basics, then you’re considered a medium user. Medium users will need a slightly faster connection than light users.
• Heavy users: If you use the internet for a significant amount of time, then you can be considered a heavy user. Heavy users are those who do peer-to-peer file sharing, online gaming or stream films and music.

To determine how much broadband speed you need, you may also want to consider the usage requirement of everyone in your household or office. This is because the number of people using the connection can affect the overall broadband speed.

It’s important to note that while broadband deals mention certain speeds, this isn’t necessarily the speed you will get. The measurement advertised is the maximum speed that will be available to you and there are many internal and external factors that could reduce the final speed-type you receive.

Boosting your broadband speed can significantly enhance your online experience. Here are some key strategies to improve your connection:

• Optimise Router Placement: Position your router centrally in your home or elevate it on a shelf or mount it on a wall to minimise interference from furniture and walls.
• Update and Upgrade Equipment: Regularly update your router’s firmware to enhance performance and security. If your router is outdated, consider upgrading to a newer model that supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6.
• Use Wired Connections: For devices requiring a stable connection, like gaming consoles and desktop computers, use Ethernet cables instead of Wi-Fi.
• Reduce Wi-Fi Interference: Adjust your router’s settings to switch to a less congested Wi-Fi channel. Use the 5 GHz band for higher speeds and less interference compared to the 2.4 GHz band.
• Enhance Network Coverage: If certain areas of your home have weak Wi-Fi signals, consider using Wi-Fi extenders or upgrading to a mesh Wi-Fi system to ensure consistent coverage throughout your home.

A good internet speed is one that averages above 25 Mbps. This is enough speed to support modest online activity for a small family or office. This type of speed will support HD streaming, online gaming, music downloads, and general web browsing.

Faster broadband speeds are measured above 100 Mbps. This speed is recommended to those who have larger households or offices or if the connection needs to support many users or devices at once.

Several factors can impact your broadband speed, influencing the performance and reliability of your internet connection:

• Router Placement: Positioning your router centrally and away from obstructions can improve signal strength and coverage.
• Network Congestion: High usage during peak times can slow down your connection due to increased demand on the network.
• Distance from the Exchange: For ADSL connections, being further from the telephone exchange can result in slower speeds due to signal degradation over copper lines.
• Type of Connection: Fibre optic connections (FTTC or FTTP) typically offer faster speeds compared to ADSL, which relies on older copper lines.
• Wi-Fi Interference: Electronic devices, thick walls, and other Wi-Fi networks can interfere with your signal, reducing speed.
• Number of Connected Devices: Multiple devices using the internet simultaneously can strain bandwidth and reduce speed.
• Quality of Equipment: Older routers and cables may not support higher speeds, so upgrading equipment can improve performance.
• ISP Throttling: Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) may intentionally slow down your connection during times of high traffic or if you exceed certain data limits.
• Background Applications: Applications running in the background, such as cloud backups or software updates, can consume bandwidth and affect speed.
• Malware and Viruses: Malware or viruses on your devices can consume bandwidth and slow down your internet connection.

Yes, the area you live in can significantly impact your broadband speed.

In urban areas, you’re more likely to have access to high-speed fibre optic networks, resulting in faster and more reliable internet. Urban locations typically benefit from better broadband infrastructure, which includes newer technologies and higher speeds.

Rural areas, on the other hand, often rely on older ADSL technology, which can be slower. The distance from the telephone exchange or the street cabinet can also affect speed. In ADSL connections, the further you are from the exchange, the slower your connection may be due to signal degradation over copper lines. Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC) connections also experience speed drops over longer distances, though the impact is less severe than with ADSL.

Local network congestion can also influence your broadband speed. Areas with many internet users may experience slower speeds during peak times due to high demand on the network.

What's more, the availability of broadband providers varies by location. Some areas have fewer provider options, limiting choices for higher-speed packages. However, new local providers are emerging, especially in rural areas, offering high-speed connections and improving overall broadband speed availability.

Before making your purchase, it’s wise to compare quotes from different providers to find a deal that is both suited to your needs and your budget. You can use our online quote comparison tool to save time when sourcing the best broadband deals. Simply fill in just a few of your details and we will request quotes from service providers in your area on your behalf. We’ll then send you quotes in a user-friendly format so that you can research the information to make your ultimate choice.