The UK’s broadband infrastructure is finally getting better with more homes now able to switch over to very impressive Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) technology. In fact, according to telecom regulator Ofcom, a record 20.7 million UK homes can now access so-called full-fibre broadband.
With that new service being beamed into homes, users can download movies and games at speeds of up to 1Gbps. That’s compared to the measly 70Mbps that ageing copper lines can muster. If that all sounds too geeky, as a quick guide, a full HD Hollywood blockbuster will take just 40 seconds to download using 1Gbps cables that’s compared to around 10 minutes using copper wires.
Along with more homes getting access to FTTP, it also seems more people are taking advantage of it. According to Ofcom’s latest stats, the number of households signed up to full-fibre broadband services – where available – has risen from 28 percent to 35 percent (7.5 million households) between May last year and July this year.
Speaking about the update, Natalie Black, Ofcom’s Networks and Communications Group Director, said: “It’s a record-breaking year for broadband in the UK, as the roll out of full fibre continues to steam ahead.
“Whether you’re running a business, streaming your favourite programmes, or doing Christmas shopping online, it’s more likely than ever that you’ll be able to benefit from a fast and reliable broadband connection”.
This boost means FTTP could be in your street but you’ll need to chat with your supplier to take advantage as it needs to be installed in your home to work.
BT’s Openreach has a handy postcode checker which shows if its cables are in your area. It’s also worth checking out other providers such as Virgin Media, Hyperoptic, CityFibre and Community Fibre to see if they have put their infrastructure outside your front door.
Just be aware that the faster the speeds you sign up for, the more you will pay. Speeds of 200Mbps will cost around £30 per month but switch to 1Gbps and you could face a bill of almost £50.
You should also think about the speeds you actually need. A single person who simply sends some emails will be fine with 30Mbps but a property packed with people watching movies, downloading games and working from home probably should consider getting at least 150Mbps.
Think of your broadband like a motorway, the traffic running through it the slower it gets – add more lanes and things get faster again.
