How to choose broadband

There are a lot of factors to consider when comparing broadband packages. But perhaps the most important things to look at are "how fast is it?" "How long is the contract?"

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In order to answer those questions you need to know what you want. Below is a list of questions that will help you decide what package to choose.

1. What kind of broadband package do I want?

Answering this question will give you an idea of what kind of package to choose.

• 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 because 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, 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.
• Family broadband. With more and more devices like laptops and gaming consoles connecting to the internet, families have specific needs that are best catered for by certain providers.

1. What broadband is available in my area?

If you are living in an urban area, the chances are you will be able to access most of the packages listed on this site. If you are living in a more rural area, however, you should check which Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are available in your area by entering your postcode into our postcode checker.

1. Do I want fast broadband?

With everyone talking about fast broadband these days 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 over 2Mb are easily sufficient to carry out most online activities without problems. Fast broadband appeals, however, to those looking to download large files, such as movies, songs and games, on a regular basis.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. What software do I need to get broadband?

Internet security should be a priority for everyone. With viruses entering computers from dodgy sites, email attachments and disks, 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 here.