How to choose broadband

There are a lot of questions to ask when you are comparing broadband packages these include, "how fast is it?" "How long is the contract?"

Compare packages now home broadband

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 size package you want to choose.

• Beginner's broadband. If you are only starting out you will be looking for a package that's easy to set up, not too expensive and that 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 might be a big-time online gamer - 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, 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 USP slot on your laptop to access broadband speed internet access 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 what 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 to look for in a broadband package, once your speeds are over 2Mb you should be able 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 such as AOL are really getting in the spirit by offering broadband and free gifts including laptops and PS3 to subscribers.

1. Do I need a 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 - some LOVE it. 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 one line. If you are looking to pick up a laptop or PS3, we would recommend having a look at AOL's broadband deals and seeing if they fit your needs.

1. What software do I need to get broadband?

Internet security is important to most people, 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.