Better broadband deals

Best for media-sharers
What to look for: Fast download and upload speeds; no usage cap

If you frequently share music, videos and photos over the web, then you should choose an ISP that meets your current and future internet requirements in terms of both speed and volume.

Many of the cheaper packages impose download restrictions and will charge you, throttle your connection or terminate your account if you exceed the specified limit. Even ‘unlimited’ deals often have a fair usage policy that means you’ll need to monitor your time online carefully.

As Broadband Choices points out in its article Fair Usage Broadband – Is It Really Fair?: "While you might not be downloading anything like 20GB a month now, film downloads, internet television and legal peer-to-peer networks like the BBC iPlayer are all set to massively increase the amount we download."

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Best for students
What to look for: Short contract; no line rental

The internet now forms an integral part of higher education, but with tuition fees higher than ever, most students can’t afford ‘premium’ web access. They may also be reluctant to commit to lengthy contracts when they might not stay the course (literally) or require the service for more than nine months out of 12.

Several ISPs offer short-contract broadband, although this is usually offset by a connection fee and the need to buy a modem or router. One other factor to be aware of when comparing student broadband packages is line rental. Students may also benefit from a mobile broadband deal or broadband bundles

Best for novices
What to look for: Supplied hardware and software; free technical support

Everybody has to start somewhere when it comes to the web – few people dive straight into configuring wireless networks and optimising their bandwidth. If you’re new to all things broadband, a beginner-friendly package will get you up and running and save you time, money and hassle. 

Best for people on a budget
What to look for: Free or inclusive line rental, phone and TV bundles

In these credit crunch-tastic times, it’s good to know that you can offset the rising cost of food and energy with cheaper internet access. Broadband packages are at their lowest prices ever, and some providers are even promoting ‘free’ deals – with conditions.

Best for people on the move
What to look for: Mobile broadband deals with a decent download limit

Accessing the web on the move no longer involves wasting time and money squinting at WAP sites. The last year has seen a massive increase in the availability and popularity of mobile broadband, resulting in a highly-competitive market that gives roaming web users plenty of choice.

To enjoy mobile broadband, you simply plug a USB modem or ‘dongle’ into your laptop and connect to your provider’s 3G network. Speeds are generally very good – theoretically you can get downloads of up to 7.2Mbps and uploads of up to 2Mbps - provided you’re within a coverage area. Usage allowances can be tight, but there’s no charge for line rental.

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Best for people in remote locations
What to look for: Two-way satellite broadband; mobile broadband if available

It’s easy to forget that not all areas in the UK are yet covered by ADSL or cable or are too far from an exchange or mast to receive a satisfactory service. If you live in a remote or rural location in which broadband isn’t available, it’s worth considering satellite access. Although this is a lot more expensive than other types of broadband – especially as you’ll need to buy and install a satellite dish – as it covers the whole country you’ll at least have a guaranteed means of getting online.

Satellite broadband comes in two forms: one-way, which is adequate for downloading files and everyday surfing but not much use for uploading data, and two-way, which provides a speedy link in both directions. Each has advantages and disadvantages – the latter costs more but is faster and more flexible, while both methods are affected by adverse weather conditions. 

Best for home or small offices
What to look for: Efficient customer service; static IP address

If you run your own home business or small office, it’s not only essential to have a fast, reliable broadband connection but to have instant access to technical help when needed. Time is money, after all.

Best for Mac users
What to look for: Mac-compatible hardware; Mac technical support

Although broadband itself isn’t system-specific, the majority of providers assume that you’re using a PC. This can obviously cause problems for Apple Mac users, who are supplied with modems and routers incompatible with their machines, and find it difficult to get technical support. 

Best for telly addicts
What to look for: Broadband and TV bundles; generous download limit

With more channels than ever and all the major broadcasters offering online catch-up services, there’s never been a better time to be a couch potato. As well as being able to watch your favourite programmes when you want, you can save money by choosing a TV and broadband bundle.

Compare the latest broadband prices and packages