We live in a technology-oriented age. No home or office can afford to be without broadband, but how can you make an informed choice as to which broadband provider to go with? Fortunately, there are some very basic steps that when taken will help you find the right broadband provider that meets your budget and needs.
Consider Your Usage and Speed Requirements
We all have different broadband usage and speed requirements. People who use the internet a great deal, for example office workers or professionals working from home, should check for broadband deals that offer unlimited usage. Families that seldom download online content and primarily use the internet for browsing may save money by opting for a limited usage broadband deal.
The speed available for your broadband will depend on the cabling in your area. Areas with only telephone cables are restricted to slower ADSL broadband services. Some areas, such as cities, have fibre optic cabling, which can deliver faster (up to six times) broadband and cable television. Use the area code entry feature on individual broadband provider sites and comparison sites to check the available speeds in your vicinity. Regardless of what your internet service provider says your ‘up to’ speed is, most people realise they have much lower speeds.
Here’s a recent video highlighting the problems faced by many people in the UK
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Kq89IEBxLQ]
Decide Whether You Need a Broadband Only or Bundle Deal
The majority of broadband providers now offer broadband bundle packages with a range of extra features included alongside broadband only deals. Take a good look at what the bundle packages include and measure each extra against your needs.
Do you already have a phone? Is the overall price of a phone included bundle deal more competitive? Would a cable TV or satellite TV contract be worth the extra money based on your viewing needs and habits? The combination of different services within one bundle package can often save you money, but it is wise to weigh this against the use you will make of them.
Use a Comparison Site to Find the Best Broadband Deal in Your Area
While visiting individual broadband provider sites will enable you to get a good overview of their range of offers, a less time consuming option is to use a comparison site, which sets deals beside each other to compare broadband deals in your area. These sites are extremely helpful in that they rate various top broadband deals based on your specific budget and requirements and are an invaluable tool that cuts down the amount of research browsing necessary.
Take All the Costs into Account
Different broadband providers charge varying prices for such things as broadband equipment and installation. Use a broadband comparison site toweigh up the benefitsof each deal against one another. Is it worth paying more for a powerful hub if you have a large house with numerous users? Are you technically proficient enough to set up the broadband, thereby avoiding installation costs charged by an engineer? Investing time and effort into considering these factors could save you money.
Be Aware of Deal Switch Prices
If you decide you would benefit from switching broadband deals be sure to check whether there will be costs charged by your existing broadband provider. If your provider has not been keeping up their part of the bargain, you may be able to escape your contract without charge although people in the UK often need the intervention of the ombudsman to push this through.
Many broadband providers will offer a more competitive price and package to retain you as a customer, so it never hurts to call them and inform them of your intention to switch. It is a competitive market in which an enquiry or notification of dissatisfaction can truly pay dividends.
Following these 5 simple steps will enable you, your family or your workforce to enjoy the benefits of the best value broadband deals in your area.
