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Broadband Packages

What is broadband · Broadband types · Speed and performance · Usage and costs · Package combinations

Many ISPs now offer numerous other services in addition to broadband internet such as freebies and landline rental. These package combinations, or bundles, commonly consist of a broadband connection sold alongside a home or mobile phone service.

Broadband and phone packages

Broadband/phone packages usually provide users with cheap or free anytime UK landline calls, or additional mobile minutes and texts. Some even come with the phone’s monthly line rental included.

Other freebies that are offered by some providers include digital TV subscription, anti-virus software and free internet equipment such as a modem or wireless router.

In order to decide whether a package bundle is value for money, you must first look at the costs you pay to different providers for the extra services that are being offered as part of the broadband package (landline rental, phone call costs, etc), and compare the total cost with the price of the bundled offering to see if there are savings to be made.

Length of contract

Most broadband providers offer 12 or 18 month contract terms. As with other contracts, if you wish to cancel before the end of the contractual term you will have to pay a cancellation fee. Details on termination charges and other contract terms and conditions are included in the small print.

Some ISPs offer contracts without a minimum term clause attached. These are ideal for internet users who plan on moving house within a year, or those who will be living at different addresses during the contract term.

In addition, there are also some broadband providers who specialise in providing smaller contracts of 3 months to students and people living in rented accommodation.

Costs

The main cost of broadband internet is a flat monthly fee that is charged by providers in exchange for a constant, fast internet connection.  

Your fixed monthly fee is likely to be quit high if you choose a broadband package with a high or unlimited monthly usage allowance, or one with a very fast connection. It is also important to remember that your monthly charge may increase if you choose a package with a monthly usage limit and you exceed that limit during the month.

Other broadband costs may involve a one-off fee for a modem, wireless router, or installation of services. Most suppliers offer a free modem or wireless router and recover the cost in the monthly fee you pay. 

Cable companies and providers of bundled broadband/phone/TV packages usually charge a fee for an engineer to carry out the broadband installation at your home.

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