What is broadband?
Are you confused by the term ‘broadband’?
Don’t feel bad. It’s a complicated topic! But the good news is, it’s easy to get your head around the basics. In this guide for beginners, we’re going to help explain all.
First, we’ll be looking into what broadband does and why it matters to have access to a good broadband connection.
We’ll also be exploring the different types of broadband that exist in a simple, easy to understand way.
By the end of this page, you should be in a better position to make great decisions for your home. Not only should you be able to understand what broadband package and speed is best for you, you will also be able to avoid paying too much for a service you don’t need.
What does broadband mean?
Broadband has long been the generic term for a high-speed internet connection which allows you to access the web, email, streaming TV and other online services.
It was introduced as an upgrade to the “narrowband” dial-up connections of the 1990s and early 2000s.
Unlike these old dial-up connections which required you to connect and disconnect when you wanted to use it, broadband is an ‘always on’ service.
There are now several types of broadband, these include ADSL, Fibre, Full-Fibre, Cable and Mobile.
How does broadband work?
An internet service is supplied by an internet service provider (ISP). Data from this service allows you to carry out online tasks such as web browsing, watching video streams or downloading files.
To use a broadband service, you need a device that can connect to the internet and has software for accessing online services. This could be a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, or games console. A wireless router (Wi-Fi router) is the go-between, and allows your devices to connect, without cables, to access this internet data.
When it comes to delivering data to individual homes from the local network, some providers operate their own infrastructure, but this can be expensive. Because of this, many pay for access to a shared broadband network, such as BT Openreach or CityFibre.
For example, providers who deliver services through the Openreach network include popular names such as BT, Sky, TalkTalk and Vodafone.
But broadband doesn’t always need a fixed network line. For example, 4G or 5G Home broadband uses mobile phone networks.
Is broadband the same as Wi-Fi?
No. Wi-Fi is the wireless networking technology that means devices can connect to the internet without being plugged in.
Broadband is the internet connection and Wi-Fi is the wireless signal.
The majority of us access a broadband connection solely through Wi-Fi these days, rather than plugging in a physical cable–i.e, an Ethernet cable. In fact, for the fastest and most stable connection, using a wired connection is still recommended. However, Wi-Fi remains the more convenient option for most homes.
We’ve got lots more information about Wi-Fi. A good starting point is our guide to Wi-Fi and wireless broadband.
Types of broadband in the UK
ADSL
Typical Speeds: 11Mb
(Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) – a form of broadband that uses copper wires. By the end of January 2027, the copper telephone lines used for ADSL connections are set to be switched off.
Part-Fibre Broadband (FTTC - ‘Fibre-to-the-Cabinet’)
Typical Speeds: 35Mb-80Mb
A type of broadband that allows for faster speeds. Fibre optic cables replace copper cables from the local exchange to the street side cabinet. From there, copper lines complete the rest of the journey.
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Full-Fibre Broadband (FTTP- ‘Fibre-to-the-Premises’)
Typical Speeds: 100Mb-900Mb
A full fibre connection does away with copper cables and uses fibre optic cables throughout the data journey.
Cable Broadband
Typical Speeds: 36Mb-300Mb
A coaxial cable is used to connect to the street cabinet. This offers faster speeds than part-fibre, but not as fast or reliable as full-fibre.
Mobile Broadband (4G & 5G)
Typical Speeds: 14Mb-150Mb
A way of getting broadband without a fixed line. This uses the same signal as mobile phones, but you use a router or dongle to connect to the internet without wires. Speeds vary depending on signal and coverage.
Satellite broadband
Typical Speeds: 30Mb-50Mb
An option for customers in rural areas, albeit a pricy one. Satellite broadband requires a dish to be installed. A modem is then connected to this dish using wires. For more information, read our satellite broadband guide.
What is broadband used for?
A broadband connection provides you with access to everything you want from the internet. You’ll be able to send and receive emails, browse the web, stream music and video, plus a lot more. Basically, anything you want the internet for, you can do with broadband.
In the UK, we have access to a wide variety of services with different levels of performance. Almost every home and business can get high-speed internet access of 30Mb+, but many homes now have access to ultrafast speeds faster than 1Gb!
If you’re not sure what speed you need, or you want to know what you’re currently getting, our ultimate guide to broadband speeds can help.
Here’s a brief summary:
| Household size | Recommended speed |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 35Mb (Part-fibre) |
| 2-3 people | 35-64Mb |
| 4-5 people | 50-100Mb |
| 5+ people | 100+Mb (ultrafast broadband) |
How do I compare broadband?
There’s a wide range of broadband deals out there. But don't worry – Broadband Genie's job is to guide you through them and make finding the perfect deal for you simple. Here’s what to look out for as you compare deals:
Availability: Not all deals are available in all areas. Use a postcode checker to find out what’s available at your home.
Monthly price: This is how much you have to pay each month. Note, some providers raise their monthly prices annually, even for those still in contract.
Setup fee: A one-off charge for installation. There may also be an additional cost if you do not currently have an active phone or internet line.
Speed: Almost everyone in the UK will be able to get standard fibre with speeds of at least 30Mb+. Just remember that the download speeds and upload speeds advertised aren’t always what you’ll receive. Take care to check contract agreements for more accurate speed quotes before signing up.
Broadband bundles: Bundles can save you money by ordering telephone and TV deals alongside broadband.
Need more help finding the right package for you? We have a detailed broadband reviews section which covers a wide range of providers full of warts and all reviews from real customers.
The recap
‘Broadband’ is the term we use for high-speed internet. It’s a lot faster than ‘narrowband’, dial-up internet.
Most homes in the UK now have access to part-fibre broadband, but more are getting connected to even faster and more reliable full-fibre services every day. Alternatively, mobile broadband, satellite broadband or cable broadband from Virgin Media are options.
The availability of broadband packages can change quickly. We recommend that you go for fibre broadband if it’s available, and if you have the option, a 60-100Mb deal. Find these easily using our filters.
Do your results show you have don't have access to packages this fast? Over the next year or so, more homes will be able to sign up to fast, full fibre broadband.
The quickest and easiest way to check your broadband options is to use our quick and easy deals checker.
Find the best broadband deal in your area – enter your postcode now!