Phones, broadband and TV: internet service providers
Today's generation of internet users expect fast access, fast download speeds and a service that is "always-on". That means broadband, but there are a wide range of packages and technologies available.
When comparing internet service providers (ISPs), think about how you are likely to be using the Internet - whether it is mainly at off-peak times or you are a heavy user.
Then think about which type of pricing model will suit you best. The four main models are:
- A "subscription free" ("Pay as you go") tariff model. You only pay call charges for connecting to your ISP, and these are similar to the local call rate for a normal voice call. But technical support is often charged at quite high rates. So this option suits if you only require occasional access and you don't need much technical support
- A "partial flat rate" option, where call costs outside peak times and/or a set amount of hours are included in your subscription charge, but if you connect at peak times you are then charged at a cents per minute rate
- A "full flat rate" option. You pay a fixed amount each month, but this includes all your call costs for connecting to the Internet. This option may suit you if you spend a long time online, particularly at peak times. Some ISPs operate a "fair use" or "acceptable use" policy - if you are downloading huge amounts of data around the clock, they may intervene and caution you. Check if this is in the terms and conditions
- Broadband tariff options generally involve a fixed monthly charge, including a download allowance for that month. If you exceed your download allowance you are charged for each additional megabyte of data you download
After checking the tariff structures and comparing prices, consider other factors that may be important to you, such as speed and performance.
For instance, find out whether a broadband service has a high "contention ratio". This is the maximum number of subscribers that may share the connection, and gives a rough idea of how clogged up it could get. A contention ratio of 1:1 means you are guaranteed that you are the only person using the connection, but 48:1 means up to 48 users may be sharing it at any one time.
You will also need to consider:
- Any set-up charges
- Whether you have to buy extra equipment such as a modem, or this is included in the package
- Usage limits, and extra charges if you exceed these limits on downloads and uploads
- Whether the contract is for a set period (for example 12 months), or if it's ongoing and involves a charge if you cancel
- Whether you can switch between different tariff options
- Particular services you require such as technical help or parental controls
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