Contracts, speeds, price rises, switching and your rights around broadband and phone services.
What do you need to work out?
Pick the closest match. Each path leads to a curated cluster of guides.
I'm looking to switch
When and how to move provider without losing service.
4 guides →My bill keeps going up
Mid-contract rises, the price cap, what you can do.
6 guides →My broadband isn't fast enough
Speeds, full-fibre, what you're entitled to.
4 guides →I want to leave my provider
Exit fees, notice periods, your rights.
2 guides →Editor’s picks
See all 16 guides →Key Guide
4 guidesCore Guide
4 guidesDeep Dive
4 guidesSupport & Rights
2 guidesThe full library
Showing 16 of 16 guidesChoosing the Right Broadband Package
• ADSL, FTTC, FTTP options • Speed tiers from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps • Contract lengths vary • Check minimum guaranteed speeds • Compare total cost including rises
Core GuideMesh WiFi Systems Explained
• Multiple nodes improve coverage • Better than single router extenders • Ideal for large homes • Requires good base broadband • Can improve reliability
Support & RightsSocial Tariffs Explained
• Social tariffs are discounted broadband or mobile plans for people on qualifying benefits • Prices are significantly lower than standard contracts • Most social tariffs have no mid-contract price rises • Speeds are typically sufficient for everyday use • You can switch to or from a social tariff without penalty
Deep DiveBroadband Speed Guarantees Explained
• Advertised speeds are averages • Minimum guaranteed speeds must be disclosed • You can exit contracts if speeds consistently fall below minimum • WiFi speed differs from line speed
Core GuideData-Only SIMs Explained
• No calls or texts included • Used in tablets, routers, dongles • Available on monthly or long-term contracts • 4G and 5G options • Check fair usage policies
Deep DiveVoIP & Landline Switch-Off Explained
• The old copper landline network is being retired • All landlines will move to digital VoIP • Phones will connect via your broadband router • Power cuts may disrupt service without backup • Vulnerable users must be offered additional support
Key GuideUnderstanding Broadband Speeds
• Speed is measured in Mbps (megabits per second) • Download and upload speeds differ • Latency affects gaming and video calls • More speed does not always mean better WiFi • Households often overestimate speed needed
Deep DiveUK Digital Switchover Timeline
• PSTN retiring by 2025 • Copper lines replaced by digital networks • Broadband required for landlines • Fibre rollout expanding nationwide • Vulnerable customer support available
Core GuideeSIM Explained
• eSIM is embedded SIM technology • No physical SIM required • Allows multiple network profiles • Ideal for travel and switching • Not all devices support eSIM
Key GuideFibre Broadband Explained
• FTTC uses fibre to the cabinet, then copper to your home • FTTP (full fibre) uses fibre all the way to your property • Full fibre is faster and more reliable than copper-based broadband • Advertised speeds differ from minimum guaranteed speeds • Installation requirements vary depending on property type
Support & RightsTroubleshooting Common Broadband Problems
• Restarting equipment fixes many issues • WiFi problems are often signal-related, not line-related • Use wired tests to check true line speed • Check service status before contacting provider • Providers must meet minimum speed guarantees in many cases
Deep DiveSatellite Internet Explained
• Delivered via satellite dish • Available in remote areas • Higher latency than fibre • Often more expensive • Installation required
Core GuidePhone Financing & Upgrade Contracts Explained
• Handset cost often financed over 24–36 months • Total cost higher than buying outright in some cases • Early exit can trigger remaining handset payments • SIM-only often cheaper long term • Upgrade schemes vary by provider
Core GuideInternational Calling Charges Explained
• International calls are charged separately from roaming • Landline and mobile rates differ significantly • Calls outside Europe can be expensive • Add-on bundles may reduce cost • VoIP and internet calling alternatives may be cheaper
Key GuideBusiness Broadband Explained
• Business broadband offers stronger reliability commitments • SLAs may guarantee faster fault repair • Upload speeds and static IPs often included • Contracts may be longer • Prices are typically higher than residential
Core GuideRoaming Charges Explained
• Roaming charges apply when using your phone abroad • EU free roaming is no longer guaranteed • Data usage can be expensive outside allowances • Fair use limits often apply • Always check your provider before travel