Broadband in the UK

Overview

Broadband is a telecommunications technology which allows users to connect to the internet. As of January 2024, 97% of UK premises could access ‘superfast’ broadband, which is capable of download speeds of over 24 megabits per second.

‘Gigabit’ broadband is the next generation of broadband. It refers to any technology that can deliver download speeds of at least 1,000 megabits per second. The UK Government’s target is for gigabit broadband to be available to 85% of UK premises by 2025 and nationwide by 2030. As of January 2024, 78% of UK premises could access gigabit broadband.

While the benefits of better broadband are widely acknowledged, there have been concerns about the impact of deploying gigabit networks. For example, residents in some areas have complained about powers broadband companies have to erect telegraph poles without local consultation.

Some are also concerned about the affordability of broadband services, especially following the inflation-linked price increases that many internet service providers imposed between 2022 and 2024. Ofcom, the telecommunications regulator, has encouraged internet service providers to offer cheaper ‘social tariffs’ to individuals on certain benefits such as Universal Credit.

Latest research on broadband

Constituency data: broadband coverage and speeds

Browse local data to see how broadband connectivity and speeds vary in different parts of the UK
- Technology
Getting better broadband

This article addresses some frequently asked questions about access to full fibre broadband in the UK.
- Consumers
- Technology
Broadband in flats: The urban digital divide

Residents in urban flats often face poor broadband services. Some in the industry have argued that broadband companies should be given easier access to flats.
- Technology
Building broadband and mobile infrastructure

This briefing paper explains the rules for building telecommunications infrastructure such as 5G mobile masts, including planning rules and the Electronic Communications Code.
- Planning
- Technology
The withdrawal of landlines and switch to digital calls

This briefing addresses frequently asked questions about the switch of traditional landline phones to digital, Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) services.
- Technology