Virgin Media to Launch 100Mb Broadband This Year
Virgin Media broadband has announced plans to release a 100Mb service, 24 times quicker than average speeds. The service, planned to be up and running by the end of 2010, is the UK’s biggest jump in speed capability ever, and will open up a whole new dimension of internet usage.
The new 100Mb service means users will be able to download -
- music album in as little as 5 seconds
- hour long TV show in 31 seconds
- HD movie in 7 minutes 25 seconds
The new speed tier will provide Virgin Media customers with the fastest internet on the planet, perfect for tech-savvy users. Virgin Media already lead the market in broadband services, and have already increased their top tier broadband from 20Mb to 100Mb in less than two years. That’s some fast work in more ways than one!
Thanks to it’s fibre optic cable network, Virgin Media has been providing next generation internet speeds to over 12 million homes throughout the UK. Plus with their cable networking, Virgin Media are one of the few companies who can actually deliver close to their advertised speeds.
Virgin Media’s chief executive officer, Neil Berkett, said -
There is nothing we can’t do with our fibre optic cable network, and the upcoming launch of our flagship 100Mb service will give our customers the ultimate broadband experience. Just as we led the way by launching the UK’s first ever next generation service, we want to keep giving our customers the very best broadband available, by investing in technological innovation and transforming the experience they have when they are online. The launch of Virgin Media’s 100Mb service will be a historic moment and will mean the UK will be comparable to other leading broadband nations.
Virgin Media will also be looking to recruit hundreds of customers to test their pilot 200Mb service in Coventry, which began work in Kent last year. The pilot system will be focusing on future technologies such as home teleconferencing and downloading HD programmes on-demand. All of these programmes will demand super high speeds, but it appears that Virgin Media have all this in hand!
> > Click here to order Virgin Media broadband
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
O2 Mobile Broadband Tops Fastest Mobile Broadband Speed Poll
O2 mobile broadband has been recognised as offering the fastest speeds in the country by independent study group SIRODA, who provide expert analysis across a wide range of communication technologies. The results of their comprehensive 60 day survey across 150 UK locations, compared the data speeds of all five major UK mobile broadband providers.
The results showed that O2 offered the fastest average web access in London at 1.7 seconds, which was 30% quicker than the slowest provider. O2 mobile broadband also achieved the fastest music download rate in 12 out of 20 UK cities, with tests conducted at peak periods throughout the day in London, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle and Sheffield.
Derek McManus, Chief Technology Officer for O2, said -
We’re very pleased with these conclusive findings, which have been independently verified. Our London customers are now seeing the benefits of the investment we made before Christmas, where we spent £30m delivering 40 new sites. Outside London, where network quality is shown to be strong, we continue to scale our investment and have committed to deliver a further 1500 new sites by the end of this year, building ahead of the demand for data services.
O2 mobile broadband is not only one of the quickest, but also one of the cheapest, with prices starting from just £2 a day. Plus with unlimited free Wi-Fi in over 7500 UK hotspots, it’s easy to see why more and more people are changing to O2 broadband.
> > Click here to order O2 mobile broadband
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Virgin Media Customers can Surf Abroad with New Travel Passes
Virgin Media mobile broadband has just released ‘EU Travel Passes’ for customers who want to surf the net whilst abroad. The passes, which start at just £6 per day, will offer customers great value for money when using their mobile internet and broadband to surf anywhere in the EU.
There is four different choices of mobile broadband EU Travel Passes, which allow customers to access data for -
- 1 day = £10 for 10MB
- 3 days = £15 for 15MB
- 7 days = £30 for 30MB
- 30 days = £6 for 60MB
So now Virgin Media customers can stay online whilst they are away on business or pleasure without running up any unexpected bills. Customers can also purchase internet passes for their mobile phones whilst abroad for £4 an hour or £6 for a day.
Director of mobile at Virgin Media, Jonathan Kini, said -
Virgin Media customers never have to worry about accessing the internet while they’re abroad. Whether it’s searching for the best pizzeria in Rome on your mobile or uploading photos onto Facebook with a laptop and mobile broadband, customers now have control over what they spend on holiday.
> > Click here to order Virgin Mobile broadband
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Save £29.99 With Talk Talk Free Connection Offer
Talk Talk broadband has extended it’s free connection offer on their Essential and Pro tariffs. This great deal will save you a tasty £29.99, and with package prices starting at just £6.99 a month with up to 24Meg download speeds, now is a great time to choose Talk Talk as your service provider.
The £6.99 Talk Talk Essentials Package features -
- up to 8Meg
- 40GB download allowance
- Evening & weekend calls to UK landlines
- Unlimited local calls, anytime
- Free technical & customer support
- Free wireless ‘G’ router
Whilst the £14.99 Talk Talk Pro Package features -
- Up to 24Meg
- Unlimited download allowance
- Anytime calls to UK landlines
- Calls to UK mobiles for 7p/min flat rate + call connection
- Free technical & customer support
- Free wider range wireless ‘N’ router
Both of these great deals are available on 18 month contracts when ordered with a Talk Talk phone line for £11.49 per month. So why not order online today and pick up one of the cheapest packages on the market and save yourself an extra £29.99?
> > Click here to order online with Talk Talk broadband
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
Quick Guide To Choosing A Broadband Plan
If you are relatively unsophisticated as far as computers go, that is, you can turn your computer on, check your email, browse a few sites, but do very little more than that, then choosing the right internet plan can be a little confusing. Hell it can be a little confusing for even the sophisticated amongst us! There are many things one needs to consider when choosing a broadband plan and we have noted the key ones below.
What kind of broadband package suits you
There are a number of types of package available and determining the type of user you are is the most critical element in determining which package is most suitable for you.
- Beginner’s Broadband
If you don’t happen to be a heavy internet user, or you have finally stumped up and bought a computer, then chances are you want a package that is fairly easy to get set up, and offers healthy customer support. - Heavy-Usage Broadband
So you download tons of music, watch a helluva lot of youtube, engage in file-sharing (heaven forbid) or play multiplayer online games, then ideally you would be looking for the kind of package that supports that kind of usage, and doesn’t cost a fortune. - Business Broadband
If you want to get an office connected, with multiple users, then really you would be best off looking for a package which differs from a general consumer connection. You might want static IP addresses, you may need routers, and the ISP to help manage some of your security issues, and business broadband connections offer the kind of mix one would expect or require. - Mobile Broadband
If you log on to the internet from a laptop or you would like to use your mobile phone, then clearly mobile broadband is an option you need to consider. Signing up for this type of connection from a mobile phone service provider, will allow you to access the internet wherever there is mobile phone coverage through a dongle, which is connected to your laptop through a USB device.
What broadband is available in your area?
Most people who live in urban areas will have no problems being able to avail the packages that have been discussed. If you find yourself living in a more rural area, then you will have to check what internet service provider offers services in your area, and that can be found out by using our postcode checker.
Do you want fast broadband?
Bigger usually means better, and in the world of broadband that means faster. Fast internet connections are technically speaking nice to have, but they are like a Ferrari. Ferrari’s are great if you have a track you can race it on. If you need a car to get you from point A to point B on regular roads where there is traffic, then there is only so fast you can go. In fact many of the speeds offered by ISP’s like 20Mbps are not achievable in a single download, in order to use all the bandwidth you have at your disposal, you would need to be doing a lot of things simultaneously.
In actual fact to do most things on the internet you don’t actually need an internet connection speed faster than 2Mbps. If however you know you are going to be downloading a lot, or playing a load of online multiplayer games, then obviously having a faster internet connection is better.
What hardware do you need to get broadband?
All you need is a computer to access the internet, most ISP’s will provide modems, and in this day and age many are even throwing in modems and wireless routers. This is especially useful if you use multiple devices to access the internet, particularly if you use a desktop a laptop and have a gaming console, all of which can be connected through the router to the internet using a single connection. Some providers are even pushing the envelope and are offering free laptops or games consoles to new subscribers, though those type of deals are very limited and few and far between.
Do you need free phone calls with your broadband package?
Bundling your telephone package with your internet subscription is a great way to save money, and more importantly it saves time, and you should check out the packages some of the national ISP’s have.
Do you need digital TV with your broadband?
It is not completely necessary to include a television package with your internet connection, but honestly speaking, the sheer number of channels it gives you access to, can make it really worth your while. If you are bored with a limited selection of channels, bundling digital television with your internet connection is something you should definitely consider and you can also get your broadband for cheaper when bundling.
What software do you need to get broadband?
Once you connect to the internet the biggest single concern is the threat of viruses. There is no real software per say, you need a browser obviously for surfing, but you should invest in some decent antivirus software to ensure that your computer is protected. Some broadband providers even go as far as to provide free antivirus software with their service and that is definitely worth checking into, before you sign up to a package.
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
What Is The Difference Between ADSL And Cable Internet Access
What is Broadband
Broadband is a term that refers to high speed internet access, or to be specific a fast data transmission. Technically speaking any customer who has an internet connection of 256 kbps is a broadband customer. Previously consumers who wanted to access the internet used to use a modem with a dial-up connection, so we would add a little caveat that a broadband connection also means that you are always connected to the internet, and the need for dial up is unnecessary.
Though how the internet is accessed varies from country to country and the last definition should be treated loosely.
What Is DSL Internet Connection?
Simply put a DSL connection uses copper wire for data transmission to the last mile. In fact DSL is often referred to as “last mile technology”. This is because the DSL connection occurs from the telephone switching station to the consumer, whether that is in the home or office.
DSL connections are also “always on” unlike previous dial up connections, the DSL utilizes dual copper wires for connection to the telephone exchange, which means the customer can use their internet connection or their telephone without worrying about tying up the line. The need for dialing up the ISP does not exist because DSL is always on.
There are two main types of DSL connections
- ADSL
ADSL is the most common type of DSL connection and for the train spotters amongst us stands for asymmetric digital subscriber line. ADSL supports fairly fast download speed (also know as downstream speed) of between 1.5 Mbps to 24 Mbps, the upload (or upstream speed) however is not as fast and supports speeds of between 16 to 640 Kbps. ADSL connections require special modems. - SDSL
Whilst ADSL is common in the UK, SDSL is still far more prevalent throughout Europe and stands for symmetric digital subscriber line. SDSL is slower than its counterpart and supports speeds of up to 3 Mbps, but as its name suggests supports symmetric upload and download speeds. Unlike ADSL however the user cannot use the internet at the same time as they use the phone.
What Is a Cable Internet Connection?
Cable internet means using television cabling to connect to the internet, Using a special cable modem, broadband internet access can be obtained using cable television lines. Cable internet works by using space on the line designed for television channels for data transmission instead. Certain channels are allocated for downloading, whilst other channels are used for uploading.
- Cable television uses coaxial cable as the last mile which allows faster data transmission or much greater bandwidth compared to wire used in telephone lines.
- Coaxial cable is a type of wire that consists of a centre wire surrounded by insulation and then a grounded shield of braided wire. The shield minimizes electrical and radio frequency interference.
- Cable modems can be used to obtain very fast internet access, and given that in places like America, many homes are already connected, is a service that cable television companies are very keen to offer.
In countries like the UK, where cable television was less prevalent than in America, companies such as Virgin Media have laid cable using the latest fibre optic technology, and at the time of writing fibre optic technology allows information to be transmitted at speeds of up to 50Meg!
Cable vs. DSL: The Speeds
The argument over which offers faster speeds is a hotly debated topic, it is hard to declare an outright winner, for a couple of reasons.
Technically speaking Cable internet access is much faster than regular ADSL connection, in fact cable download speeds are often twice as fast as ADSL. In that regard cable is the clear winner, but before we let cable do a jig, it must be said that cable internet access is usually shared bandwidth, so depending on where you are, and how many people are connected at the same time, speeds can vary drastically.
In the UK, companies like Virgin Media are aware, and now use increasingly better technology to share their bandwidth amongst their customers, and in fact the UK government has begun legislating that broadband companies advertising speeds must now deliver achievable speeds, rather than the theoretical top speeds.
The other major advantage with Cable apart from pure speed is that deals that include telephone and television packages are also bundled along with internet access, often making them far more compelling than regular ADSL, which simply cannot compete.
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
Broadband Buyers Guide
Buying a broadband service can be quite confusing, internet service providers (ISP) offer a whole range of services from internet access through to digital television, telephone, and sometimes the jargon is can be a little confusing.
This guide is aimed at distilling some of the relevant information :
Broadband Price :
The first thing you need to consider when shopping for a broadband package is of course what your budget is. Broadband packages can range from anywhere as cheap as £8 to as much as £50 a month if you are bundling television and digital TV in your package.
A lot of broadband providers are also providing offers where the first two months subscription are completely free, so it is worth comparing broadband deals and seeing what’s on offer in your area.
Broadband Usage :
The next thing you need to consider is what your usage is likely to be. If all you are doing is posting on Facebook, checking emails and doing some browsing, then really you do not need the fastest internet connection around. In fact an internet connection of just 2 Mbps is more than adequate for that.
If however you know you download tons of media, everything from music to video, and perhaps do some file sharing, then you may want to consider a faster connection.
Broadband Availability :
So you have chosen a package, you now need to know whether the ISP is able to connect to your location. Use our broadband postcode checker, that will let you know who provides services to your area, simply by entering your post code. Really if you live in an urban area, then it is not to much of a concern. If however you live in a more rural or remote area, then it will definitely need to be something you think about.
Broadband Equipment :
Most people have multiple devices that they use to connect to the internet, these days its not uncommon, for people to have a phone, a laptop and a desktop, all of which they would like to connect to the internet from a single access point.If you are looking to do that, then you will need a wireless router. Many ISP’s now bundle these devices with the connection, and it is worth checking into whether the package you are looking at also offers this as an added bonus. If not then it is advisable that you buy one, because they really are simple to set up, and once they are up and running, you can connect all your devices to the internet.
Contract Duration :
Most ISP’s require that you sign up for a minimum 12 month contract, and like with mobile telephones, the longer you sign up for, the cheaper your monthly cost gets. If you want to cancel the contract, the ISP will hit you with a fee, so if you are not sure whether you are going to be at the same address, then it is worth signing up to a contract that is as flexible as you can get.
Some ISPs specialise in providing smaller, more manageable contracts of 3 months which are proving popular with students, people living in rented accommodation and anyone who may not be living at one address for more than a year.
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
Broadband Explained – Types of Service Available in the UK
When it comes to selecting a broadband service it is extremely important that consumers know what type of services are available, and which is best suited for them. This guide is designed to help you tell the difference between types of broadband services available in the UK, and allow you to make an informed choice.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Services
Simply put, a DSL internet service uses telecommunications lines that already exist to deliver internet services to the home or the office. There are two types of DSL broadband services
- Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line ADSL
This type of broadband is very fast, and delivers internet access over the same line you use for your home telephone. It also allows you to use the internet at the same time as making a telephone call, and is very useful for people who do a lot of downloading, but very little uploading. The download speeds obtainable are a lot faster than the obtainable upload speeds. This is what most people think of when they think of internet access or broadband. - Symmetrical Digital Subscriber Line SDSL
SDSL is very similar to ADSL, but rather than using the same telephone line to deliver internet access, a separate telephone line is used. This means that the user can achieve both fast download and upload speeds, and is probably extremely suitable for businesses that need fast two way speeds.
Cable Broadband
These days cable broadband is proving to be very popular, and is the delivery of internet services using the same cable used to deliver television. This means that cable companies like Virgin Media broadband are bundling internet, television channels and even phones as a single package that provides consumers a lot of convenience, as well as a wider choice of television programming.
The ISP provides a modem with two outputs, one for the TV, and the other for the computer, and the only thing you need to do to access the internet is turn your computer on.
The other advantage is it offers pretty good two way speeds.
Wireless / Mobile Broadband
For those who use a laptop or want to be able to browse the internet using their phone, then a wireless broadband plan may the best choice. Simply put if you sign up to a plan with a telephone carrier, then you will be able to access the internet wherever there is mobile phone coverage.
The phone company will provide a mobile modem also know as a dongle, which plugs into your computer or laptop through the USB slot (where you plug in your flash drive). Once you have connected the modem, you can pretty much use the internet wherever there is a signal from your mobile phone company, which these days is pretty much everywhere.
The only disadvantage is that these plans are not designed for heavy downloading, so if you use the internet for checking the news, emailing and social networking, mobile broadband is more than fine, but if you watch a lot of youtube video, download music, then it would be more cost effective to do that from a wired connection.
Broadband Through Satellite
Just as it became possible to receive television or telephone calls through a satellite; the internet is also now being delivered through the use of a satellite dish. This is extremely useful for the more remote or less populated parts of the UK that are not connected to a network.
There are two types of satellite internet services, one which allows the consumer to only download information, in the same way a television set does. If the user wants to upload or send information, then they must again rely on the use of some kind of wired network, like a telephone line.
The other type of satellite internet service allows for two way data transfer however it must be said that satellite internet service is far more expensive, than DSL or cable, it also performs poorly when the weather is bad, and perhaps the worst thing about the service is, it is not reliable for real time data transfer, though of late there has been significant improvement in the technology.
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
Virgin Media Broadband FREE for 3 Months Offer Continues
Our web exclusive FREE broadband for 3 months with Virgin Media has been going so well that they’ve decided to extend the offer for a limited period. That means you can still take advantage of this great deal which gives you :
- FREE 10MB Unlimited broadband for first 3 months (£12.50 a month thereafter) when taken with a phone line at £11 a month
Virgin Media L Broadband comes with everything you need to enjoy super fast internet on your home computer.
- Up to 10Mb
- Unlimited downloads
- FREE PCGuard Total Security
- FREE wireless router and modem
Virgin Media M Phone Package includes
- Unlimited weekend calls to UK landlines
- FREE voicemail
- No need for a BT landline
It’s easy to switch to the award winning Virgin Media broadband and you will be able to benefit from super fast fibre optic speeds, as well as FREE weekend calls to UK landline.
This offer is for a limited period only so sign up today.
>> Click Here to Buy Now with Virgin Media
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting
Romance On Demand With Virgin TV
Virgin Media TV is offering some exclusive ‘love in’ entertainment this Valentine’s Day with their On Demand service. For what many people see as the most romantic day of the year (not by me I hasten to add, as everyday should be like Valentine’s Day!), Virgin Media has scheduled a whole host of romantic TV and movies for those who are planning on a cosy night in.
February, the month of lurrrrrrrvvve, marks the return of classic dramas such as Wuthering Heights alongside and Jane Austen’s Emma. Plus there will be romantically themed episodes of Friends, Gossip Girl and ER available at the touch of a button. Romantic film highlights include Love Actually and Head Over Heels, plus there’s the chance to catch up with season three of Skins which starts this month.
So if you’re planning an evening of decadence with your special Valentine, be sure to choose Virgin Media TV as your accompaniment to the wine and chocolates.
> > Click here to order Virgin Media TV
Please Note - All Prices Quoted Are Correct at Time of Posting