Do you need a phone line for broadband in 2024
Our skilled writers & in-house research team are behind the biggest cybersecurity stories, like The Mother Of All Breaches & WhatsApp Data Leak.
We closely analyze the services, check their features & openly share our testing methods with everyone.
Learn more
Typically, broadband requires a phone line with an additional cost for a landline. Most internet providers in the UK use copper cables connected to your landline for internet delivery.
However, a phone line is unnecessary with some newer fast full fibre connections from specific providers, like Vodafone or Virgin Media. These connections use independent cables, such as fibre-optic or coaxial, that are entirely separate from the phone line network.
As more people use their mobile phones for calls at home, the demand for landline-free broadband packages is rising. Opting for broadband without landline is a budget-friendly approach to securing home internet without extra costs for landline, mobile, or TV services. Do you need a landline for broadband? Continue reading to discover the pros and cons of having one for your personal needs.
Do I need a landline for broadband?
No, you don’t need a landline for broadband. Four types of internet connections don’t use phone cables to send data: fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), cable broadband, satellite, and mobile broadband.
Many internet providers still need a landline because they use the same network for both broadband and phone. This applies mainly to traditional Asymmetric digital subscriber line ADSL and fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) connections. These types, using Openreach’s network, are widespread across the UK.
However, the old copper phone network might be outdated soon. BT’s Openreach network aims to switch all UK homes to internet-based connections by 2026. They’re introducing Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband to 25 million homes and businesses.
Is there any reason to keep a landline?
If you’re wondering, whether you need a landline for broadband, there are actually several good reasons to keep it. Landline provides reliability and enhanced security, especially during emergencies. Before ditching your landline, think about some situations where its special features could be really helpful:
- Emergency use. Landlines are crucial during emergencies. They’re less likely to be affected by power outages, and emergency services can easily trace the location of a landline phone.
- Making and receiving calls. A landline can be comfortable for prolonged conversations, and it often provides clearer audio quality compared to some mobile calls. For those who prefer not to use their mobile phones for calls, holding onto your landline makes sense.
- Broadband-only is not always cheaper. While broadband-only options exist, bundling services (like internet and landline together) can sometimes result in cost savings.
The use of landlines has decreased with the rise of mobile phones, but both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Providers that offer broadband without landline
Nearly every provider now provides broadband-only options, which can include a working landline without inclusive calls or, alternatively, true broadband-only deals without a functioning landline.
- Vodafone offers full fibre broadband that delivers speeds of up to 910Mbps for all your needs: video calling, streaming, gaming, and more.
- Virgin Media has its own cable network separate from Openreach. Their Gigabit fiber broadband boasts an impressive average download speed of 1130Mbps.
- Plusnet provides full fibre broadband with unlimited usage with speeds up to 900Mbps, which are perfect for streaming, downloading, and gaming on multiple devices.
Other major providers like Shell Energy, Sky, EE, and BT provide full fibre options without the necessity of a landline.
What are the types of broadband without landline?
Broadband without landline uses alternative technologies such as fiber optics, cable, or wireless connections to deliver internet access directly to a user’s home. This setup eliminates the need for a phone line and allows users to access the internet through various technologies, providing more flexibility and different pricing structures. If you’ve made up your mind that you need a broadband without landline, see what options are available.
Full fibre broadband
Does fibre broadband need a phone line? While FTTC still does, full fibre broadband, often called FTTP, is a specialized service that skips the old copper lines. Instead, it uses fiber-optic cables directly to your home without the need for a landline. Although it’s typically the pricier broadband option, it provides the highest internet speeds, up to 1Gbps and more. It’s worth mentioning that full fibre is still limited in the UK.
Cable broadband
Cable broadband brings the internet to your home using a combination of fiber and coaxial cables, not the copper wires used for your phone line. The coaxial cable in the network is great for transmitting data quickly and maintaining speed over longer distances compared to copper. Both options – full fibre and coaxial – are very fast and work well for households with multiple users streaming TV, browsing, and gaming simultaneously.
Satellite broadband
Satellite broadband is accessible everywhere, and you don’t need a landline for broadband. It operates wirelessly through a satellite dish, much like those used for satellite TV, allowing the transmission of information. Remember, if your home can get fiber optic broadband, satellite might not be the most cost-effective option. While some satellite plans may seem comparable in cost to fiber optic or DSL, they often have download limits not present in other plans.
Mobile broadband
This is a good choice if you reside in an area with a strong mobile phone signal. You can connect through a USB dongle, a data-only SIM, o a Wi-Fi hotspot. Mobile broadband offers flexibility for internet access without needing a landline, but for extended use, a fixed connection is more reliable.
Are broadband without landline deals good?
Broadband without landline deals are good, especially for people who pay for line rental deals but rarely use it. It provides fast speeds, offering flexibility for streaming, gaming, and downloading. Opting for broadband without a landline can also be cost-effective, saving you money by eliminating the need for phone service you may not use.
With no requirement for a landline, these broadband deals align with modern communication preferences, providing a streamlined and efficient service.
Bottom line
The necessity of a landline for broadband depends on individual preferences and requirements. As technology evolves and communication habits shift, many users find broadband-only options appealing for their cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and modern connectivity.
For those opting for broadband-only, Vodafone emerges as a noteworthy recommendation. With a reputation for providing reliable and high-speed internet services, Vodafone offers a compelling choice for users seeking a seamless broadband experience without the need for a landline.
FAQs
How does Fibre broadband without landline work?
Fibre broadband without landline works using high-tech fibre-optic cables instead of copper phone lines. These cables are super speedy because they can carry way more internet data than the old copper ones. With this setup, you can have fast internet at home without paying extra for a phone line.
Does broadband use phone lines?
Not every type of broadband uses phone lines. Most internet providers require a landline because they share the same network for both broadband and phone services. However, there are four types of internet connections that don’t rely on phone cables: full fibre, cable broadband, satellite, and mobile broadband.
Can we use broadband without a router?
Yes, you don’t always have to purchase a router to use the internet. You can link your computer directly to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Additionally, some modems come with a built-in router, giving you the choice to set up a Wi-Fi network without needing to buy additional equipment.
