Wireless broadband deals in the UK in (November 2024)
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Learn moreLooking for the latest wireless broadband deals in the UK? Nowadays, home wireless routers are standard with most broadband plans, ensuring easy access to wireless internet.
The good news is that many attractively priced wireless broadband deals in the UK offer a range of packages and speeds to meet everyone's needs.
Let's take a closer look.
Best wireless broadband deals:
How does a wireless router work?
A wireless router, also known as a Wi-Fi hub, is a device – often supplied by your internet service provider – that enables multiple Wi-Fi-compatible devices to connect to the internet cable-free. It broadcasts a wireless network that devices can connect to in order to access your home broadband internet connection.
These devices typically have built-in receivers that communicate with the router, allowing them to access the internet wirelessly. Wireless routers use specific international Wi-Fi standards such as 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax. These Wi-Fi standards are critical in determining the network's speed, quality, reliability, compatibility between devices, and how many devices can connect simultaneously.
The most advanced routers, namely, 802.11ac and 802.11ax – also known as Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6, respectively – offer faster speeds and support more devices by transmitting on higher frequencies. Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), for example, works solely on the 5GHz band, enabling faster speeds and greater bandwidth compared to 2.4GHz, but with a shorter range.
On the other hand, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) offers improved efficiency on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. The dual-band capability makes Wi-Fi 6 ideal for public venues that need to serve many devices simultaneously over a long range.
What are the pros and cons of wireless broadband routers?
Using a wireless router offers various conveniences but also has some downsides. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of a wireless broadband router.
Advantages of a wireless broadband router
- Flexibility. A wireless broadband router lets you choose your Internet service provider, allowing you to find the best deals. As such, you can switch providers at any time.
- Mobility. With a wireless router, your devices can access the network anywhere within range rather than being chained to a wired connection. This wireless freedom allows you to stay connected as you move around.
- Widespread connectivity. Multiple wireless devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers can simultaneously connect to the Internet and communicate through a single router. This streamlines network usage.
- Ease of upgrades. Service providers often upgrade your broadband wireless router model for free, ensuring you always use up-to-date technology.
- Control. A personally owned wireless router gives you full control to customise settings, features, and connected hardware.
Disadvantages of a wireless broadband router
- Interference. Wireless connections may weaken due to obstruction from walls or electronic device disturbance. As such, large spaces may require Wi-Fi extenders.
- Security risks. An unsecured Wi-Fi network is vulnerable to unauthorised access, which could expose passwords and credit card info. It is important not to cut corners on security.
What types of wireless broadband deals are available?
There are several main types of Wi-Fi deals available from internet providers. The options differ primarily based on connection speeds and network reliability.
Other critical factors in determining the best broadband deal include the household size, number of concurrent users, online activities, budget, and contract flexibility. Here are the four key options you should be aware of.
- Standard Wi-Fi. Also referred to as copper ADSL, this broadband type offers slower average speeds of around 10Mbps using conventional phone lines. It's the most affordable but also slower in performance.
- Fibre broadband. This type of wireless broadband deal is the most common in the UK and delivers faster 30Mbps+ speeds by combining fibre cables with phone line networks. It's much quicker and more reliable than ADSL, but it also costs more. It's a solid choice for a household of more than three users.
- Full fibre broadband. This technology connects homes directly via high-speed fibre optic cables for the fastest speeds of up to 1Gbps and even 2Gbps in some areas. It offers the highest performance, but fibre availability is still limited in many regions across the UK. It’s ideal for large households with multiple heavy users.
- Cable broadband. Cable broadband uses a combination of coaxial and fibre optic cabling to deliver lightning-fast download speeds of up to 1Gbps. It's accessible to over half of households nationwide, primarily through Virgin Media.
Wireless vs. wired: which is better?
When choosing between wireless and wired internet, there are trade-offs to consider. Wireless offers the convenience and flexibility of connecting devices without cable management, enabling flexible internet access anywhere in your home or office.
However, wired connections provide faster speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability – critical for gaming and 4K video streaming. Wireless connections risk signal interference and often have limited security.
The optimal solution may be a high-speed wired router that transmits a fast, modern wireless network. This solution can offer wired ports for bandwidth-hungry gaming rigs and smart TVs while allowing phones and tablets to access wi-fi conveniently.
How do I set up my wireless router?
Most standard broadband packages come with a plug-and-play router requiring minimal setup. Simply connect the provided router to your home’s phone socket for internet access and a nearby power outlet.
The router will automatically broadcast a fast home Wi-Fi network with no further configuration needed in most cases. Some fibre or cable connections may require that a technician install them for an additional fee, so check with your specific internet provider to see if home service is needed.
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FAQ
Is wireless broadband the same as Wi-Fi?
No, although the terms are sometimes incorrectly used interchangeably, wireless broadband and Wi-Fi refer to two distinct connections. Broadband – in general – is the internet service transmitted to your home. Wi-Fi refers to the wireless router technology enabling devices to access the broadband locally, as in from within your home or office.
Can I get wireless fibre broadband?
Yes, nearly all fibre broadband plans include Wi-Fi equipment to give you wireless device access within your home, which means that you will have an indoor wireless signal that connects to your outdoor fibre broadband internet connection.
Are wireless routers included in broadband deals?
Yes, modern broadband deals typically include an entry-level or mid-range wireless router for Wi-Fi access without additional fees. While these standard routers will be sufficient for most casual users, upgrading to a high-end router can further boost your home's security, range and connected device capacity if needed.