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Broadband Download Speeds

Before purchasing your broadband package, it is important to understand which broadband speed best meets your requirements.

Each broadband package offers a particular speed, which is measured in megabits per second (Mbps).

This is a rate of data transfer equal to how many megabits per second can be transferred from a website or another user's computer to your machine. Remember, the higher the speed or bandwidth, the faster the Internet connection.

Choosing the right speed

If all you need the internet for is to view websites, shop and chat online and send emails, then a speed of 1Mbps or 2Mbps is most likely to suit you. This speed is also appropriate for music and video streaming and basic online gaming.

If you are someone who spends a lot of time playing demanding online games and downloading media files, you will be better going off for a speed of 8Mbps. This speed is also suitable for people who share one internet connection between many computers. Most providers are now offering 8Mbps as their standard broadband speed.

Ultra fast broadband speeds of 24Mbps, or more, are available from some by some providers but often come with a high price. These are aimed specifically at internet users who download lots of large music and video content, play PC games and console games online, work via the internet, make VoIP calls, etc.

It is important to note that no matter which speed you go for, the overall performance of your broadband will depend on a number of factors such as:

  • how close you are to the local telephone exchange,
  • the quality of the copper line,
  • the amount of user traffic in your local area,
  • the type of modem or router you use, and
  • the specifications of your computer.

Most internet service providers will include a list of required system specifications for their products.