Contracts<\/strong><\/td>Typically 12-24 months with various options.<\/td> | Usually 12-24 month contracts.<\/td> | Offers 18-month contracts mainly.<\/td> | Offers flexible contract lengths.<\/td> | Generally offers 12-18 month contract terms.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n People tend to chat about how dependable the connection is – whether customer service gets back to you quickly, how smoothly the setup goes, and if the speeds you get are the same as the ones they promise in their ads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These comments can point out common problems, such as frequent outages, a tough time fixing tech issues, or the hassle of switching from one company to another. Of course, you might also stumble upon some praise, like shout-outs to providers who nail it with their customer support or deliver a service that’s as good as or better than what they claimed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, some reviews dig into whether a provider’s services match specific needs, like gaming, streaming, or working from home. This info can be super useful, especially if your internet is your lifeline for your job or your downtime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Comparing Broadband Plans<\/h2>\n\n\n\nNavigating the UK’s broadband maze was a must-do on our family’s settling-in checklist. With the kids’ online classes and our endless streaming habits, finding the right deal was no small feat. I’ve learned a thing or two about comparing plans that could save you time and money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Speed and Data Allowances<\/h3>\n\n\n\nFirst off, let’s talk speed. <\/strong>We’re not racing cars here, but when you’ve got multiple devices connected and everyone’s trying to do their thing, a snail-paced connection just won’t cut it. You’ll want to aim for a plan that offers enough oomph to keep those videos streaming smoothly and the kids’ online games lag-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut it’s not all about speed \u2013 think about data, too. Unlimited data plans are the dream, especially with kids in the house. You never know when they’ll stream every season of their new favourite show in one go. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you’re the type to keep a tight ship and your usage is more ’email checking’ than ‘binge-watching,’ a capped plan could be kinder to your wallet. Just remember, it’s like buying clothes for the kids \u2013 they’ll grow into more data usage before you know it LOL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Contract Length and Flexibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\nNow, onto the commitment part \u2013 contracts. Signing up for a year or two can snag you a sweet deal, but life’s full of surprises, especially with a young family. Maybe there’s a new job on the horizon, or you find a new place with a better play park. Look out for providers that offer rolling monthly contracts \u2013 they might be a tad pricier per month, but they give you the freedom to switch things up without fuss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additional Costs and Hidden Fees<\/h3>\n\n\n\nRight, let’s talk about the not-so-fun part: the extras. You know, the setup fees, the cost of renting a router, those sneaky little charges that can make your bill look more like a novel than a summary. Here’s a handy checklist to keep by your side:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Does the plan include an installation fee? <\/strong>Sometimes, it’s worth it for a smooth start, but it can be a sting if you weren’t expecting it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- What’s the deal with the router?<\/strong> Some plans offer a free router, while others might charge you or require a rental fee.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Check the fine print for call charges. <\/strong>If you still use your landline, make sure you won’t be floored by the cost of a chat with your neighbour.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- And lastly, those early exit penalties.<\/strong> They can be hefty, so it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for if you need an out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Family-Friendly Features and Benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\nCertain providers offer features that are a boon for families. Parental controls to manage what little eyes can see online, security packages to protect against digital threats, and dedicated customer support can make life easier. It’s not just about getting the quickest speeds or the best deal anymore \u2013 it’s about finding a plan that’s tailored for families and can contribute to a safe and happy home life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When juggling the chaos of unpacking boxes and chasing after the little ones, you don’t want to worry about what they might stumble across online. That’s where the family-friendly features of certain broadband plans come into play. Parental controls allow you to filter content, set browsing times, and even block specific sites you don’t want your kids to access. It’s like having a digital nanny keeping an eye on things, and for peace of mind, that’s invaluable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then there’s the security aspect. Our lives are so interconnected with the digital world now, and the thought of someone hacking into your personal space is unsettling. Many Internet providers understand this and often bundle security packages with their family broadband plans. These can include antivirus software, firewalls, and other online protection tools to protect your family’s digital life from threats like viruses or phishing scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dedicated customer support is something you don’t truly appreciate until you need it. When your connection goes on the fritz, and you’ve got a deadline, or your kids have online homework due, you’ll be thankful for a customer service team that prioritises your call and helps you get back online ASAP. Just gotta say that the support in Virgin media is completely useless. I had a back-and-forth conversation with the reps- and it’s dealing with robots reading from scripts…. <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nLet’s not forget about the entertainment factor. With a good broadband plan, you often get access to a range of family-friendly TV and movie options. Some providers offer packages with educational content and channels for kids, which can be a real lifesaver when you’re trying to keep them occupied and stimulate their growing minds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With more devices than ever \u2013 tablets, phones, gaming consoles \u2013 a broadband plan offering a strong and reliable connection is crucial. You don’t want to be in the middle of a video call with family back home and have the connection drop. It’s all about those uninterrupted moments that keep us connected to our loved ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Installation and Setup Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\nSetting up a new broadband connection can be a daunting task, especially for families with multiple devices and varying technological expertise. Here are a few tips to help ensure a smooth and successful installation process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Do-It-Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSome broadband providers will send you a start-up kit for self-installation, which can be a straightforward and quicker option. That is especially true if you\u2019re comfortable with a basic technology setup. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you\u2019re not confident in your ability to install the equipment yourself or have a complex home network setup, you may want to consider professional installation. Professional installation can ensure that your equipment is set up correctly and that you get the most out of your broadband connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Making Sure Your Wi-Fi Reaches Everywhere<\/h3>\n\n\n\nIt’s super annoying when your Wi-Fi doesn’t reach every corner of your home. Try these tricks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Put your router in a central spot without things blocking it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- Keep its software up to date for the best performance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n- If your house is big, think about getting Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh network.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How Families Can Save Money On Broadband Packages<\/h2>\n\n\n\nAlways look for deals, and don’t hesitate to negotiate. Providers often cut prices for new customers, and bargaining is more normal than you’d think. Watch for packages that include phone and TV services, which can save you a lot of money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\nChoosing the right broadband for your family is no easy feat, but armed with the right information, you can make a decision that ensures a smooth transition to your new life in the UK. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember, the best broadband for your family is one that matches your specific needs, offers reliable service, and comes at a price that fits your budget. Here’s to new beginnings and seamless streaming!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As a mother who recently embarked on the exciting yet daunting adventure of moving to the UK with my family, I cannot overstate the importance of staying connected at all times. Reliable broadband is the lifeline to the world we left behind and the new one we joined. It’s how we keep in touch with […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":283,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":1,"label":"tips"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK-1024x576.jpg",800,450,true],"author_info":{"display_name":"Lii","author_link":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/author\/liraz\/"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":1,"name":"tips","slug":"tips","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":1,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":0,"count":73,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":1,"category_count":73,"category_description":"","cat_name":"tips","category_nicename":"tips","category_parent":0}],"tag_info":false,"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK.jpg",1120,630,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK-300x169.jpg",300,169,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK-768x432.jpg",768,432,true],"large":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK-1024x576.jpg",800,450,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK.jpg",1120,630,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Broadband-in-the-UK.jpg",1120,630,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Lii","author_link":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/author\/liraz\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"As a mother who recently embarked on the exciting yet daunting adventure of moving to the UK with my family, I cannot overstate the importance of staying connected at all times. Reliable broadband is the lifeline to the world we left behind and the new one we joined. It’s how we keep in touch with…","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/280"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=280"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/280\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":923,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/280\/revisions\/923"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/283"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=280"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=280"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.relocationmum.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=280"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}} |