Broadband Availability

Broadband availability has improved in the UK over recent months. But your distance from the exchange influences the service available.

Check broadband availability where you are.

ADSL uses existing copper wires - "phone lines" - from the nearest broadband enabled exchange to the "subscriber's premises" - your home or office. The service requires electronic equipment in the form of ADSL modems at each end, and sends high speed digital signals up and down the copper wires. As it sends more information one way than the other, it is known as "asymmetric".

While we're talking about some of the technical detail of "digital subscriber lines" or broadband, it may interest you that the upstream capabilities are through bi-directional channels, which include the "C Channel" for "POTS" - an impressive sounding acronym for "Plain old telephone service" - or quite simply, phone calls!

This C Channel is split off from the remainder of the ADSL line by means of "filters", which ensures that "POTS" is still available even in the event that ADSL devices fail. We mention this, because you may see mention of filters when ordering broadband. Also, it is possible to carry out some tests on the C Channel to determine broadband availability to establish why a service is not functioning.

Several factors determine the bandwidth of broadband available to you. These include the length of the loop (the distance between you and the exchange), the condition and wire gauge of the line, and the presence of any intervening telecoms equipment. For example, you need to be within about 3 1/2 km of the exchange for a 2Mb/s service, but within 6km for a 1Mb/s service.

We have a simple "availability checker" to see if you can get UK broadband. Just typing in your postcode or phone number is enough to find out.

Check broadband availability where you are.

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