General student Q&As

Here’s some of the top questions we get asked by our student customers

What broadband providers are available in my area?

The availability of broadband providers varies depending on your location. We work with national providers who have massive coverage and years of experience in supplying broadband

What types of broadband connections are available, and which is best for me?

There are different types of broadband, including fibre optic, ADSL, and cable (covered in detail within our student broadband guide). The best option for you depends on factors such as speed, reliability, and availability in your area. Fiber optic tends to offer faster speeds and is more reliable, but it may not be available everywhere.

What broadband speed do I need for my usage?

The broadband speed you need depends on factors such as the number of users in your household and the types of online activities you engage in. For example, streaming HD videos or online gaming may require faster speeds than basic web browsing.

Are there any student discounts or special offers available?

Yes, many broadband providers offer discounts or special deals specifically for students. We negotiate on your behalf and are confident we have the most competitive offers in the market.

What is the contract length, and are there any hidden fees?

Broadband contract lengths can vary, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. It’s essential to review the terms and conditions carefully to understand any potential hidden fees, such as setup fees or early termination charges.  We only offer flexible or 12 month contracts as any longer could cause you an issue when leaving your property.

Can I upgrade or downgrade my broadband package if needed?

Most providers offer the flexibility to upgrade or downgrade your broadband package, although there may be restrictions or charges associated with doing so. It’s best to check with your provider for specific details.

Is the broadband provider reliable, and what is their customer service like?

Reliability and customer service are crucial factors to consider when choosing a broadband provider. Reading reviews and checking customer satisfaction ratings can give you insight into a provider’s reliability and customer service quality.

Do I need a landline for broadband, and is it included in the package?

Some broadband packages require a landline connection, while others may offer broadband-only options. It’s essential to check whether a landline is required for the package you’re interested in and if it’s included in the price.

What equipment is provided, and is there a setup/installation process?

Most broadband providers supply the necessary equipment, such as a router or modem, as part of the package. There may be a setup or installation process involved, depending on your provider and the type of connection.

Are there any data caps or fair usage policies?

Some broadband packages may have data caps or fair usage policies, which could limit your internet usage or result in additional charges if exceeded. It’s essential to check the terms of your package to understand any restrictions or limitations.

What about 4G or 5G Home Broadband?

These are offered by mobile providers using a data package like your mobile phone.  They aren’t really mobile though, as it still uses a router like the main broadband providers.  The performance can be comparable to fibre broadband, but much like your mobile phone, it depends on the network coverage in your area.  The only other downside is that most contract lengths are for 18 or 24 months.

I have had broadband installed but I’m not getting the coverage I need?

Some electrical devices can cause electrical interference to your router. Halogen lamps, electrical dimmer switches, stereo or computer speakers, fairy lights, TVs and monitors and AC power cords have all been known to affect routers. Keep your router as far away as possible from other electrical devices as well as those which emit wireless signals such as cordless phones, baby monitors etc. Try to place your router on a table or shelf rather than on the floor and keep it switched on.

Talk to your internet provider. If you have a problem with your connection, we suggest contacting your provider in the first instance. They should be able to help you work out what the cause is and how you might be able to fix it.