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In 2022, we tend to think that reliable web availability is virtually universal. If you move into a place, wherever, there must surely be access to broadband internet.
Well, in fact it’s true that some properties across the UK still have no fixed-line connectivity whatsoever. Similarly, around 500,000 who might already enjoy ADSL access can’t migrate to entry-level fibre solutions of 30Mbps or more.
Why? Because small, remote locations traditionally don’t have the infrastructure. They also tend to be less populated, reducing the incentive for network providers to lay those cables.
Building Digital UK (BDUK) is the national initiative to drive broadband coverage across the country.
The government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) is investing a total of £6bn to try and “level up” rural areas.
This is includes £5bn to bring higher speed “Gigabit” access to hard-to-reach locations and further £1bn for better mobile coverage.
Additionally, those with an eligible rural postcode can apply to the Gigabit Voucher Scheme. Properties and businesses can receive £1,500 or £3,500 grants to help local service providers plumb addresses in.
Yes, very often there might be an independent provider offer niche services locally.
Rural locations known to be hard to reach by the popular networks do tend to have specialist ISPs serving the communities. This can include small wireless ISPs and local full-fibre schemes worth exploring.
It’s recommended that you check with local councils or search online to find the necessary contacts.
Thankfully, getting great broadband isn’t confined to fixed-line connections. There are other ways to consider so let’s outline the most likely solutions for rural customers:
Mobile broadband (4G & 5G)
Wireless broadband
Satellite broadband
Based on the cellular data networks, mobile broadband is how you access the internet on your mobile phone. Tiered in terms of speed, 5G is potentially 100 times faster than 4G but doesn’t yet have the same level of UK coverage.
Average real world 4G/5G speeds:
4G = 18-36Mbps
5G = 100Mbps-1Gbps+
Mobile broadband is available for home use via a WiFi router just like fixed-line broadband. Leading providers include EE, Vodafone, and Three are popular choices but it’s always worth shopping around.
Most importantly, always check the provider website for signal coverage. You can also use Signalchecker.co.uk to check a postcode or place name for network availability.
Affordability, with contracts starting at £20/month for unlimited data plans.
Good workable speeds, especially on 5G.
Some contracts are subject to data usage limits.
4G performance might be restrictive for larger households.
Wholly reliant on network signal strength.
Fixed wireless access (FWA) is an alternative to mobile data networks, by transmitting a data signal via radio frequencies instead.
Wireless ISPs (WISP) such as ITSwisp tend to be small-scale operations, targeting very specific areas devoid of alternative services. So we’re talking fairly niche availability overall.
Most importantly, service speeds can be relatively fast and with lower latency than satellite solutions. Prices will vary depending on providers and setup fees but are generally regarded as not prohibitively costly.
Prices are variable but can be fairly affordable.
Speeds equivalent to entry-level fibre (30-50Mbps+) and beyond.
Providers are very limited, with less market choice.
Coverage areas tend to be restricted.
Satellite broadband relays a wireless broadband signal via satellite. This means your internet is effectively transmitted to and from your location using specialist hardware.
Like satellite television, your property will require dish installation to receive the service. This implied extra cost and traditional restrictions on performance often make it a last resort option.
Starlink from SpaceX has however gained prominence for promising a very futuristic satellite solution. Its service boasts higher speeds with lower latency times but certainly comes at a premium price.
Customers can expect to pay at least £89 per month with a single hardware purchase of £529.
Other more local service providers like Freedomsat offer home packages from £25 per month at 10, 30 or 75Gbps speeds.
Pretty competitive speeds, especially with Starlink.
Coverage is pretty much universal.
High setup and monthly tariffs.
Latency (lag) times are typically higher.
Performance is affected by weather
Packages tend to have data download limits.
To summarise, if fixed-line broadband isn’t an option for your location then all is not lost. There are genuine alternatives that can rival fibre for speed and reliability.
Often the biggest trade-off here is price. Those on tighter budgets will likely feel the pinch, especially where mobile coverage is also unavailable.
Consult with the community and local councils, while staying prepared to look outside of the mainstream services for suitable solutions.
Live well with Moving and Improving