Most broadband providers will advertise in their commercials and flyers that they now are able to offer unlimited broadband packages which appeal to people who spend a large amount of their time online. However, what they do not advertise so widely is found in the small print, the fair broadband usage allowance. Before you rush to sign up for an unlimited cheap broadband package you may want to check out what the fair broadband usage policy is for the provider you are thinking about signing a contract with as well as the penalties because they can add up quick.
For those who are not familiar with the fair broadband usage in the UK it is a policy that dictates that you can have unlimited access to broadband but have to use an acceptable amount of bandwidth so that you do not deprive your neighbors of their connection speed. The restrictions exist so that everyone on the same exchange gets equal ‘fair’ access to bandwidth and high download speeds. Thus, while you may be signing up for an unlimited plan you are actually not in reality able to get unlimited access to the internet.
Each provider has their own rules when it comes to those who violate the fair broadband usage standards in the UK as well as what constitutes their fair broadband usage policy. It is important to explore how much bandwidth you are allowed to access especially if you plan on using a lot of peer to peer file sharing programs since they use a large amount of bandwidth and are the most likely way that you will go over the accepted limits. It is much better to stay on top of the game before going over because the penalties can be harsh.
As mentioned, different providers deal with fair broadband usage allowances in different manners. Some of the providers may punish you for going over the limit a certain amount of times by asking you to leave their service although this is usually the last step they will take. Other ways that they prevent the situation from occurring again is by lowering the amount of speed that your bandwidth is capable of during peak times. They also may choose to restrict the time that you are able to access broadband by not allowing you on during the peak times of the day which can be a problem if your online access is work related.
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