Cheat Sheet: Broadband Bandwidth

What is broadband bandwidth?

Broadband bandwidth is the data transfer rate of your internet connection. It's typically measured in megabits per second (Mbps). 

While it’s technically different from broadband speed, the two are so closely connected that they tend to go hand-in-hand when providers talk about their fastest speed.

How does broadband bandwidth differ from broadband speed?

Bandwidth is the amount of data you can upload or download at once using your internet connection. Your broadband speed is the maximum rate that this can happen at. Both are measured in megabits per second (Mbps).

Think of internet bandwidth like a road. The more lanes (Mbps) it has, the faster the cars (the data) are able to get from A to B. Your broadband speed is the speed limit in this scenario. So, even if you have lots of bandwidth, it means nothing with a slow broadband speed, as the data can’t go any faster than that.

This is why certain things can affect the relationship between your internet speed and bandwidth. For example if there are lots of people using your internet connection at once, it can cause network congestion – a bit like a traffic tailback.

The quality of your equipment can also result in slower speeds. It's like driving an old banger. Even if there are plenty of lanes and a high speed limit, you’ll still move slowly if your car can’t go fast.

Future Connected Fibre - working from home broadband cheat sheet

Why is a high bandwidth important?

Because your bandwidth dictates the average speed of your connection, it's important to choose an internet provider with high bandwidth. Having high bandwidth means:

  • Faster downloads: Higher bandwidth means larger files can be downloaded more quickly. For example if you have 1 Mbps of bandwidth and want to download a file that's 10MB, it would take ten seconds to download. If you have 10 Mbps of bandwidth, that same file would only take one second.
  • Smoother streaming: Video and audio content will buffer less with a faster connection.
  • Improved online gaming: Faster speeds reduce lag and improve gameplay.
  • Enhanced video conferencing: High-quality audio and video calls need plenty of bandwidth to run smoothly.

How to measure bandwidth

  • Use an online speed test: You can use websites like Speedtest.net or Fast.com to measure your download and upload speeds. This should give you a good idea of your bandwidth.

What can affect bandwidth?

  • Current broadband plan: Your internet service provider (ISP) will offer various plans with different bandwidth speeds.
  • Physical distance from the network node: The closer you are to your modem or router, the faster your connection is likely to be. This is why wired connections are often a lot faster than Wifi speeds.
  • Network congestion: If there's lots of online activity on your network at once, it can slow down your connection.
  • Your device's capabilities: Your router, modem, and computer hardware can also impact your overall WiFi speed.

What is a good broadband speed?

This answer is different for everyone, and depends on what you use your internet connection for.  These are the figures to look for when you run your broadband speed tests, to see if the actual speed is fit for your needs:

  • Basic tasks (browsing, email): 10-25 Mbps
  • Streaming (HD video): 25-50 Mbps
  • Online gaming and video conferencing: 50-100 Mbps
  • Heavy downloads and 4K streaming: 100 Mbps or higher

How to improve your broadband bandwidth

  • Upgrade your broadband service: Switch to a plan with a higher data transfer rate. Look for fibre broadband deals, and see what different broadband providers offer.
  • Check your network equipment: Make sure your router and modem are up-to-date and functioning properly.
  • Reduce digital activity: Limit the number of devices connected to your network, and avoid using bandwidth-intensive applications like 4K streaming and online gaming during peak hours.
  • Contact your ISP: If you're experiencing slow speeds, reach out to your ISP for troubleshooting help or to discuss potential upgrades.

Get the right bandwidth for your needs

Future Connected Fibre offers a variety of broadband speed and bandwidth options to suit your specific needs. Whether you're a casual user or a heavy downloader, we have a plan that's right for you. Our high-quality fibre optic network delivers fast, reliable speeds, so you can enjoy a seamless online experience.