What Do Broadband Speeds Actually Mean?

We live in an age where we are always looking to get online and check how many 'likes' we have received for a post or maybe checking out the latest technology trend. Our lives are full and fast paced which means it is essential our broadband speed is a fast as we are. When you come to decide on your broadband provider do you really know what some of the key terms mean?

Here we take a look what broadband speeds actually mean and other factors which can affect the overall speed.

Download Speed

This is the rate of information received over your broadband line. For example, the time it takes to download software from the internet onto your computer is determined by the download speed available.

Upload Speed

Upload speed is the rate that information is sent over your broadband line. For example, the time it takes to send high resolution images from your computer to another is determined by the upload speed available.

Broadband Speed

This is measured in Mbps - Megabits per Second. These speeds can be determined by a number of factors. Resound always aim to get you the best broadband speeds possible.

Check your broadband speed to find out what's available in your area. Perform a speed checker using our partners Daisy tool here.

What Factors Can Affect Broadband Speeds?

From time to time you may experience slow broadband speeds. This can be caused by a number of internal and external factors.

• The length of the line from the exchange or from the PCP (green cabinets) can cause some speeds to be slower than others.
• Not being connected directly to the master socket in the premises.
• Correct filters needing to be used on all sockets relating to the broadband line.
• A fault on the broadband line.
• A faulty router is being used.
• Connecting via WiFi rather than Ethernet
• Number of people connecting internally, sharing the bandwidth.
• One off, high usage events - e.g. computer / phone updates.
• Electrical interference from other devices in proximity to the connection.
• Peak time congestion e.g. you may experience slower speeds during the evening when more people are connecting.
• The processing speed of your device, router or modem.
• The quality of the wiring inside your premises
• Weather conditions.

If you have any questions on broadband, please contact our support team on 0333 121 2000 or email mail@resound.co.uk.