Broadband charges

Interested in switching provider or setting up a new broadband connection? Many people are put off switching ISPs as they are worrried about the associated costs they may incur, despite the fact that many UK homes and businesses are paying too much for their broadband packages.

This simple guide should help you understand the charges you are likely to incur in addition to the monthly charges quoted on this site. These charges vary widely between providers, so it is always worth taking a close look at the terms and conditions of the package before signing up.

Types of broadband

Click on the links below to compare the UK's bestselling packages:

• ADSL Broadband
• Cable Broadband
• Mobile Broadband

ADSL Broadband charges:

• Landline charges - it is important to note that there must be an active telephone connection at the home or business looking to get broadband, as all ADSL broadband packages are accessed via a home telephone line. If there is no active landline at the residence or business, you will be liable to pay a set-up charge of £122.50 and monthly line rental thereafter.

• Wireless routers - you must have a wireless router in order to set up a wireless connection in your home or office. Most ISPs now offer free wireless routers with their broadband packages. However, if bought separately, you can expect to pay up to £60.

• Compare ADSL broadband here.

Cable Broadband charges:

• No landline charges! as cable broadband is transmitted over fibre optic cables and not traditional copper phone wires, there is no explicit need for an active phone line at the premises in which cable broadband is to be installed.

• Installation charges - charges to install cable broadband start at £30 from Virgin Media.

• Compare cable broadband deals here.

Mobile Broadband charges:

Mobile USB dongles - ISPs may impose a one-off charge for mobile broadband modems/dongles on low-spend and pay as you go options. However, the devices are usually free when you sign up for a monthly contract.

The key charges associated with mobile broadband are overseas charges and excess usage charges, these are detailed below.

Overseas charges

Charges to use mobile broadband overseas depend on your ISP. However, an EU ruling over charges has made surfing while travelling on the continent cheaper and more accessible than ever.

Compare mobile broadband deals here.

Broadband charges common to all types:

• Connection charges - some internet service providers charge a one-off fee to activate your broadband connection. This varies from to ISP to ISP.

• Excess usage charges - if you exceed the monthly download limits of your package, you may be charged excess fees for each extra Gigabyte you use. In order to avoid excess charges, many heavy use customers choose unlimited download broadband packages.

• Cancellation charges - if you wish to terminate your connection before the end of your contract, you may be liable to pay cancellation fees. These vary depending on which ISP you are contracted to and at what point in your contract you cancel.

• Compare all broadband packages here.