The high speed internet access is very much in demand as the number of internet users are increasing by leaps and bounds in the UK. The upgraded technology has made the availability of broadband more easier and cheaper.  By opening up the sector, the Government policy is to encourage healthy competition between broadband service providers. The result is the availability of a more compatible technology at affordable price to the customers.

The earlier introduction of dial up system was a cheaper one. But there were two disadvantages namely slow speed and inability to use the telephone while the computer user is online. The customers found it a time consuming process to connect the internet during peak hours. Swelling telephone bills was another handicap.

Broadband, which splits a telephone line to provide with both voice and data through modem and filters, was found more user-friendly. Even though the new innovation was expensive in the initial stages, the customers found that it was more economical in the long run and also was more efficient than the dial up system.  Fixed monthly subscriptions were affordable.

There are two methods of availing broadband. The first one is the ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) and the second is the cable broadband. The computer is connected to the internet through a high speed cable modem and filters using a cable net work. Other systems of broadband available includes Satellite, mobile, radio, digital TV and fibre technology. But they are not widely available and even where they are available, customers found them very expensive. Wireless technology is developing in this sector.

As for broadband, the introduction of Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) enabled the local networks to avail the facility. The operators can upgrade their lines using DSL technology and provide the customers with high speed internet access. The customers will have the freedom to enter into a contract with the service provider and pay both telephone and the broadband charges together to them.

The broadband is now marketed by various companies and they are operating in a highly competitive environment as mentioned earlier. The companies are offering fast and affordable services to the customers in the form of packages, which make the service cheaper than ever. Broadband and telephone packages have become very popular in the UK.

In pursuit of the public policy of the Government, the broadband is now developed and promoted with vigour aiming to extend its availability to one and all through out the country.