Unlimited Broadband Packages

Unlimited broadband refers to a broadband service that works on a fixed monthly fee, with no additional usage for the actual time spent on the internet, or for the amount of data uploaded and downloaded each month. Previously, when most people connected to the internet via a dial up phone line, the key constraint on internet usage was time, as data was transferred at more or less a standard, very slow, speed.

As broadband has become more popular, more and more data intensive usage habits have developed for users, and it is the amount of downloaded data, measured in megabytes, that has an effect on the network infrastructure. Therefore, most standard packages will offer unlimited time on the internet, but will limit usage to a set monthly download usage, usually with a premium charge for any usage above this. As an alternative, 'unlimited' packages are available, which, in theory, allow users to perform all of their needs, without needing to worry about the amount of data transfer.

In reality, it is usually difficult for providers to offer truly 'unlimited' service, as this would leave services open to abuse from those using their ordinary internet connection to host a server or other high data transfer infrastructure. The main impact on this has been on those using the connection for peer-to-peer file sharing for transferring media files, doing so repeatedly throughout the day. Unlimited broadband packages almost all come with a 'fair usage policy' within the terms and conditions.

This simply means that access may be limited at peak times for those who consistently use high volumes of data transfer - it will not affect users doing so frequently but not continually (e.g. downloading a film every night, as opposed to having the internet running constantly, transferring hundreds of film and music files).

Doing this ensures that capacity is available for the majority of users at peak time, and is seen as a fair way of apportioning the limitations of the network infrastructure when there is demand from a high number of users. Some providers do offer 'true' unlimited packages (e.g. Sky), although the fair usage policies of other providers should not affect the vast majority of users.

Unlimited broadband is offered by most of the major suppliers, for the lowest and highest download speeds available. For example, O2 offer the service on their 8 mbps packages and their 20Mbps packages (which includes their LLU packages, which offer the maximum speeds available because the provider has their own equipment at the network exchange), while Virgin Media offers unlimited downloads on its 10Mbps service as well as its 50Mpbs service, which is currently quoted as the highest consumer download speed in the UK.

Most providers do still offer a choice of an unlimited broadband arrangement along with a monthly cap. This is a good option for light users, as it can result in a lower monthly charge. For example, the Post Office's standard broadband package includes a 5GB standard download limit, however, it is possible to upgrade to an unlimited download package for around 1/3 extra per month, and similar arrangements are available from other suppliers such as Sky, Plus Net, Orange and BT, allowing each customer to choose the most suitable arrangement.