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The Crucial Role Of Internet In Gaming

The Crucial role of Internet in Gaming

Slow internet speeds and lag can be the ultimate buzzkill during a gaming session.

For gamers who rely on internet-connected devices like consoles, tablets, and smartphones, a stable and high-speed internet connection is just as crucial as their gaming prowess, especially when engaging in online multiplayer battles.

A laggy connection can spell the difference between victory and defeat, as every split second matters in the digital arena.

So, what broadband speed is actually required for gaming, and how can you guarantee that your internet is ready for the challenge?

Ideal Broadband Speeds For Gamers

While basic ADSL broadband might suffice for online playing, it’s recommended to aim for speeds above 25Mbps for optimal performance on the latest consoles with 4K capabilities.

Why the need for speed? Well, it’s all about ensuring smooth gameplay with minimal lag and buffering.

That’s where fibre broadband comes into play, offering higher speeds and more reliable connections tailored for today’s demanding gaming landscape.

For an even more immersive journey, consider speeds of 50Mbps or higher.

These are readily available on standard fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC) plans, and if you’re lucky enough to have fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) in your area, you can achieve lightning-fast speeds.

Use our free postcode checker today and explore the fastest speeds in your area.

However, keep in mind the other internet activities happening in your household.

Streaming, downloading, and browsing by other household members can all impact the bandwidth available for your gaming adventures.

Why Reliable Broadband Is Key For Gamers

Below, our experts have explained why fast broadband is so important, as well as considerations to make when finding your next deal to power your gaming sessions.

  1. Low Latency and High Stability: One of the primary factors that distinguish a good internet connection for gaming is low latency. Latency refers to the delay between when you input a command and when it’s executed in the game. A wired connection typically offers lower latency compared to Wi-Fi, as highlighted by Intel’s gaming resources. With a wired connection, data travels directly through the Ethernet cable, resulting in minimal delays and smoother gameplay. This is crucial, especially in fast-paced and competitive games where split-second reactions can determine success.
  2. Bandwidth Requirements: While low latency is crucial, sufficient bandwidth is also essential for a seamless gaming experience. Bandwidth determines how much data can be transmitted within a specific timeframe. According to HighSpeedInternet.com, the recommended internet speed for online gaming varies depending on the type of game and the number of players. For example, multiplayer online games generally require lower bandwidth compared to massive multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) due to the increased amount of data being exchanged between players and servers.
  3. Consistent Performance: A stable internet connection is necessary to prevent sudden drops in performance, such as lag spikes or disconnections, which can disrupt gameplay and frustrate players. NordVPN emphasizes the importance of consistent performance, noting that even minor interruptions in internet connectivity can result in a subpar gaming experience. Whether you’re engaging in a critical raid with teammates or participating in an E-sports tournament, uninterrupted connectivity ensures that you can stay focused and perform at your best.
  4. Enhanced Multiplayer Experience: In today’s gaming landscape, multiplayer gaming dominates the scene, with titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty, and League of Legends attracting millions of players worldwide. A good internet connection not only facilitates smooth gameplay but also enhances the overall multiplayer experience. With minimal lag and reliable connectivity, gamers can enjoy seamless communication with teammates, coordinate strategies effectively, and immerse themselves fully in cooperative or competitive gameplay.
  5. Future-Proofing: As technology continues to advance and game developers push the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, the demand for faster and more reliable internet connections will only increase. Investing in a good internet connection now not only ensures an optimal gaming experience today but also future-proofs your setup for upcoming games and innovations in online gaming technology.

How Does Ping-Rate Affecting Gameplay?

Lag, also referred to as ping rate, is a crucial factor that impacts gameplay. A higher ping rate leads to delays between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the action on screen, particularly problematic in fast-paced games.

Choosing a 100Mbps full-fibre package offers not just faster speeds but also reduces lag, enhancing overall performance.

Moreover, faster internet allows others in your household to use the internet simultaneously without affecting your gameplay negatively.

Other Facts to Consider

Experiencing connectivity issues? It’s not always just about internet speed.

For a more stable connection, consider opting for a wired connection over Wi-Fi.

However, there are other factors at play too.

Router problems can also be a culprit. Sometimes, a simple reboot or repositioning of your router can work wonders in improving your connection.

Moreover, if your router is outdated, it may struggle to support the latest games console technology.

In such cases, consider requesting a new router from your provider or exploring other provider options altogether.

Switching to a new provider could offer you a router better suited to your gaming requirements, along with a faster and more reliable internet service.

Get expert advice and explore the latest broadband offers for free today.

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Bridging The Gap: Broadband In Rural Areas of The UK

Rural broadband

Our Guide to Rural Broadband

Access to high-speed broadband has become a necessity rather than a luxury.

However, high-speed rural broadband is still more of a rarity than it should be.

Despite advancements in technology, the digital divide persists, leaving rural areas underserved and disconnected. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the challenges faced by rural communities regarding broadband speed and explore potential solutions to bridge this gap.

According to Ofcom, just over 14% of rural properties in the UK still do not have access to superfast broadband, which is defined as having download speeds of at least 30 Mbps.

Consequently, rural broadband remains an issue, hindering economic growth, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life for residents.

Why Is Broadband Lagging In Rural Areas?

The disparities in rural broadband speed stem from several factors:

  1. Infrastructure Challenges: Rural areas often lack the necessary infrastructure for high-speed internet access. Sparse population density makes it economically unfeasible for internet service providers (ISPs) to invest in laying fibre optic cables or upgrading existing infrastructure.
  2. Cost Barriers: Building broadband infrastructure in rural areas can be prohibitively expensive. The return on investment for ISPs may not justify the initial capital outlay required, leaving rural communities underserved.
  3. Topographical Limitations: Geographic features such as mountains, valleys, and dense forests can pose significant challenges to broadband deployment. These natural barriers obstruct signals and make it difficult to establish reliable connections in remote areas.
  4. Regulatory Hurdles: Regulatory frameworks and bureaucratic processes can impede the expansion of broadband networks in rural regions. Obtaining permits and navigating zoning regulations add layers of complexity to infrastructure projects, delaying implementation and exacerbating the digital divide.

What Types of Rural Broadband Deals Can I Pick From?

Depending on where you live, you might be able to access traditional fixed line broadband (usually copper phone lines.)

However, if this is not available, you might be able to pick from:

Wireless broadband: Through the use of radio signals transmitted from local transmitters, wireless broadband provides internet access to areas where fixed-line connections are not feasible.

Satellite broadband: Satellite broadband relies on satellite communication to deliver internet services to remote and isolated regions, offering a viable option for rural households without access to other types of broadband.

Mobile broadband: Leveraging mobile network infrastructure, mobile broadband allows users to connect to the internet via cellular networks, providing flexibility and mobility for rural residents.

How Is The Government Planning to Increase Rural Broadband Speeds?

So, what can be done to address these challenges and ensure equitable access to high-speed broadband in rural areas?

  1. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Collaboration between governments, private sector entities, and local communities can facilitate broadband expansion in rural areas. PPPs can leverage resources, expertise, and funding to overcome infrastructure challenges and accelerate network deployment.
  2. Incentive Programs: Governments can incentivize ISPs to invest in rural broadband infrastructure through subsidies, tax breaks, and grants. By offering financial incentives, policymakers can encourage private sector involvement in expanding connectivity to underserved communities.
  3. Technology Innovation: Embracing innovative technologies such as satellite internet, fixed wireless access, and 5G networks can overcome traditional infrastructure limitations in rural areas. These alternative solutions offer cost-effective ways to deliver high-speed internet to remote regions.
  4. Policy Reform: Streamlining regulatory processes and removing barriers to broadband deployment can expedite network expansion in rural areas. Policymakers must enact policies that encourage investment, competition, and innovation in the telecommunications sector while prioritizing the needs of rural communities.
  5. Community Empowerment: Empowering local communities to take ownership of broadband projects can foster grassroots initiatives and drive momentum for change. Community-led networks, cooperatives, and DIY solutions can supplement traditional ISP offerings and fill connectivity gaps in rural areas.

What is Project Gigabit?

Project Gigabit is a UK government initiative aimed at accelerating the rollout of lightning-fast broadband networks to the most remote areas of the country.

By investing £5 billion, the project seeks to bridge the digital divide by ensuring that even rural communities have access to gigabit-capable broadband, with speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps.

This ambitious undertaking aims to transform connectivity in rural areas, unlocking new opportunities for businesses and improving access to online services for residents – and all by 2025.

How to Improve Your Home Broadband Speed

Here are some quick tips to increase rural broadband speeds at home:

  1. Position your router strategically: Place your router in a central location within your home to ensure optimal coverage and signal strength throughout.
  2. Use wired connections: Whenever possible, connect devices directly to the router using Ethernet cables instead of relying on Wi-Fi, as wired connections generally offer faster and more stable speeds.
  3. Minimise interference: Keep electronic devices that can interfere with Wi-Fi signals, such as microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors, away from your router.
  4. Update router firmware: Regularly check for updates for your router’s firmware and install them to ensure it is running efficiently and securely.
  5. Invest in a Wi-Fi extender or booster: If certain areas of your home have weak Wi-Fi signals, consider using a Wi-Fi extender or booster to amplify the signal and improve coverage.
  6. Limit background activities: Avoid running bandwidth-intensive activities such as large file downloads or streaming videos on multiple devices simultaneously, as these can slow down your internet speeds.
  7. Upgrade your broadband plan: Check with your internet service provider (ISP) to see if faster broadband plans are available in your area and consider upgrading to a higher-speed plan if necessary. You can instantly search offers in your area using our free tool.

In conclusion, bridging the broadband speed gap in rural areas requires concerted efforts from policymakers, industry stakeholders, and community leaders.

By investing in infrastructure, fostering innovation, and adopting inclusive policies, we can ensure that no community is left behind in the digital age.

Access to high-speed broadband is not just a matter of convenience—it’s a fundamental right that empowers individuals, stimulates economic growth, and fosters social inclusion.

It’s time to level the playing field and build a more connected future for all. Search our broadband offers and get expert advice today.

 

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The End of Landline Phones Explained

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Ready to Part With Your Landline?

In recent years, the traditional landline phone, once a household staple, has faced a steady decline in usage across the UK.

The average household now uses their landline phone for as little as 35 minutes per week. This has dropped considerably in the last two years – by almost a quarter!

With the emergence of advanced technology and the rapid expansion of broadband networks, the era of landline phones is approaching its twilight. However, this isn’t a change to be feared – it’s one for us all to embrace.

A Lightning-Fast Future is Coming

The UK’s major broadband providers have set their sights on a transformative journey, signalling substantial changes post-2025 that could shape the future of telecommunications for good.

The narrative of landline phones losing their prominence in UK households has been gradually unfolding. We’ve all slowly become more mobile-focused, especially in the last 10 years.

There are now as many as 111.8 million mobile phone subscriptions across the UK. No one needs to stay tethered to their landline cord or get wrapped up in knots trying to pace the room when we have the flexibility of mobile phones.

Why Has Landline Phone Use Declined?

Aside from the rise in mobile, what else has knocked landline phones off the top spot?

  • Technological advancements: High-speed internet and the availability of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services have become much more enhanced and widely available.
  • Demographic shifts: Younger generations tend to rely more on mobile and internet-based communication, which goes hand in hand with our previous point mentioned above.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Landline phone services are often perceived as less cost-effective compared to bundled mobile or internet packages, especially nowadays.

Post-2025 Plans for Landline Phones

All major UK broadband providers are preparing for a significant shift in their offerings post-2025.

As part of a forward-looking strategy, these providers have already made some transformative plans.

The plans include:

Phasing Out Traditional Landline Services

Broadband giants are gradually phasing-out conventional phone services. One way that they are doing this is by subtly encouraging customers to switch from ADSL to full fibre.

Enhanced VoIP Integration

Providers are poised to bolster their VoIP offerings, elevating them to primary communication solutions for households and businesses. This strategic shift aims to deliver feature-rich, reliable, and cost-effective voice services over broadband connections.

Investment in Broadband Infrastructure

Anticipating the increased demand for robust broadband connectivity, providers are working hard to expand and enhance broadband infrastructure. This includes bringing full fibre connections to as much of the UK as possible and improving VoIP capabilities.

Will I Lose Access to my Landline Phone?

Despite the race to implement speedy VoIP technology officially being on, it won’t suddenly cut off your landline access – but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen eventually!

Say if for example, you took out a new broadband deal today, by the time you come to switch or renew, your landline phone will likely be redundant.

Any further broadband deals after this time will no longer be bundled with a landline phone and internet speeds needed for VoIP will ne promptly considered.

Are There Any Downfalls to Know About?

Recently, concerns were raised by MPs about how effective the nationwide transition to VoIP will be.

Vulnerable bill payers that still rely on their landline phone will face the biggest loss, especially during bouts of extreme weather.

This is because internet connections can be affected by extreme weather, whereas in comparison, landlines are unfaltering.

Embracing the Landline Switch-Off

The impending ‘big switch off’ will significantly change the way consumers and businesses communicate.

In our opinion, it’s for the better, too!

We’ve outlined the main benefits of switching to VoIP below:

Cost Savings

VoIP call charges are significantly lower, especially for long-distance communication. To put it into perspective, landline calls can cost up to 20p per minute, whereas VoIP calls only cost 1.5p per minute.

Flexibility and Mobility

VoIP enables flexibility as calls can be made from any internet-connected device, allowing users to stay connected even while on the go. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for remote workers.

Advanced Features

VoIP systems often come with a range of advanced features such as voicemail-to-email transcription, call forwarding, conference calling and many more.

Scalability

One for business owners – the scalability of VoIP! Businesses are able to add or remove lines as needed without requiring significant infrastructure changes, making it adaptable and flexible.

Integration with Technology

VoIP integrates seamlessly with other technologies and software, enabling easier collaboration through video conferencing, instant messaging, and file sharing.

Enhanced Accessibility

VoIP systems can offer accessibility features which cater to diverse user needs, including options for individuals with disabilities.

Geographical Flexibility: Another one for the business owners! With VoIP, businesses can have phone numbers from different area codes, providing a local presence in multiple regions without physical office locations or hefty calling charges.

Say Goodbye to Landline and Switch to VoIP

The shift away from landline phones signifies a transformative moment in the UK’s communication landscape.

The time has come to bid farewell to the landline phone and embrace a future where robust broadband connections pave the way for an interconnected world.

Switch Experts is committed to keeping you informed about the evolving trends in communication and technology. Stay connected for more updates and insights.

You can also get a head start by searching for the best prices on the latest broadband deals in your area.

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What Exactly is 4G Broadband?

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4G or Fibre?

Don’t be fooled by the name – 4G broadband is very different to your traditional home Wi-Fi!

In some cases, it might be a better option for you.

We’ll explain all the how’s, what’s and why’s you might have.

What is 4G Broadband?

4G broadband is a cutting-edge internet connection.

It’s often used as an effective substitute for regular broadband, and we’ve explained why.

Unlike standard phone-line-based arrangements, 4G broadband frees you from the constraints of wire.

How?

By delivering a smooth internet connection to households over the omnipresent 4G mobile network that spans the majority of the UK.

Why Not Just Use Wi-Fi?

In some areas, internet suppliers have limited infrastructure.

This means that some homes simply can’t access faster broadband because they don’t have fibre optic cables installed in their area.

People living in more rural towns might also find that they have limited choice of suppliers and consequently fewer deals to pick from.

Whilst fibre coverage is expanding every day, lots of people are understandably looking for alternative Wi-Fi solutions.

How do I Access 4G Broadband?

You can connect to 4G broadband in a few ways.

Our experts have covered the main three ways below:

‘Tethering’ – The ‘tethering’ feature on your smartphone effectively turns it into a Wi-Fi hotspot. You will be able to connect a small number of gadgets and devices, but your usage will be limited. You might also notice that your mobile data is quickly eaten up when you do this, so it’s key to review your contract terms.

A Mobile Broadband ‘Dongle’ – A mobile broadband ‘dongle’ is a small gadget with 4G or 5G capability. It connects your devices using Wi-Fi or a USB to give you internet access. Compared to ‘tethering’, you can access more data and at a faster speed with a dongle.

A Dedicated Router – By using a dedicated router, you can connect more devices and handle more traffic than you can with tethering or dongles. Most large mobile networks offer this type of router, as it gives you a strong connection wherever you go.

What are the Benefits of 4G Broadband?

There’s a lot of important benefits to 4G broadband.

Our experts rate the top five perks to be:

  • Reliable Speeds. 4G broadband is faster than the speeds you receive to your mobile phone, as it uses more advanced hardware.  This is what makes it comparable to broadband, rather than mobile data signal.
  • Widely Available. Because 4G is practically everywhere, it is an excellent choice for rural WiFi and other areas lacking cable infrastructure.
  • No Fuss Set-up. Installation is quick and simple, requiring little to no setup.
  • Portable. Certain routers can be transported with you when you travel, allowing them to deliver WiFi in a caravan, for example.
  • Flexible Packages. You are not usually locked in long term with 4G broadband, as flexible packages are more readily available. One of our suppliers even offers a 30-day rolling contract.

Are There any Drawbacks of 4G Broadband?

Despite all the benefits, there are a few factors to consider.

  • Limited Bandwidth and Speed: 4G networks can provide impressive speeds, but they still have limitations in terms of bandwidth compared to newer technologies like 5G. As more users connect to a 4G tower, the available bandwidth is shared, leading to potential slowdowns during peak usage times. This is especially the case in densely populated areas or during crowded events.
  • Signal Interference: 4G signals can be affected by physical obstacles such as buildings and trees. Interference can lead to weaker signals and reduced network coverage, particularly in rural areas.
  • Limited Coverage: We’ve already hinted at this one! While 4G coverage is widespread in many areas, it may not be available in more remote or rural locations. This is something we can help you identify.
  • Data Caps and Throttling: Many 4G broadband plans come with data usage limits and may impose throttling or reduced speeds once those limits are reached. This can be a concern for heavy data users who rely on consistent high-speed connections.
  • Security Concerns: 4G networks, like any wireless technology, can be vulnerable to security breaches. Unauthorized access to the network can pose risks to user privacy and data security.

What About 5G Broadband?

5G works the same as 4G – it’s just considerably faster!

5G broadband is still fairly new and therefore less widely available than 4G, but coverage is growing consistently.

Your supplier will let you know if you’re eligible for 5G, as this depends solely on their network.

It’s also worth noting that 5G is currently more expensive than 4G.

Should I Consider Getting a 4G Broadband Deal?

If you live in a rural area with limited internet availability, it could be a perfect solution for you.

4G and 5G broadband solutions are growing in popularity due to being flexible, fairly priced, and reliable.

However, if your area also struggles with flaky mobile signal, this could affect your service.

This is something our experts can help you decide.

Start searching for the latest deals in your area today and see which plan is best suited to you.

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Here’s Why you Need to Embrace 5G

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You may have noticed some tall masts in your area.

Sure, we know they’re a bit of an eye-sore.

But if you rely heavily on mobile internet, you’ll soon realise you’re actually in luck!

5G is set to change the way the entire world communicates, so here’s our expert deep dive.

First there was 3G – now we’re on another level

It was 10 years ago when 4G networks started taking over from 3G.

Fast forward 7 years to 2019, when 5G was first introduced by mobile networks EE and Vodafone.

5G was designed to be up to 10X faster than 4G.

Using smaller wavelengths and higher frequencies, this means that more users can connect simultaneously – without sacrificing speed.

This means the average mobile user connected to 5G could download nearly an hour of Netflix content in less than 20 milliseconds!

The issue of availability

You might be thinking, if 5G is so great, why aren’t we all connected to it?

There are two main issues preventing this being from being the case.

The issue of availability is still prevalent, with some more rural parts of the UK yet to see any developments.

New areas are becoming eligible every week, and 5G is expected to be available nationwide by 2025.

There’s also the issue of price – seeing as a lot of networks need you to buy their latest model.

This can quickly become off-putting if you compare alone, which is why we’ve made it easy to see every deal in one place.

Which networks offer 5G currently?­

EE, O2, Sky, Three, Vodafone and Tesco Mobile currently boast the most 5G coverage across the UK.

What’s more, major phone makes including Samsung, Apple and Huawei all offer 5G compatible models – and the list is always growing.

Why don’t you check your eligibility for free today?

What about 5G broadband?

5G broadband is already on the way. However, 4G broadband has been popular for years – and it’s not going away any time soon.

With 4G broadband, you essentially use a mobile router, which relies on air waves instead of a wired signal.

If you have strong mobile service where you are (but maybe not the best Wi-Fi options), this could be the solution for you.

Currently, EE, Three, Vodafone and Neatley, an independent supplier we’re proud to support, all offer 4G broadband deals.

If your network already offers 5G and mobile broadband, you’ll get the best of both worlds!

Will 5G replace 4G for good?

As previously mentioned, 5G isn’t predicted to be used across the UK until 2025.

Until then, 4G remains the go-to in a lot of areas.

This doesn’t mean incredible developments aren’t in the works every day. Plans for 5G use include high-tech bus shelters, street/traffic lights and modernised healthcare, just to include a few.

It also has the power to improve energy sustainability across the UK, with large businesses looking to invest.

Ready to upgrade?

Have we caught your attention?

It’s understandable – who wouldn’t want the fastest mobile speeds possible?

Regardless of how you plan on using 5G, we’ll make sure you get the right deal.

Before diving headfirst into plans and providers, you should compare with our friendly experts to ensure you find the right price.

 

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