Types of connection & funding

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Finding alternative solutions to poor internet connection in North Wales

Types of connection & funding

Let’s explore other means to connect so you don’t miss out.

Cabled internet

Cabled internet solutions are provided through either a copper cable (like a phone cable) or a fibre optic cable.

The type of cable used can significantly impact the speed of the service.

Here are the main types of cabled internet connections:

ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line)
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a type of broadband that provides an internet connection through the same line as your home phone.

FTTC (Fibre To The Cabinet)
Fibre To The Cabinet (FTTC) uses the copper phone lines from the street cabinet to your premises, but it connects the exchange via a fibre optic cable.

FTTP (Fibre to the Premise)
Fibre to the Premise (FTTP) is the ultimate internet connection. It utilises fibre optic cables from the exchange to the premise.

4G

4G is like a high-speed train in the world of mobile internet connectivity. Having 4G is like travelling on a wide road that allows more cars to travel at the same time which helps reduce traffic.

It is important to compare different 4G internet tariffs to find the best option for your community's needs and budget. In the UK, there are four major 4G providers

EE, Three, Vodafone and O2

These support several service providers including Giffgaff, Libara, Tesco Mobile etc. View 4G mobile availability via the OFCOM Checker

Advantages

Speed
Improved Performance
Security

Limitations

Coverage
Battery Drainage
Cost

5G

It’s a significant upgrade from the 4G technology and roll-out continues across the UK.

Check 5G Coverage Signalchecker.co.uk

Satellite internet

Satellite internet is a type of internet connection that uses satellites to transmit data.

The process involves a signal travelling from your device to a satellite in space, and then back down to earth to a ground station and finally back to your device.

Exploring satellite internet options

Advancements in technology have led to the development of low Earth orbit satellites, which are much quicker, reducing latency significantly.

One major provider of this service is Starlink, offering speeds between 50-230 Mbps, making it a viable option for those in need of high-speed internet. Other current competitors include Cerberus which offer lower prices, but slower speeds.

Overcoming common satellite internet challenges

It requires a clear line of sight to the sky.

This means that satellite dishes located in valleys or near the base of cliffs may struggle to track the moving satellites.

Additionally, bad weather can affect the signal quality, leading to slower speeds or interruptions in service.

Wireless Internet Service Provider

For rural areas, fixed mast solutions can be a viable alternative. A Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) erects a mast, ideally as high as possible, to ensure line of sight connectivity. This mast, equipped with a fast internet connection, shares this connection via a wireless antenna.

If the premises has a clear line of sight to the antenna, it can receive a signal.

Pros

Accessibility
Cost

Cons

Line of Sight
Weather Sensitivity
Overselling

Funding

Funding is available in Wales but navigating the world of broadband funding can be complex. Understanding the available options can make a significant difference to your claim.

Universal Service Obligation (USO)

The broadband Universal Service Obligation (USO) gives people in the UK the right to request a decent and affordable broadband connection of at least 10Mbps.

Gigabit Vouchers

The UK Government provides a grant called ‘Gigabit Vouchers,’ which offers funding for fibre- based internet installations.

This grant gives eligible premises up to £4,500 towards the cost of having fibre installed.

Want to speak with someone?

We understand that sometimes you just want to speak with someone about your specific issues and get reassurances or advice from a human being.

During the coming months, we’ll be holding informal drop in sessions in convenient places throughout North Wales to help individuals with their internet queries.