New Broadband Speed Code of Practice

Ofcom, the Office of Communications, have this week introduced a new voluntary broadband speed code of practice which will mean broadband customers will get more accurate information on broadband speeds from their broadband providers, their Internet Service Providers or ISPs, at the point of sale.

Many ISPs have signed up to this new broadband speed code of practice, including AOL, BT Total, IDNet, O2, Orange Home, Nildram, Pipex, PlusNet, Sky, TalkTalk, Tiscali and Virgin Media. It means that 95% of broadband customers are covered by the code.

According to Ofcom, under the code the ISPs are to provide customers with an accurate estimate of the maximum speed their line can support. They are to explain how speeds may slow down due to technical factors and give advice on how to improve matters at home.

If the speed is a lot lower than estimated, the ISPs will have to offer an alternative package, if available, without penalties. They are also expected to clearly explain any fair use policies and advise customers if they breach these.

Ofcom will be monitoring the broadband providers who have signed up to the code over the next six months to make sure they are sticking to it.