Slow broadband can be incredibly frustrating - whether you are working from home, streaming your favourite show or trying to play online with your friends.
Millions of UK broadband users are still having issues with downloads, dropouts and outages despite being hit by record price hikes this year, according to the latest update from consumer group Which?.
Following a recent survey, it was revealed that of 4,000 polled, 53 per cent are experiencing persistent issues with their connection in the year to January 2023, reports The Mirror.
The poll also identified the providers experiencing the most issues. At the bottom of the list you will find Sky, Virgin Media, and EE, with all three providers receiving the lowest numbers of users who had not experienced issues with their service. Just 32 per cent of Sky customers, 35 per cent of Virgin customers and 37 per cent of EE users were issue free.
The survey found that BT faired a little better, with 49 per cent of users who are contracted with the UK's biggest provider not experiencing performance issues in the 12 month period,
Coming out on top are Hyperoptic, Shell Energy Broadband and Utility Warehouse, with all three found to perform much batter.
At least 50 per cent of customers were issue free when it comes to broadband using over the past year.
However, even the suppliers coming out on top were found to have some issues, with four of ten customers facing problems in the 12 month period.
Which? stated that slow uploads and download speeds were a common complaint, impacting one in seven (15 per cent) of customers overall.
Many users reported they were left without a connection for at least an hour during the survey period.
Unfortunately, with many tied into contracts, there is not too much that can be done if left unhappy with the performance of their ISP.
However, those out of contract can consider switching if facing issues. Shopping around can help you find the best deal for you.
Speaking about the latest research, Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “A reliable connection is essential to modern life. Earlier this year, many broadband consumers were hit with mid-contract price hikes of more than 14 per cent - meaning that it's more important than ever that their provider offers a reliable connection and good customer service.
“It's completely unacceptable that customers who have faced these eye-watering increases are also experiencing so many problems with their connection. Broadband firms need to work harder to resolve these issues and offer a better service.
“While some customers are able to switch away to better service and prices, many are trapped in contracts where they either have to accept above inflation price hikes in the spring or pay exorbitant exit fees to leave the contract early. It’s absolutely critical that Ofcom’s review of inflation linked mid-contract hikes results in changes that ensure customers are never trapped in this situation again.”
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