The latest developments in the AltNet space – Sept 2022
Loads of great things are happening in the alternative internet (AltNet) space. There’s no way we could cover all of them in one blog. But we have managed to curate a selection of the best and most important developments.
And we added a link that will help you find better, cheaper, and faster broadband deals. You’re welcome!
Full fibre broadband arrives in Beardwood
Full fibre broadband has arrived in Beardwood, Blackburn. Built by AltNet provider MaxFibre the fibre optic network will deliver lightning-fast download speeds directly into homes and business premises. Packages start from £27.99p/m and can guarantee speeds of up to 900Mbps. All new customers receive their first 30 days of broadband for free.
“We’re excited about our new network build in Beardwood, Blackburn,” said a MaxFibre spokesperson. “Beardwood is one of the many North West areas that has struggled with poor connection for years. Residents were crying out for better broadband; MaxFibre answered.”
More free broadband
Here’s more news proving that the AltNets are always on their customer’s side. Hyperoptic, a London-based independent internet service provider, is offering nine months of full-fibre internet free. Could you imagine Virgin doing that? We don’t think so!
Hyperoptic’s new Switch Now deals offer free broadband for up to nine months for households stuck in contracts with other providers. The contract runs alongside current deals, guaranteeing zero loss of service. How awesome is that?
“This is a ground-breaking move, unprecedented in the world of broadband, but people across the UK need this support right now, said Hyperoptic CEO Dana Tobak. “We honestly believe that it’s the right of every household in the country to have fast, reliable, and affordable broadband.”
6Ginternet launches energy-saving package
North-west-based air-fibre broadband provider 6Ginternert is reducing its monthly bills this winter to help customers cover the cost of rising energy prices. This is the kind of practical support ordinary folk need right now!
Customers who sign up for a 24-month contract will pay a reduced rate of £9.99 for six months, with the discount kicking in at the start of October.
“Through no fault of their own, people’s money isn’t going as far as it used to. This isn’t right. Governments and ‘bigger’ broadband firms talk a good game about helping families struggling financially, but not enough is being done,” said a 6Ginternet spokesperson.
“Offering a reduced monthly rate of £9.99 that coincides with the energy price hikes is the kind of real help people need, just when they need it.”
Everybody is getting connected
One of the UK’s most remote villages now has its own full fibre broadband network. This is what the full fibre revolution is all about.
Tucked away in North Devon, Hartland Quay is about as remote as it can get. Its secluded location meant digital connectivity was a real problem. But not anymore.
Thanks to government funding from Project Gigabit, Airband was able to lay over 15miles of fibre optic internet cable in Hartland Quay and the surrounding area. Residents and business owners will soon have the best coastal views and fastest internet speeds available in the UK.
They include local hotel owner Donal Stafford.
“Full fibre will be great for us,” said Donal. “We’re at the end of the line here, from a connectivity perspective. We have a couple of incoming lines, but the best we can get is 6MB now.”
“It’s crucial we have connectivity for our guests. And the systems we use now are all online, so having fast and secure full fibre access will make our lives much easier. It’ll make a massive difference.”
Full speed ahead for full fibre
The UK’s new Prime Minister, Liz Truss, has said it’s full speed ahead for the UK’s mission to connect more homes to high-speed, affordable full fibre broadband.
“The new Prime Minister knows we need to build broadband and digital infrastructure faster,” said a Downing Street press officer. “This is not a soundbite. We are firmly committed to funding the biggest broadband rollout in British history.”
According to sources with the Government, Truss’s new cabinet is exploring several options that could speed up network builds, including fast-track visas for engineers and skilled construction workers.
Joining the AltNet revolution
Millions of people now use alternative internet providers for their broadband.
It’s the smart choice.
AltNets are just as fast as mainstream providers and offer more affordable prices and a (much) better level of customer service.
Enter your postcode into the broadband market deal finder to see which alternative providers have live networks in your area.
