Michael Phillips, product development director of broadband comparison service BroadbandChoices.co.uk, talks about how to choose the right broadband provider.

Today's broadband market has become extremely competitive with providers vying for the UK's rapidly growing 11.5 million broadband users. So whether you're looking for your first broadband package, or want to switch away from your current provider for a better deal, there are a few things you should watch out for.

What is available in your area?
First of all, check which ISPs can connect in your area and give you the download speed advertised. The further away you are from the exchange the slower speed you'll get. In our experience you'll get the promised speeds only 35 per cent of the time. You can download our speed test monitor at BroadbandChoices.co.uk to find out what kind of speeds you can expect to pick up in your area.

What type of package is best for you?
There are many different types of packages available and its important to look into each one carefully before taking out the service.

If you're choosing a cheap or "free" broadband deal, take into account the quality of service you will be getting. Best value doesn't always mean cheapest. Look beyond the price and get a package that really suits you. Consider the customer service level, cost and opening hours of the call centre.

Even if you're signed up to an unlimited package, you could still be capped under the conditions of your ISP's 'fair usage' policy. Around 75 per cent of packages have download limitations and most ISP's will penalise your for exceeding this limit - usually it's not 'unlimited'.

If you opt for a 'no contract' broadband deal it isn't quite so straightforward as it seems. In order to cover costs, many ISP's charge more per month if no long-term contract has been signed. Also those who don't pay their bills via direct debit should be aware of any late payment fines.

Many ISP's will offer to bundle your broadband with a low-cost phone package to save you money on calls. The package deals change frequently, but you should be able to find a cheap deal that gives you unlimited weekend calls. These bundles also offer a convenient one-bill solution that cuts down on paperwork and hassle.

How much do you download?
To choose a package that best suits your needs, it's important to measure how much you download. For example, you will only need a 2MB package if you'll only be checking emails and browsing the web. If you're not sure how much you actually download, why not use a download monitor to track your internet use? Check out broadbandchoices.co.uk/broadband-download-monitor.html. It's quick to install and is easy to use, and you can even set alarms to stop you going over your limit. And if you're not downloading much you may find you're actually on the wrong package and could opt for a cheaper alternative.

Coming out of a contract?
Something to look out for when closing a contract… ISP's may be reluctant to issue you with a Migration Authorisation Code (MAC), making it difficult to switch providers - leaving you with a break in your connection. Your ISP is now obliged to provide a MAC code so you can switch, however beware the code is not applicable to services delivered by cable, such as Virgin Media (formerly ntl:Telewest).

Cheapest UK broadband packages

Supplier: Virgin Media
Package details: Broadband: M
Speed (up to): 2Mb
Minimum contract: 12 months
Download limit: Unlimited
Connection fee: £25
1st year cost: £59
Monthly charge: £4.50
Notes: You must take a Virgin Media landline, costing £11 per month

Supplier: TalkTalk
Package details: 8Mb Broadband & Talk 2 International
Speed (up to): 8Mb
Minimum contract: 18 months
Download limit: 40GB
Connection fee: £29.99
1st year cost: £100.67
Monthly charge: £5.89
Notes: You must switch your landline and calls to TalkTalk

Supplier: PlusNet
Package details: Option 1 (Free Router)
Speed (up to): 8Mb
Minimum contract: 12 months
Download limit: 1GB
Connection fee: Free
1st year cost: £125.87
Monthly charge: £9.99

Supplier: Tiscali
Package details: Tiscali Broadband 2Mb Free Weekend Talk
Speed (up to): 2Mb
Minimum contract: 12 months
Download limit: Unlimited
Connection fee: Free
1st year cost: £136.38
Monthly charge: £6.49 for 3 months, £12.99 thereafter
Notes: £6.49 for 3 months, free line rental (worth £10.99 if you in a Tiscali network area)

Supplier: Pipex
Package details: Pipex Mini 8Mb Evening and Weekend Calls
Speed (up to): 8Mb
Minimum contract: 12 months
Download limit: 1GB
Connection fee: Free
1st year cost: £125.87
Monthly charge: £9.99

For more information about finding the right broadband provider for you, please visit www.BroadbandChoices.co.uk.

The article How to choose a broadband provider originally appeared on 999 Today