20.7m UK homes can now access full-fibre broadband
Latest report from regulator Ofcom shows rapid rollout of better, faster broadband, with average UK download speed of 223 megabits per second
The latest, annual Connected Nation report published by communications regulator Ofcom reveals that 69% of all UK homes, some 20.7m of them, can access full-fibre broadband services. That’s a huge leap from the 57% of homes or 17.1m who could access such services in September 2023.
Photo by Gavin Allanwood
In Northern Ireland, which is way ahead of the UK, 93% of homes can access full-fibre.
What’s more, the report says the figures are even better if we count full-fibre and cable networks, with 83% of UK homes, or 25m of them, able to access gigabit-capable broadband. The government target of 85% by the end of 2025 is well within reach and liable to be exceeded.
We’ve reported recently on a range of initiatives to provide high-speed connections to the last, hard-to-reach parts of the UK, such as via satellites or using existing infrastructure such as water pipes. At the same time, conventional gigabit-capable infrastructure is continuing to reach rural areas, such as to more than 34,000 rural homes across Nottingham and West Lincolnshire.
More and more of us are taking advantage of such services. Between May and July 2024, the percentage of households signed up to a full-fibre broadband rose from 28% to 35%, the latter representing some 7.5m households. In rural areas, where such services are available more than half of households (52%) have signed up. The figure is lower in towns and cities, with 32% sign-up.
The report reveals a range of other trends. Connections to the satellite broadband service Starlink more than doubled in the past year, from 42,000 to 87,000 – again, mostly in rural areas. Deployment of 5G networks have also steadily increased.
In addition, the new Connected Nation report notes the ways in which Ofcom has improved the way in which reports mobile coverage to better reflect the lived experience of customers.
Natalie Black, Networks and Communications Group Director at Ofcom, says: ‘It’s a record-breaking year for broadband in the UK, as the roll out of full fibre continues to steam ahead. Whether you’re running a business, streaming your favourite programmes, or doing Christmas shopping online, it’s more likely than ever that you’ll be able to benefit from a fast and reliable broadband connection.’
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