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The Next Best Thing To Full Fibre

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Published
04/03/2025

Full fibre broadband (FTTP) isn't available in every area yet, however, several good alternatives can offer internet connectivity that is fast and reliable. If you’re unable to access full-fibre, you may be surprised at what options you do have. Let’s take a look at the next best choices:

 

Fibre-to-the-cabinet (FTTC)

A widely available option that offers a combination of fibre-optic cables to the cabinet in the street and copper wires to the home. It doesn’t have quite the speed of full fibre however performance is still decent:

  •   Speeds - Usually up to 80 Mbps (which is enough for a single person generally), with the distance from the street cabinet having a bearing on this
  •   Reliability - More stability compared to older ADSL connections, but copper line quality can affect this
  •   Availability - Widely accessible in both urban and suburban areas

 

Cable Broadband

Cable broadband uses coaxial cables to deliver internet services faster than FTTC connectivity, while also being available in various areas that full-fibre isn’t available:

  •   Speeds - In some areas, they can reach up to 300mbps
  •   Reliability - They’re less prone to interference when compared to copper lines
  •   Availability - They’re often available in both urban and suburban areas

 

Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)

This form of connection delivers internet via radio signals from a nearby base station. These signals are sent to a receiver at your home. This makes it a good option for rural areas:

  •   Speeds - FWA speeds can range from 30 Mbps to 100 Mbps, depending on provider and location
  •   Reliability -  Generally, this form of connectivity is stable but weather and line-of-sight obstructions can affect it
  •   Availability - It’s good for areas where wired connections are limited

 

Mobile Broadband (4G/5G)

Mobile broadband uses mobile networks in order to provide internet access. This option has become increasingly viable with the rollout of 5G – now your smartphone can connect your entire home:

  •   Speeds -  4G offers up to 150 Mbps, 5G can exceed 1 Gbps when conditions are optimal
  •   Reliability - This depends on network coverage and signal strength
  •   Availability -  It’s widely available with most phone contracts now, and 5G is expanding rapidly in urban areas

 

Satellite Broadband

Satellite broadband is another choice for rural or remote locations where other options are not available:

  •   Speeds - These range from between 20 Mbps and 100 Mbps, with newer services offering higher speeds. This is suitable for less browse-active households
  •   Reliability - Weather conditions and latency issues can affect its speeds
  •   Availability - Accessible almost anywhere as long as there is a clear view of the sky

 

What should you think about when choosing an alternative?

Let’s take a look at some of the things you should consider when looking for an alternative to full-fibre:

  •   Speed requirements - Consider the internet usage of your household to make sure you get the right speed
  •   Cost - Compare the costs of several different options, including installation and monthly fees
  •   Contract terms -  Check for flexibility, especially if full fibre may become available in your area soon and you plan to make the change
  •   Provider reputation - Research customer reviews and look at reliability ratings

 

While full-fibre is the gold standard when it comes to broadband, there are several good alternatives for people who can’t yet access it. Whether it’s FTTC, cable, or mobile broadband, the choice that you make depends on your location, your budget and, of course, usage requirements. With advances in technology, non-fibre options are becoming faster and more reliable, giving you plenty of flexibility until full fibre reaches your area.

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