One of the first things you will want after moving to the UK is a stable internet connection. Whether you are working from home, studying online, or just trying to watch your favourite show, a good WiFi setup is important.
This guide explains how broadband works in the UK, how to choose the right provider, and what to expect during installation. It is written for new arrivals, including expats, students, and remote workers, who want a simple explanation and helpful tips.
Step One: Check If Internet Is Already Set Up
Before signing a new contract, find out if your home already has internet. Ask your landlord, letting agent, or the person who rented the place before you.
Some rentals include WiFi in the price. Others may have a router already installed, but the service needs to be reactivated or moved to your name.
Step Two: Understand the UK Internet Market
The UK has many internet service providers, but most use the same infrastructure. This means your location matters more than your provider in many cases.
There are two main types of home internet:
Standard Fibre Broadband
- Speeds from 30 to 100 Mbps
- Good for everyday use like streaming and working
- Available almost everywhere
Full Fibre or Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
- Speeds of 100 to 900 Mbps
- Best for gaming, large households or heavy downloads
- Still limited in some areas
Use the provider’s postcode checker to see what is available in your location.
Step Three: Choose the Right Provider
Here are the most popular internet providers in the UK:
BT (British Telecom)
- Reliable nationwide coverage
- Offers standard and full fibre plans
- Router included
- Long contracts (usually 24 months)👉 View BT broadband deals
Virgin Media
- Fast speeds up to 1 Gbps
- No landline required
- Not available everywhere
- Higher price point👉 Check Virgin Media coverage
Sky Broadband
- Popular with families
- Often bundles with TV
- Good customer service👉 Compare Sky plans
EE
- Known for mobile and broadband bundles
- Often has good deals for mobile customers
- Reliable speeds👉 View EE broadband options
TalkTalk
- Affordable plans for light users
- Basic but budget friendly
- Shorter contracts sometimes available👉 Check TalkTalk offers
What You Will Need to Set Up Internet
Once you choose a provider, here is what happens next:
- Sign up online or by phone
- Pick a plan based on speed and contract length
- Book a delivery or installation date
- Wait for the router to arrive (usually 3 to 14 days)
- Set up the router using the guide that comes with it
Some addresses need an engineer to visit and connect your line. This is free in most cases but can take longer.
What to Consider Before You Choose
Speed
If you live alone or use the internet mainly for emails and browsing, 30 to 50 Mbps is enough. For streaming, video calls, or sharing with housemates, 100 Mbps or more is better.
Contract Length
Most plans require a 12 to 24 month contract. If you are staying short term, look for flexible or rolling contracts. Some providers offer no-contract options at higher monthly rates.
Price
Expect to pay between £20 and £40 per month for home broadband. Some promotions offer the first few months at a discount.
👉 Compare broadband prices and contract terms here
What If You Only Need Internet for a Short Stay?
If you are staying in the UK for just a few months, traditional contracts might not work well.
Here are other options:
Mobile Broadband
- Uses a portable router with a SIM card
- No installation required
- Works well for 1 to 3 people👉 Find mobile broadband deals
Tethering from Your Phone
- Use your phone’s data plan to connect your laptop
- Works in emergencies or for light use
- Not ideal long term unless you have unlimited data
How to Improve WiFi in Your Home
Once you are online, you might notice dead zones or slow speeds in some rooms. Here is how to fix that:
- Move the router to a central location
- Keep it off the floor and away from walls
- Use a WiFi booster or mesh system to extend the signal👉 Buy a WiFi booster here
Common Questions
How long does it take to get internet set up?
Usually between 3 and 14 days depending on the provider and whether an engineer is needed.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Most providers give you a 14 day cooling off period after sign-up.
Do I need a phone line?
Some providers still use a phone line, but others like Virgin Media do not.
Can I take my contract with me if I move?
Often yes, but not always. Check with your provider before signing up if you expect to move.
What About Public WiFi?
While waiting for home internet, you can stay connected using:
- Free WiFi in cafes like Pret or Costa
- Libraries or universities
- Mobile data and tethering
Just avoid entering passwords or personal data on public networks without a VPN.
👉 Choose a VPN for safe browsing
Final Thoughts
Setting up internet in your UK home is usually straightforward, but it does take planning. Compare providers, check what is available in your area, and think about how long you will stay before signing a contract.
If you choose the right plan, you can work, stream and stay connected without interruption.