Whether you’re moving offices or just switching to a new provider, you probably have a few questions about broadband installation and how it will affect you and your business.
Broadband installation methods vary depending on the provider and the type of internet connection. In some cases, all you need to do is plug in the router that gets sent to you. In others, you will have to wait weeks while a new phone line is being laid.
Whatever your reason for wanting to know how broadband is installed, we aim to answer everything in this guide.
How is broadband installed?
The broadband installation process has a few different pathways. Which one you end up on depends on factors like whether you’re moving home, moving into a new build or simply switching providers.
In the UK, most people get their broadband via the Openreach network. This is owned by BT but most of the big internet service providers (ISPs), such as Sky and TalkTalk, use the Openreach network.
Virgin is a bit different – they use their own cable infrastructure to deliver broadband to households around the UK. This is the same network of cables that Virgin TV is delivered via.
Broadband without a phone line or that doesn’t use any cables will require a slightly different set-up to more traditional methods.
How do Openreach providers install broadband?
Providers using the Openreach network might have slight variations in how they install broadband, but the basic principle is the same.
After you have signed a contract with your new provider, they will send you a new router. On your activation date, all you have to do is plug in the router and turn it on.
Most homes in the UK have a BT phone line installed. This might have been disconnected, in which case it can usually be reconnected remotely before the router is set up. If your home doesn’t have a BT phone line, then an engineer will need to come out to install one.
How is Virgin Media broadband installed?
If you or someone who lived in your home before you have been a Virgin Media customer, then your house will already be connected to the necessary cables. This makes broadband installation incredibly easy – you can do it on your own with the help of Virgin’s set-up guide.
However, properties that have not previously been connected to Virgin cables will need an engineer to do so. This involves running a cable from the pavement to your house and usually requires some minor drilling work.
How is fibre optic broadband installed?
To upgrade to a full fibre optic connection, an engineer will once again need to visit your house. They will drill a small hole near your front door and thread through it a cable leading from the street cabinet.
Once this work is complete, they will finish the set-up and check that the broadband installation has been successful.
How is mobile broadband installed?
Mobile broadband is one of the easiest to install. After your provider has sent your router and SIM card, you just need to plug it in, insert the SIM and turn it on. For this reason, 4G broadband is popular with people needing a quick internet solution.
How is fixed wireless broadband installed?
Fixed wireless broadband normally requires a small satellite dish to be placed on one of the exterior walls of the property requiring internet access. An engineer will complete this work – once it’s done, you will just need to turn on the router.
Getting fixed wireless broadband installed is a great option for those struggling with slow WiFi in rural areas.
How is Low Earth Orbit broadband installed?
Low Earth Orbit broadband is a type of internet service provided through a constellation of satellites in low earth orbit. The installation process for LEO broadband typically involves a network of satellites launched into low earth orbit. These satellites are placed at altitudes ranging from about 180 to 2,000 kilometers above the Earth’s surface.
Ground stations are established to communicate with the LEO satellites. These ground stations are equipped with antennas and other necessary equipment to transmit and receive signals to and from the satellites. Customers who want to access LEO broadband will need to install user terminals (also known as satellite dishes) at their locations.
LEO is a great option for events and construction sites who requite portable and robust internet and communications.
Can I install broadband myself?
Yes, you can install broadband yourself – so long as you’re switching from one Openreach provider to another. This is because no engineering work is needed, so it’s just a case of setting up the router yourself (with over-the-phone support available).
But if you’re upgrading from ADSL to fibre optic broadband, work might need to be done at the street cabinet. It’s possible for an engineer to do this without you there, and you can set up the router yourself afterwards.
When installing an alternative form of broadband, like satellite or line of sight, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to set it up yourself.
How long does it take to install broadband?
If engineering work is required during your broadband installation, the process will likely go like this:
- You choose your provider and agree to the contract
- They tell you an installation date (usually around 2-3 weeks away)
- On installation day, the engineer might require access to your house to carry out the work. They will normally be at your property for around 30 minutes – 2 hours.
- It might take a few hours for everything to kick into gear but by the end of the day, you should have internet access.
When there’s no engineering work required, you’ll have to wait around a week for a new router to be sent to you. You’ll be given an activation around the same time, at which point you can turn your router on and be ready to go.
Why is my broadband installation delayed?
There are a few reasons why your business broadband installation might take longer than expected. If you miss the appointment, you might have to wait even longer to rebook and could potentially still be charged for the engineer’s time.
Issues with the phone line that mean it needs replacing or repairing can delay installation by a few weeks.
Emergency Broadband is sometimes required
When running a business you can’t afford for your comms to be down and companies are often let down my the large providers and have to wait days, weeks or longer for their services to be back up and running.
This is where services like our emergency broadband are essential and allow business to continue un interrupted.
That concludes all the options for broadband installation. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable team at Click to find the best solution for your business.
