Network average speeds

The speeds advertised in our broadband packages, e.g., 900Mbps, are based on the average download speed. The average download speed varies according to the selected broadband package for your business.

Your speeds

The normally available download and upload speeds (these will also be the maximum speeds for your service) and minimum download and upload speeds for your broadband service will be as stated in your contract.

Testing your speed

A speed test will show your download and upload speed, which can be compared to the speeds set out in your Contract.

For an accurate test, disconnect all devices and, ideally, connect to your router using an ethernet cable before running a test (doing this over WiFi can be affected by interference).

Delivering full fibre broadband to you.

Full fibre all the way to the business (FTTP)

GIF illustrating fibre to the home speed

Full fibre network runs dedicated fibre cables all the way to your business, offering the fastest and most reliable connection.

The speeds you receive are not affected by distance when on a full fibre connection. We have configured the network to support the speeds that we advertise.

Part fibre only to the cabinet (FTTC)

GIF illustrating fibre to the cabinet speed

Part Fibre network runs fibre cables to the external cabinet near your business, and traditional copper cables into your business.

The speeds you receive are affected by how far you are from the street cabinet because your connection is copper to the cabinet.

Copper all the way to the business

GIF illustrating copper to the home speed

Copper networks run fully on the copper cables which were traditionally intended for telephone calls.

The speeds you receive will be affected by the distance your business is from the telephone exchange because your connection is copper to the exchange.

Note: The actual speeds you receive can be influenced by a number of factors, such as: connecting wirelessly, the number of devices, and the website or services you're connecting to.

Illustration of woman sitting on pile of books whilst typing on laptop.

Your minimum guaranteed speed

The normally available download and upload speeds for your broadband service will be as stated in your contract. These will also be the maximum speeds for your service. If you consistently experience either download or upload speeds that are below these minimum speeds and we are unable to remedy this within 30 days of you telling us about it, you will be able to cancel your contract.

  • Broadband speed estimates for copper broadband and fibre to the cabinet fibre connections are based on the length of your telephone line and where your business is located in relation to a telephone exchange.

  • The speed range we provide is an estimate.

  • The actual speed you receive can be influenced by a number of factors such as connecting wirelessly, wiring setup of the building, devices in use, and the website or services you are connecting to.

  • Broadband speeds can be affected during peak periods and during major events such as TV or sporting events. You may experience slower speeds during these times. If at any time you don't receive the minimum connection speed you should, please report it to our Technical Support team.

FAQs

  • Does Lightstream full fibre broadband actually make a big difference?

    Yes, Lightstream has been designed to provide high levels of uploads and downloads, meaning that you can say goodbye to stuttering video calls, slow document uploads to the cloud and the connection dropping out when processing payments. It's much faster than standard ADSL / copper broadband and more reliable.

  • Is Lightstream full fibre broadband available in my area?

    You can check availability by calling our team on 0800 9155 777 - Option 1 or sending an email.

  • What are access line speeds and throughput speeds?

    Access line speed is the speed and quality of your internet and it's dependant on how far you live from the exchange, unless you're a Lightstream customer and your line is installed directly to your premises. Throughput speed will naturally be lower than your access line speed as it’s affected by factors such as the layout of your premises or any interference between your router and your devices.

  • Why isn’t my broadband speed the same as the advertised speed?

    Modern businesses now operate with multiple internet-enabled devices. This shift introduces challenges that affect broadband performance, including router placement, the number of connected devices, Wi-Fi versus wired connections, device age, office layout, and other electrical equipment. Consequently, actual internet speeds may vary from advertised speeds, especially during peak times