The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) has launched a free online consumer tool called Broadband Checker. This new service on ComReg.ie can help you find what fixed broadband options are available at a location.
To find out what fixed broadband is available, enter either an Eircode or an address into Broadband Checker. If broadband is available or planned, you will see the network operator, type of broadband (for example, fibre) and its speed. You can also find a list of Service Providers that may sell broadband on that network. In addition to Broadband Checker, ComReg also has the Mobile Coverage Map online resource.
ComReg’s 2023 Broadband Connectivity consumer survey revealed that 44 per cent of respondents now work online from home at least one day a week. Connectivity matters for everyone as we are all spending more time online than ever before.
Types of broadband
In Ireland, there are a range of technologies used to provide broadband connections to homes and businesses. The main types of technologies are fibre, part-fibre, cable, copper, fixed wireless, satellite and mobile. The broadband connection you can get depends on your location, the available technology, and the broadband services offered by providers in your area.
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Finding the right plan
Once you know what broadband connection is available to you, it is important to know you are buying the right broadband plan for you. Before you shop around, some factors for you to consider are:
- How often will you be using your broadband on a day-to-day or week-to-week basis?
- What will be your main internet activity?
- How many devices will be connected to the internet at one time?
If you don’t work from home and only use your broadband occasionally, you may not need the same plan as someone who has several people using the internet at the same location, with many connected devices.
Changing broadband provider
If you are looking to switch, the best time to look for a better deal is if you are:
- Coming to the end of your minimum contract term or if you have no minimum term.
- No longer within the minimum term of your contract.
- When your service provider proposes to change your contract terms, you may exit if you wish, without penalty.
When you are ready to find a new broadband plan or to switch service provider, you can use ComReg’s free, impartial Compare tool to compare plans and select the best option for you, based on your needs. The key factors to consider while browsing deals are:
- What data allowance best suits your needs?
- What are you prepared to spend on the plan?
Switching broadband providers may appear daunting, but it’s worth noting that if you lose service while switching, loss of service must not exceed one working day.
Where can I get information about my broadband plan?
If you are currently in a contract, you are entitled to receive best tariff information from your service provider once a year and best tariff advice at the end of your contract. This should supply you with information on your past broadband usage and recommend what plans from your service provider best suit your needs. So, you’re better informed to choose the service that meets your specific needs.
Can ComReg help?
ComReg has independent advice and information on broadband and your rights when switching your broadband service on its website at comreg.ie. ComReg also has a Mobile Coverage Map showing the mobile coverage for all providers in the country, if you are looking for a mobile broadband service.
Contact ComReg’s consumer care team
ComReg is available to assist you, or your authorised representative, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays (excluding public holidays). For assistance, visit comreg.ie for online complaint form and live web chat; email consumerline@comreg.ie; phone (01) 8049668; text COMREG or ASKCOMREG to 51500 to receive a call or text back (standard SMS rates apply); post queries to consumer care can be sent to ComReg, One Dockland Central, Guild Street, Dublin 1, D01 E4X0. Irish Sign Language facility is available on request and you can contact ComReg consumer care via text relay. For more information, please visit ITRS – Irish Text Relay Service.
ComReg is an independent public body with powers under law, regulating the electronic communications sector, which includes phone, broadband and radio, premium rate services and postal services such as An Post