In addition to providing the broadband connection BT also give you free UK calls (see below) and 350 WI-FI minutes, which is useful if you travel with your laptop and need to connect to the Internet via public WI-FI Hotspots.

The Options

The main differences between the three options besides the price are

• Monthly Usage- It is very difficult to determining the monthly usage unless you are an existing Broadband user and have existing usage stats. So I tend to prefer to start with the minimum and upgrade as necessary.In fairness to BT they are flexible with the usage and will only contact you if you persistently go above your agreed limit.
• Equipment Included- The basic option includes a fixed router which requires an Ethernet connection. Other options include a wireless router/hub. It is possible to purchase the equipment separately for additional costs, but it is a one off cost as opposed to a monthly recurring cost. The way the prices are structured if you need the equipment then you are probably better off going for the package that includes them for free rather than buying them separately.

Free Calls

This refers to calls made over the broadband connection not over your normal BT landline. It also refers to calls made between PC and another PC (using BT talk). Calls between PC and normal phones may carry a charge.

To make calls over the broadband connection you will need a VOIP phone.

BT offer three options

• Softphone- This is simply free software that you install on your computer. To make phone calls you will need to equip your computer with headphones and speakers and an optional web cam.
• BT broadband Talk and Broadband Video - These are wireless phones that mean you can make calls over the broadband connection without your PC ( can be switched off) as it relies on the BT wireless Hub (included free with Total broadband options 2 and 3).

12 or 18 Month Contract

You have an option of committing yourself to a 12 or 18 month contract. If you decide on the 18 month option then the reduced cost period is increased.

For example :

Option3 costs £22.99 per month for 3 months after which it reverts to £24.99 with the 12 month contract.

For the 18 month contract it costs £18.99 per month for 6 months after which it reverts to £24.99

BT Vision

This is on demand TV and freeview. You need to be a BT total croadband user to order but currently (dec 2007) they are offering it for just £30 setup. I’ve just received it myself and will be trying out for Xmas.

Personal Rating

I have been a BT broadband user (option 2) for over 2 years now and have no complaints with the service and consider it offers good value for money. It is the one I recommend to family and friends.

Links:

• BT Total Broadband
  

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