Internet Options in London
There is a wide range of Internet providers covering London so prices are competitive. Keep in mind that a 12 or 18 month contract is standard. You can get the Internet via low bandwidth/modem which is a dial-up connection or Broadband ADSL which is by far the most popular choice of broadband, the connection uses your existing phone line. ADSL is available everywhere in London.
Here are a few Broadband providers (ISP):
- BT: http://www.bt.com
BT is the household name when it comes to broadband, phone and TV service in London. Customer service is acceptable to good. If you wish to call BT to set up your new service, log onto the site and enter your postal code to find the right number. - Virgin Media: http://www.virginmedia.com; 0845 650 4545
Virgin Media will either come to your residence or send you all the equipment you need to set up your new broadband service yourself. A free wireless router and modem are often included in their promotional packages. Check the Virgin Media site for info on all packages. - TalkTalk: http://www.talktalk.co.uk; 0800 049 7802
TalkTalk is known as the affordable Internet provider in London but customer service is not one of the company’s strong points. Packages start at around £7 per month for broadband and phone service. Make sure to read the fine print before signing up. - Plusnet: http://www.plus.net/ Plusnet claims to offer the cheapest broadband connection. Recently bought by BT, their introductory offer stars at £8.50 per month for calls and internet.To find a broadband provider suited to your needs. Use http://www.moneysupermarket.com/broadband.
If your home receives Cable or has Cable connection, you might want to investigate Cable broadband. Most of the time the Internet, TV and phone are wrapped into a Cable connection package. Most providers offer these collections. One example is http://store.virginmedia.com/index.html.
Internet Cafes
If you have a laptop, it’s good to know that most cafes around London provide free wireless service with the purchase of food or beverages. If you don’t have a laptop, Internet cafes are around the capital and generally charge around £1 per hour for Internet usage.
Computers & Electrical Plugs
If you’re planning to bring a laptop or computer to London, you need to know about voltages and electric plugs: The UK uses 240-volt electricity, while the United States and Canada use 110 volts and European countries use 220 volts. If your computer is dual voltage, then there is no problem, you can flick the switch otherwise enquire about using a converter or a transformer. You will also need an adapter to plug your computer into an electric socket.
