All you need to know about Vodafone broadband
Vodafone, launched in 1985, is one of the UK’s original mobile networks. In recent years it has branched out into home broadband and now offers good value fibre optic internet services alongside the mobile arm.
Vodafone's new-customer broadband deals are fairly simple, so you don’t get to choose from a huge range of options or boost your package with a TV bundle, but it’s also very cheap so may be near the top of your list if cost is a priority. It’s especially good value if you’re a Vodafone Mobile customer. But what does Vodafone offer, and is it any good?
What does Vodafone offer?
On Broadband Genie, almost all the Vodafone broadband deals you'll see are for new customers. So if you're looking to switch you're definitely in the right place (and if you're already a customer, then they're handy to know for haggling). This is what they offer:
Broadband
Vodafone - in common with most other broadband providers - uses the Openreach telephone network to deliver its fixed-line home internet services. However, unlike most ISPs you won’t find ADSL broadband deals from Vodafone as the provider has chosen to offer fibre optic only, with the choice of Vodafone Super 1 and Vodafone Superfast 2 packages.
Phone
A landline is required for Vodafone internet, and line rental is included with all Vodafone broadband deals.
Inclusive calling is not provided with the standard Vodafone broadband packages, instead you simply pay for what you use. This is all you’ll need if you don’t plan on using the phone regularly, otherwise you’ll get the best value out of one of Vodafone’s inclusive calling plans. These can offer free calling to landlines, mobiles and international numbers.
Vodafone broadband coverage and speed
The majority of premises will be able to sign up for Vodafone as most exchanges around the UK are now enabled for fibre optic. However, because Vodafone does not offer ADSL broadband you will not be able to get a Vodafone internet deal if you can’t get fibre.
Vodafone broadband speed
As an Openreach network provider Vodafone offers a similar choice of broadband speeds as many other providers. The Vodafone Superfast 1 package has an average 35Mb download speed, while Superfast 2 delivers an average 63Mb.
This is in line with most other ISPs, but an unusual distinction is that Vodafone also offers an “Ultimate Broadband Guarantee” which promises to deliver the quoted average or give you a 15% discount until it’s fixed.
Vodafone usage limits and traffic management
Vodafone broadband deals are completely unlimited with no caps or fair use policies. There is also no traffic management so you won’t be slowed down, no matter what you’re doing.
Vodafone broadband - in summary
Although fairly barebones - you don’t get a lot of extras with these packages - Vodafone's new-customer deals can be good value for money (especially when you factor in the occasional reward deal). There are no automatic price rises after the initial contract term, and the speed guarantee is a welcome feature for anyone who has ever been disappointed by the performance of a broadband service. Vodafone Mobile customers with pay monthly contracts also benefit from a small discount on home broadband.
To find out more read our full Vodafone Broadband review.