Alternatives to NTL (Broadband, phone and TV)

greyripper · 15-04-2006, 09:17

I've had it with NTL. I am suffering intermittent connection problems, their 'technical' -( they can read a script) are hopeless, each time I report it they treat it like a new problem. This comes on the top of billing problems, phone cut-off because I hadn't paid (I pay by direct debit! and had my bank statement as evidence) plus initial install foul-up.

I like 10M BB, but can live with lower speeds to be honest. It is rare that we actually get anything like 10MB so going back to 2 is an option.

I think the first step is to get BT to re-connnect the phone line and get my number off NTL. I am thinking of Sky for the TV, no problem there and the deal looks better (better package plans) than NTL. Then I need an ISP. The easy option is BT, but I know there are alternatives through the BT line.
Location is Wokingham.

Any thoughts, comments?

Florence · 15-04-2006, 12:03

To start thinking about ADSL you need to know what you will be using in the month.

Some ISPs resell Netservices usually have a BBUK in the email address somewhere these could be difficult to migrate from if you have problems.

BT tends to have smaller caps than other ISPs so if you are sure you will not use a lot then they are an option. There are a growing number of ISPs selling ADSL with two caps one a peak time cap of around minimum (depending on package ordered) 30 gig with around 300gig off-peak these are on Entanets backbone.
Then there are the LLU if your exchanges is unbundled that is main problem there is they have no method of migrating out so its a cease and re-provide.

Watch out for the free activation and modem offers as these tend to have shocks hidden in the T&C like one ISP can charge you for the activation and modem if you leave within 5 yrs yet they sell it as a 12 month contract so it pays to perhaps buy your own modem and pay activation then go on monthly contracts or 3 month contracts.

If you need any more information about ADSL then I wil gather more information for you.

greyripper · 15-04-2006, 12:20

Thanks for the feedback, I think I will go with BT initially, the CAP looks OK for home use, and I will be having another line put in for work (changed employer and the new one wants control over BB bills).

Sky looks fine for TV, just the same number of channels NOT to watch! (but the important ones like Sky, SciFi and Wings on my chosen packages.

Florence · 15-04-2006, 12:45

We have had sky for years around 10yrs and only had to call cs once in all that time. Very happy wioth the service and no problems with billing.