Despite the fact that many broadband packages are becoming more attractive, offering higher speeds and lower costs, there are additional costs to consider when choosing the right package and provider.
Additional charges, such as connection charges, cancellation fees and landline rental costs can increase the overall cost of a broadband package.
Here we take a look at the different types of charges and explain how to minimise their impact on your broadband bills.
What are the most common broadband charges?
While broadband charges may vary across different connection types and providers, there are some charges which apply to all broadband subscriptions.
Connection charges
This is a general charge that is applied by most providers in order to activate a new connection.
If you are switching broadband packages with the same provider, the connection charge is generally waived.
Installation fee
This is another initial once-off fee that is charged by most broadband providers.
Certain broadband packages require a qualified technician to come to your house and set up your connection for you. Some providers offer a self-installation option to customers.
Excessive usage charges
This is one of the most common and potentially most expensive broadband charges.
Most broadband packages come with a monthly download limit which, if exceeded, will result in your connection being cut off or additional usage fees. Generally, these charges are applied for every additional GB (most common) or MB used, above your limit.
To avoid charges, make sure you know what your monthly limit is and how much you are consuming. For peace of mind, you could choose an ‘unlimited’ broadband package, which is now available from most providers.
Cancellation fee
This charge depends on the type of contract you have with your provider and may be applied if you choose to switch providers or stop your service.
The fee is usually applied if you terminate your service before the end of your contract and the price will correspond with the remaining months on that contract and your provider’s cancellation policy.
What are the common ADSL Broadband Charges?
If you are availing of ADSL broadband, the following additional charges may apply to you.
Landline charges
ADSL requires an existing telephone line to work so an active connection is necessary. A set-up charge may be included if there is no active landline available.
Line rental
The majority of ADSL providers will charge line rental costs. Be wary of line rental costs that are not included in the overall package as they can significantly raise the cost of your bill.
Wireless Broadband Router
In order to set up a Wi-Fi connection in your home you will need to invest in a wireless router that connects to your landline. Some providers supply a free router while others may charge you a once-off fee or a monthly rental charge.
The price of a wireless router can range from €30 to €150. Buying a router is a smart investment if you intend to stay with your provider for a long time.
Router rental could cost anything between €1 and €10 a month. This would be the recommended option for anyone who is on a short-term contract or is unsure of how long they will stay with their provider.
What are the common cable broadband charges?
Cable broadband, such as SIRO, uses fibre optic cables to deliver your broadband to your home, which means there are no landline charges.
However, an installation or a set-up fee will be applied if your provider has to install a cable connection for your home.
What are the common mobile broadband charges?
Dongle
When signing up for mobile broadband, you may be required to buy a dongle, which will allow access to a 4G or 5G network when plugged into your computer’s USB port.
Roaming Charges
Service providers will charge extra costs when you use mobile broadband outside Ireland. However, roaming charges will be capped from June 2016 and abolished from June 2017.
Have a look at our other broadband guides
If you found this guide beneficial, you may be interested in taking a look at some of our other broadband guides:
- Here's a list of simple steps you can take to help improve your broadband speed and make the most of your internet connection.
- If you’re considering switching broadband, have a look at some of the most common questions we get asked about the switching process which will help you switch with ease.
- Take a look at this list of 7 factors to consider when assessing your broadband options.
You can stay up to date with all the latest broadband news and top tips with our blogs and guides.
Compare broadband, phone, and TV deals
Searching for the right broadband, phone and TV package can be time-consuming and confusing, but at bonkers.ie we’ve made the process easy.
Our comprehensive comparison service lets you easily compare broadband speeds, prices and offers from all of Ireland’s main providers in just a few clicks.
To learn more about the switching process, take a look at our step-by-step guide.
We also have a broadband speed test that can test the speed of your current connection and help you decide whether it’s time to upgrade to a faster package.
Get in touch with us
If you’re struggling to wrap your head around various broadband packages and charges or have any questions about switching, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. You can easily contact us through our social media channels. We’re on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
