Broadband availability has improved in recent years. If you previously had limited options, it is worth checking again. The services available can differ between neighbouring properties, so always check your exact address.
Check for full fibre
Full fibre connects directly to your property. The Scottish Government’s Reaching 100% (R100) programme and commercial investment are extending availability.
Scottish Government broadband address checker (external link — opens in a new tab) — check information about faster broadband at your property.
Openreach fibre checker (external link — opens in a new tab) — find out whether full fibre is available to order or included in future plans.
Ofcom broadband checker (external link — opens in a new tab) — check predicted coverage, including other networks.
A planned connection is not necessarily ready to order. Confirm availability, installation arrangements and expected speeds with your chosen broadband provider.
Alternatives to a fixed-line connection
4G or 5G home broadband uses a mobile network and a router to provide internet access at home. Performance depends on the signal at your property and demand on the network. Check Ofcom’s mobile coverage information (external link — opens in a new tab), then ask providers about home-broadband availability and trial or cancellation arrangements.
Fixed wireless broadband uses a wireless connection between your property and a provider’s local network. Use Ofcom’s broadband checker (external link — opens in a new tab) to look for fixed wireless providers serving your area. Contact the provider directly to ask whether it can serve your exact address and whether an installation survey is needed.
Satellite broadband may be an option where other connections are unsuitable. It requires suitable equipment and an appropriate view of the sky. Services differ in their speeds, response times, data allowances and costs.
Satellite broadband providers to enquire with
The following are listed alphabetically. Some suppliers resell services using another company’s satellite network.
Brdy (external link — opens in a new tab) — satellite broadband supplier. Its website currently focuses on business services; enquire about residential availability at your address.
Freedomsat (external link — opens in a new tab) — advertises home satellite broadband using Viasat services. Confirm whether it is accepting new residential orders at your address.
Starlink (external link — opens in a new tab) — offers residential satellite broadband. Check address availability, equipment and installation requirements, and current terms.
These links are provided for information, not endorsement. This is not a comprehensive list, and inclusion does not guarantee availability or suitability.
Before choosing a service
Ask about expected download and upload speeds, including at busy times; suitability for video calls, working from home or other activities important to you; data allowances and any restrictions or reductions in speed; equipment, installation and monthly charges; and the full contract cost, minimum term and cancellation arrangements.
Check whether changing broadband will affect any telephone service or other equipment that uses your existing connection.
Slow broadband or poor Wi-Fi?
A weak Wi-Fi signal inside your home does not necessarily mean the broadband connection itself is slow.
Where possible, compare a Wi-Fi speed test with a test using a computer connected directly to the router by an Ethernet cable. Test at different times and contact your existing provider about faults or unexpectedly poor performance.
Read Ofcom’s advice on broadband and Wi-Fi problems (external link — opens in a new tab)
Information checked: 14 November 2026. Availability and terms can change. ELCC does not sell broadband or endorse individual suppliers.