Broadband
A number of broadband services are available across the Island.
Digital Broadband Services
Due to the copper network switch-off, traditional copper-based broadband services are being replaced.
Instead of using the copper network, broadband services will be available over Fibre, Fixed Wireless, and Satellite networks.
In practical terms, most people won’t notice the difference between the current and new broadband services when accessing the internet. Although, you may find it faster.
Fibre Broadband
Similar to copper-based broadband, Fibre Broadband is an internet service that works over cables in the Fibre network. Only, unlike traditional copper-based services, you are not required to pay for landline telephone service (in addition to a broadband subscription) in order to access the internet.
Not everyone will be able to have a Fibre Broadband service at the moment. Some consumers may need extra installation work to have their new service connected (also known as an ‘intervention’ or ‘exception’), and may have to wait for this work to be carried out before the service can be connected. The network is also still being built in some parts of the Island.
To find out if Fibre Broadband is available to you, or if you will require any intervention to have Fibre installed, please type your postcode into our Postcode Checker. Details of current service providers can be found in our table below.
Wireless Broadband
Wireless Broadband is an internet service that works over the Fixed Wireless Access network. Unlike fibre broadband, it does not require the installation of fibre cables. It works by transmitting signals from a receiver at your property to a Fixed Wireless Access mast.
It is an ideal lower-cost solution if you don’t want to have fibre cables installed and don’t want to make traditional telephone calls. However, it requires a line of sight from your property to a Fixed Wireless Access mast and is not available across the whole Island.
Details of current service providers can be found in our table below.
Satellite Broadband
Satellite Broadband is an internet service that works over the satellite network and does not require the installation of fibre cables.
It is an ideal solution if you don’t want to have fibre cables installed and don’t want to make traditional telephone calls. There can be a signal delay between your property and the satellite, so may not be ideal for those who need a real-time connection for online gaming or remote monitoring.
Details of current service providers can be found in our table below.
Service Providers
There are currently a number of broadband service providers for residents and businesses of the Isle of Man. Further details of service providers and the types of broadband services they offer are provided in the table below.
Please contact your chosen Service Provider to discuss your needs and find out more about the services and options available to you.
 Fibre Broadband |  Wireless Broadband |  Satellite | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  | |
 | | | |
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Requirements for a digital broadband service
Whichever type of digital broadband service you choose, in order to transfer from the copper network you will need:
If you are currently using a copper-based broadband service, your service provider will need to transfer your current service to another network. This transfer may include a one-off connection fee. Some service providers currently waive this fee, so it is worth asking service providers about any available offers.
There may also be an additional cost to install Fibre if extra work is required to get a Fibre cable safely to your property. The cost for this work can vary, so if required it is worth obtaining 2 or 3 quotes.
Fixed Wireless and Satellite broadband require the installation of receiving equipment, such as a satellite dish, but can be a more cost effective option where extra work is required to install fibre.
Your chosen service provider will be able to confirm more details about what the installation work will involve and how much it will cost.
If you are currently using a router that is only intended for copper-based services, you will likely need a new router that is compatible with your chosen service. If you do not have a compatible router, these can be provided by your chosen service provider when subscribing to their services.
Some service providers may offer a free router, so it is worth asking service providers about any available offers before subscribing to a new service. Some service providers will also let you purchase your own router from elsewhere.
Similar to copper-based broadband services, there are different types of speeds available at different prices for each type of digital broadband service. The package you choose will depend on what you want to use your internet connection for. Your chosen service provider will be able to advise which option would best meet your needs.
Further information on choosing the right broadband package to meet your needs is also available on the CURA’s Website.
Some service providers may offer promotional rates for some broadband packages, so it is worth asking service providers about any available offers.
A Wi-Fi extender boosts the signal from your broadband router to the devices used to access the internet. They are often used to improve the internet connection in larger buildings, and older properties with thick walls, where the router’s signal can be weakened.
Some service providers include Wi-Fi extenders as part of their broadband packages, while others allow you to purchase them separately. It is worth considering whether this is something you will need before choosing which service to subscribe to.
