Research by Global Wireless Solutions (GWS) reveals that nearly one-third of people in the UK currently experience internet speeds that are classified as inadequate.
Internet access is increasingly regarded as a basic necessity. When connectivity is insufficient, individuals, communities, and even entire regions can be disadvantaged, widening the so-called “digital divide.”
For a high-income nation, the UK faces a striking digital divide. While many urban areas enjoy reliable service, numerous rural communities remain underserved and struggle to access dependable broadband.
GWS’s research shows that around three in ten UK consumers receive download speeds under 2 Mbps and upload speeds under 1 Mbps. At these levels, even fundamental online activities—such as video calls, remote work, telehealth, and school lessons—become difficult or impossible.
Paul Carter, CEO of Global Wireless Solutions, commented:
“That a third of homes in the UK lack sufficient speeds for routine tasks is disappointing. It’s a stark reminder of how essential reliable internet has become, especially at a time when many people are spending more time at home and relying on their networks more than ever.”
“Whether we like it or not, everyday life has shifted and a stable internet connection is vital for working and living. Without reasonable throughput, people risk feeling disconnected, frustrated, and anxious.”
Fewer than two-thirds of properties meet Ofcom’s definition of “decent” broadband, which requires at least 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload. That leaves a significant portion of households below the standard seen as necessary for modern online life.
The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the effects of poor connectivity. More than half of UK consumers reported feeling isolated during lockdown because their internet performance was unreliable.
Remote working has also been affected: half of workers felt their abilities were judged negatively when their home internet performed poorly. That concern is mutual—over a third admitted they had judged others for connection issues during remote meetings.
“It’s unsurprising that people with inadequate internet switch broadband providers when they can, but we’re also seeing many move to mobile services. That pattern suggests indoor mobile coverage has improved compared with previous years and will likely strengthen as 5G rolls out nationwide.”
“We’ve been testing 5G performance in UK cities and are already seeing encouraging speeds in urban areas. For many households, 5G could be a viable way to address connectivity shortfalls across the country. That promise is likely why many consumers view it as a key part of closing the digital divide.”
On the steps of Downing Street after his election, Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to address the UK’s connectivity problems as part of a broader “levelling up” agenda. Improved digital infrastructure remains a central element of the government’s plan to reduce regional disparities.
The pandemic disrupted many policy priorities, but the government has emphasized using this moment to confront long-standing challenges, including gaps in housing, healthcare, skills, productivity, and digital connectivity.
As the Prime Minister put it earlier in the year, the government is committed “not just to defeating coronavirus but to using this crisis finally to tackle this country’s great unresolved challenges of the last three decades”—including the unequal access to fast, reliable internet that affects opportunity and productivity across the UK.
High-profile incidents have highlighted the issue. After Mr Johnson experienced connection problems during a live broadcast from his home to parliament and the public, the need to resolve national connectivity shortcomings likely moved higher up the political agenda.
(Photo by Marian Beck on Unsplash)
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