When choosing the perfect broadband for gamers, the most important factors to consider are speed, reliability, and latency. A high-speed connection is essential for smooth gameplay, but low latency (or ping) is equally crucial to avoid lag. Packages that include unlimited data means that you avoid unexpected cut offs during long gaming sessions.

For gaming broadband, the ideal speed largely depends on the type of games you play. For most online games, a minimum download speed of 25 Mbps is recommended for smooth gameplay. However, if you play high-intensity games with complex graphics or engage in multiplayer games, speeds of 50 Mbps or higher are preferable. Upload speeds are also important, especially for online streaming or participating in competitive multiplayer games where you need to send data quickly. Generally, an upload speed of at least 5-10 Mbps should suffice. Remember, while speed is important, broadband for gaming should also offer low latency to minimise lag and maintain a seamless experience.

Yes, gaming broadband can support multiple devices, but bandwidth management is crucial. If several people in the household are streaming videos, browsing the web, or using other data-heavy applications at the same time, it can impact your gaming experience. To ensure everyone can enjoy the internet without interference, choose a broadband package that offers enough speed to handle multiple users simultaneously. Look for packages with higher speeds if there are more demands from multiple users in the household. This way, even if other people are using the internet, your gaming performance won’t be affected.

Ping or latency refers to the time it takes for data to travel from your device to the game server and back. For the best broadband for gaming, a low ping is essential to avoid lag, especially in fast-paced or competitive games. Ideally, your ping should be under 30 milliseconds (ms) for optimal performance. Anything above 50ms can start to introduce noticeable lag, and anything over 100ms can significantly impact your gaming experience.

To stay safe when gaming online, it’s important to follow a few key safety tips. First, protect your personal information by using strong, unique passwords for your gaming accounts and enabling two-factor authentication. Be cautious when interacting with strangers, and avoid sharing sensitive details like your real name, address, or financial information. Make sure your gaming devices are secure by keeping them updated with the latest software and using strong, secure passwords for your Wi-Fi network. In addition, report any suspicious activity, inappropriate behaviour, or harassment to the game administrators, and ensure your children are aware of safe online practices. By following these steps, you can enjoy a safer, more enjoyable gaming experience. Read more about our online gaming safety tips.

Yes, some online games consume significantly more broadband than others, especially those with high-definition graphics or large multiplayer modes. For example, games like Call of Duty or Battlefield with expansive maps and real-time interactions tend to use more data compared to simpler, text-based games or those with minimal graphics.

Online multiplayer games generally use more bandwidth due to the constant exchange of data between players and the server. If you’re an avid gamer or stream your gameplay, opting for a gaming broadband package with higher speeds and unlimited data is a smart choice to ensure you don’t run into data caps or throttling. Additionally, games with frequent updates and downloadable content (DLC) may require even more bandwidth for updates and patches.