Cable
Cable broadband. Typically the Virgin Media–style network in the UK.
Broadband glossary
This hub explains the UK broadband terms you’ll see on adverts, comparison sites, and your bill—what they mean, why they matter, and where to read deeper without jargon overload.
FTTP
Fibre to the premises. Fibre all the way to your home or building.
FTTC
Fibre to the cabinet. Fibre to the street cabinet, then copper to you.
Gigabit-capable
Network that can deliver 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) or more.
Jitter
Variation in delay over time. Affects real-time applications like calls and gaming.
Latency
Delay in data reaching its destination and coming back. Measured in milliseconds (ms).
One Touch Switch
UK process for switching broadband by dealing only with your new provider.
Packet loss
When data packets don’t arrive. Can cause stutter, dropouts, or retransmissions.
Social tariff
Cheaper broadband (and sometimes mobile) for people on certain benefits.
Symmetric speed
Upload speed similar to download. Common on full fibre.
For step-by-step decisions, start with our guides (for example full fibre vs FTTC vs cable or how One Touch Switch works). Back to home