How do I get my guaranteed speeds?

To get the full package speed on your device, it needs to be: – Hardwired to the router via an Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6 or above) – Device capable of supporting those speeds (I.e. a Gigabit Ethernet port and up-to-date hardware) The speed advertised will be sent to your router and will be visible when you run a wired speed test. The speed you actually receive on any device, or over wi-fi, is based on a number of different factors and can vary greatly. Depending on the package you choose, you can experience between 150Mbps – 2000Mbps, which will be visible when you run a wired speed test with an Ethernet cable. Important to remember: – When running a speed test via an ethernet cable, it’s important that the ethernet cable is Cat5e or above (1Gbps capable), as lower ratings may limit the speed provided to the device. Cat5 cables can only transmit a maximum of 100Mbps, while cat6 can transmit up to 10Gbps. – Please ensure the Grain server is selected. – Speeds can vary depending on a number of factors, including but not limited to, how many devices you have connected, whether they are performing background activities, like anti-virus software or a VPN. It is therefore worth carrying out several tests, and taking the average of all of the results. Gigafast speeds: When you sign up to one of our Gigafast packages, we send 1 or 2 Gbps to your router (depending on your package), however as some of the data is used to carry communications up and down the fibre-optic cable, you are realistically likely to see closer to speeds of 900Mbps or 1900Mbps on a speed test (again, depending on your package). Please note: Maximum listed speed is not achievable by a single device over wi-fi, for this speed a wired connection is required.

How do I run a speed test?

The speed advertised will be sent to your router and will be visible when you run a wired speed test. Find out how. Important to remember: – When running a speed test via an Ethernet cable, it’s important that the Ethernet cable is a cat6 or above, as lower ratings may limit the speed provided to the device. Cat5 cables can only transmit a maximum of 100Mb, while cat6 can transmit up to 10Gb. – Please ensure the Grain server is selected. – Speeds can vary depending on a number of factors, including but not limited to, how many devices you have connected, whether they are performing background activities, like anti-virus software or a VPN. It is therefore worth carrying out several tests, and taking the average of all of the results. Gigafast speeds: When you sign up to our Gigafast package, we send 1Gbps to your router, however as some of the data is used to carry communications up and down the fibre-optic cable, you are realistically likely to see closer to speeds of 900Mb on a speed test. Please note: 900Mb speed is not achievable by a single device over Wi-Fi, for this speed a wired connection is required.

How does Wi-Fi reach every room?

Your router pushes out radio waves, transmitting millions of bits of data per second, to your devices – like smart phones, computers or tablets. It’s through these airwaves and technology that you are able to stream your favourite shows, battle your opponents online and work from home. But, there are some interfering elements that could make your connection slow and ruin your downtime, keep reading below to see what they are.

How do I know I’m on the right Wi-Fi frequency?

One travels further, and the other faster. Make sure your devices are on the right frequency for their needs. Our service transmits both 2.4GHz (further at lower speeds) and 5GHz (closer range but faster speeds). Each device might have a preferred frequency, and you can check on the settings. We recommend putting your laptops, tablets and mobiles on 5GHz.

How do I get the most out of my broadband speed?

The ultimate way to make the most of your speed is by using a CAT5e (or above) Ethernet cable to connect devices directly to the router or Wi-Fi extender. Many choose to do this with TVs or desktop computers, and instead connect smaller devices over Wi-Fi – but bear in mind the speed may vary when connecting over Wi-Fi!

What household items cause Wi-Fi interference?

There’s a number of unexpected things that could be slowing down your Wi-Fi signal, as they have the ability to absorb or reflect wireless signals. Mirrors. They don’t just reflect light. Mirrors with even a thin metal backing can reflect Wi-Fi signals, causing them to bounce around and potentially create dead zones or electromagnetic interference. Bluetooth devices. Bluetooth devices, such as speakers, keyboards, and headphones, can operate on similar frequencies as Wi-Fi and might cause interference if they’re in close proximity. Our recommendation? If you’re not using it, switch it off! Fluorescent lights. Believe it or not, certain types of fluorescent lights can emit electromagnetic interference that can impact your connection, especially in the 2.4 GHz range. If possible, give alternative lights a go – like LED. Water. It’s bad news for your family goldfish. Water can absorb and weaken Wi-Fi signals. Large containers of water like fish tanks, or even a crowded room of people, can reduce performance. Microwaves. They’re a recipe for disaster! That’s right, microwaves also operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range and can cause temporary interference when in use. Corded electronics. Some corded electronics, especially those with motors or transformers, can generate electromagnetic interference that might impact wi-fi performance. Walls and floors. As you would have guessed, thick walls made of concrete or brick, as well as floors with metal reinforcement, can significantly weaken Wi-Fi signals as they absorb or reflect the wireless signals.

My Wi-Fi signal is poor, how can I fix this?

A number of factors can affect your Wi-Fi coverage, including: – The materials your home is built from – Interference from other networks and devices – Electronics in your home How to improve your Wi-Fi coverage: – When the router is installed, be sure to keep the area between your router and the high internet/device-usage areas clear from large obstacles and objects, including fish tanks, refrigerators and mirrors. – Buy or rent a Wi-Fi extender to help extend the coverage in your home. – Ask for an SSID split, which creates two different connections within your home: a 2.4GHz connection and a 5GHz connection. 5Ghz will show faster speeds but with a lower range. We recommend connecting laptops, tablets, and mobiles to this one. 2.4GHz will show slightly lower speeds but a vaster range for devices to connect to. We recommend connecting any other devices in your home to this for the best service. If you are still experiencing poor coverage after the above steps, please get in touch with Customer Support via email, phone call or our live-chat service and they can investigate your connectivity and advise you on the best options to improve your coverage.

Why does my Wi-Fi feel slower in some rooms?

Walls, floors, and large objects can block signals. Have you considered using a Wi-Fi extender for better coverage? Find out more.

Broadband speeds explained

It's not just fast. It's Full Fibre.

Welcome to your guide to broadband speeds

Understanding broadband speeds can help you get the most out of your internet connection. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, working from home, or juggling multiple devices, here’s everything you need to know about getting the most from your Full Fibre broadband.

Bits & bytes

First things first. You know how everyone talks about “megabits per second” (Mbps or Mb)? Well, here’s the kicker: a bit and a byte are not the same thing. They’re like cousins — related but definitely not interchangeable.

Grain's Purple background Puzzle piece with bits

Bits: Tiny but mighty

The tiniest piece of digital info. A one or a zero. Think of it like a single puzzle piece.

Grain's Purple background Puzzle pieces with bits

Bytes: Bits in bulk

A group of 8 bits together, like a whole puzzle.

Let's sum it up

When you’re downloading a file or watching a movie, file sizes are measured in bytes. Internet speeds are measured in bits. So, when your ISP says you’re getting 100Mbps (or Mb), that’s megabits per second. Divide by 8, and you’re actually downloading at 12.5 megabytes per second. Confusing? A little. Important? Definitely!

Upload vs. Download speeds

Upload speeds are typically slower than downloads – but that doesn’t mean they don’t matter. A faster upload speed means your side of the conversation doesn’t lag behind. On the other hand, the faster your download speed, the smoother everything loads – no buffering!

Upload speeds

Uploads are all about sending data out from your device.

Think video calling, sending big email attachments, uploading photos to social media, backing up files to the cloud - or shouting into the digital void, if you’re into livestreaming.

Grain customer using the PC with a white up arrow

Download speeds

Downloads are what most of us use the internet for, even if we don’t realise it. Streaming Netflix? Downloading. Browsing the news? Downloading. Scrolling through cat videos on TikTok at 2am? Still downloading.

The faster your download speed, the smoother everything loads - no buffering.

Grain customers using the TV with a white down arrow

Bandwidth vs Latency

aka speed vs responsiveness

Bandwidth

Bandwidth is the max amount of data your connection can handle. It’s like the width of a highway — the wider it is, the more cars (data) can move at once.

Latency

Latency is the time it takes for data to travel. Think of it as your highway’s speed limit. Low latency = quick responses, crucial for gaming or video calls.

How to run a speed test

Your broadband speed determines how fast you can download and upload data. If your internet feels slow, it could be due to a variety of factors. Testing your speed can help you diagnose the issue and optimise your connection.

Choose the right device

Start with a modern device that supports high speeds. Older laptops, phones, or TVs may have speed caps, so double-check your device's specifications if results seem low.

Get connected

For the most reliable results, use a CAT6 Ethernet Cable to connect your device directly into the router, close any unnecessary apps or programs running on the device, and disable any VPNs (especially on work devices), as they can interfere with speed test results.

Disconnect other devices

To avoid other devices using bandwidth during the test, temporarily disconnect all other devices from the network and ensure no one else is online at the time.

Run the test multiple times

Run your speed test at various times of the day to get an accurate understanding of your connection's performance during peak and off-peak hours.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get my guaranteed speeds?

To get the full package speed on your device, it needs to be:

– Hardwired to the router via an Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6 or above)

– Device capable of supporting those speeds (I.e. a Gigabit Ethernet port and up-to-date hardware)

The speed advertised will be sent to your router and will be visible when you run a wired speed test. The speed you actually receive on any device, or over wi-fi, is based on a number of different factors and can vary greatly.

Depending on the package you choose, you can experience between 150Mbps – 2000Mbps, which will be visible when you run a wired speed test with an Ethernet cable.

Important to remember:

– When running a speed test via an ethernet cable, it’s important that the ethernet cable is Cat5e or above (1Gbps capable), as lower ratings may limit the speed provided to the device. Cat5 cables can only transmit a maximum of 100Mbps, while cat6 can transmit up to 10Gbps.
– Please ensure the Grain server is selected.
– Speeds can vary depending on a number of factors, including but not limited to, how many devices you have connected, whether they are performing background activities, like anti-virus software or a VPN. It is therefore worth carrying out several tests, and taking the average of all of the results.

Gigafast speeds:

When you sign up to one of our Gigafast packages, we send 1 or 2 Gbps to your router (depending on your package), however as some of the data is used to carry communications up and down the fibre-optic cable, you are realistically likely to see closer to speeds of 900Mbps or 1900Mbps on a speed test (again, depending on your package).

Please note: Maximum listed speed is not achievable by a single device over wi-fi, for this speed a wired connection is required.
How do I run a speed test?

The speed advertised will be sent to your router and will be visible when you run a wired speed test. Find out how.

Important to remember:

– When running a speed test via an Ethernet cable, it’s important that the Ethernet cable is a cat6 or above, as lower ratings may limit the speed provided to the device. Cat5 cables can only transmit a maximum of 100Mb, while cat6 can transmit up to 10Gb.
– Please ensure the Grain server is selected.
– Speeds can vary depending on a number of factors, including but not limited to, how many devices you have connected, whether they are performing background activities, like anti-virus software or a VPN. It is therefore worth carrying out several tests, and taking the average of all of the results.

Gigafast speeds:

When you sign up to our Gigafast package, we send 1Gbps to your router, however as some of the data is used to carry communications up and down the fibre-optic cable, you are realistically likely to see closer to speeds of 900Mb on a speed test.

Please note: 900Mb speed is not achievable by a single device over Wi-Fi, for this speed a wired connection is required.
How does Wi-Fi reach every room?

Your router pushes out radio waves, transmitting millions of bits of data per second, to your devices – like smart phones, computers or tablets.

It’s through these airwaves and technology that you are able to stream your favourite shows, battle your opponents online and work from home. But, there are some interfering elements that could make your connection slow and ruin your downtime, keep reading below to see what they are.
How do I know I’m on the right Wi-Fi frequency?

One travels further, and the other faster. Make sure your devices are on the right frequency for their needs. Our service transmits both 2.4GHz (further at lower speeds) and 5GHz (closer range but faster speeds).

Each device might have a preferred frequency, and you can check on the settings. We recommend putting your laptops, tablets and mobiles on 5GHz.
How do I get the most out of my broadband speed?

The ultimate way to make the most of your speed is by using a CAT5e (or above) Ethernet cable to connect devices directly to the router or Wi-Fi extender. Many choose to do this with TVs or desktop computers, and instead connect smaller devices over Wi-Fi – but bear in mind the speed may vary when connecting over Wi-Fi!
What household items cause Wi-Fi interference?
There’s a number of unexpected things that could be slowing down your Wi-Fi signal, as they have the ability to absorb or reflect wireless signals.
- Mirrors. They don’t just reflect light. Mirrors with even a thin metal backing can reflect Wi-Fi signals, causing them to bounce around and potentially create dead zones or electromagnetic interference.
- Bluetooth devices. Bluetooth devices, such as speakers, keyboards, and headphones, can operate on similar frequencies as Wi-Fi and might cause interference if they’re in close proximity. Our recommendation? If you’re not using it, switch it off!
- Fluorescent lights. Believe it or not, certain types of fluorescent lights can emit electromagnetic interference that can impact your connection, especially in the 2.4 GHz range. If possible, give alternative lights a go – like LED.
- Water. It’s bad news for your family goldfish. Water can absorb and weaken Wi-Fi signals. Large containers of water like fish tanks, or even a crowded room of people, can reduce performance.
- Microwaves. They’re a recipe for disaster! That’s right, microwaves also operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range and can cause temporary interference when in use.
- Corded electronics. Some corded electronics, especially those with motors or transformers, can generate electromagnetic interference that might impact wi-fi performance.
- Walls and floors. As you would have guessed, thick walls made of concrete or brick, as well as floors with metal reinforcement, can significantly weaken Wi-Fi signals as they absorb or reflect the wireless signals.
My Wi-Fi signal is poor, how can I fix this?

A number of factors can affect your Wi-Fi coverage, including:

– The materials your home is built from
– Interference from other networks and devices
– Electronics in your home

How to improve your Wi-Fi coverage:

– When the router is installed, be sure to keep the area between your router and the high internet/device-usage areas clear from large obstacles and objects, including fish tanks, refrigerators and mirrors.

– Buy or rent a Wi-Fi extender to help extend the coverage in your home.

– Ask for an SSID split, which creates two different connections within your home: a 2.4GHz connection and a 5GHz connection. 5Ghz will show faster speeds but with a lower range. We recommend connecting laptops, tablets, and mobiles to this one. 2.4GHz will show slightly lower speeds but a vaster range for devices to connect to. We recommend connecting any other devices in your home to this for the best service.

If you are still experiencing poor coverage after the above steps, please get in touch with Customer Support via email, phone call or our live-chat service and they can investigate your connectivity and advise you on the best options to improve your coverage.
Why does my Wi-Fi feel slower in some rooms?

Walls, floors, and large objects can block signals. Have you considered using a Wi-Fi extender for better coverage? Find out more.