Alternative network providers explained: Why Altnets matter

What is an altnet or alternative network?

It refers to a broadband provider that builds and runs its own Full Fibre network, rather than renting space on the Openreach network that most of the UK's big-name providers use.

Why Altnets matter

Altnets like YouFibre are modernising the UK's broadband infrastructure, bringing people connections that are fast and futureproof. It also means you have options: You don’t have to just settle for Openreach or Virgin; having an Altnet in your area means you aren’t stuck with a limited selection of broadband providers, and who doesn’t love having options?

We might be a smaller name, but our broadband holds its own; we’re rated Excellent currently on Trustpilot with over 98,000 reviews. Every home we connect gets Full Fibre, straight to the door. It's a serious undertaking. Building a Full Fibre network from scratch means installing new fibre optic cables, street by street, in each town we’re connecting.

Where can you find out more about UK Altnets?

We're now featured on The Altnets, an independent site that showcases full fibre broadband providers like us across the UK. Altnets like YouFibre have helped to transform broadband in the UK, bringing competitive prices and speeds, but don’t just take our word for it; The Altnets provides an easily digestible breakdown on alternative network providers in the UK.

You can read their independent review on YouFibre here

Why sites like The Altnets matter

Because there are now dozens of altnets operating across the UK, often covering smaller towns and cities and rural areas, it's easy to miss that you've even got one on your doorstep. The big names have the marketing budgets to be everywhere, so it's only natural for people to go with a brand they already know, but it doesn’t mean that you’re getting the best deal or service.

That's the gap The Altnets was built to fill: an independent guide that explains what Full Fibre actually means and helps people check which independent providers are available at their address. It's a handy resource if you've ever wondered whether there's a faster, fairer broadband option near you that simply isn't a household name yet.

Ready to check if we’re on your street? Check your postcode for Full Fibre broadband now