Virgin Media 50 MB Cable Broadband

Just as the title says, I’ve had Virgin Media 50 Mb broadband installed, along with the TV and phone line as well. I signed up online going via Quidco (cashback site) for XXL Broadband, M+ TV and M phone. 

The broadband is so fast that it really does put the fun back into web surfing. The speed does allow you a better experience in that you can surf, listen to music, watch videos, download files all at the same time without any noticeable slow down.  The only minor negative downside is that when downloading files, you’ll only get the download as fast as the server on which it is being hosted can give it to you. 

To test the speed, I downloaded a linux distribution:

• File: Ubuntu 9.10 (32-bit)
• Downloaded from: http://www.ubuntu.com/GetUbuntu/download
• File Size: 689 MB
• Download Speed: Between 3.5 MB and 4 MB
• Time taken: <3 minutes

Here’s an image of it downloading in Internet Explorer

I then did a speed test using speedtest.net which came out with this:

The 50 MB broadband uses a special modem like the one in the image below. The modem is plugged in via Ethernet to a wireless n router.

If you can afford it and it is available in your area, then I recommend you sign up using the Virgin Media Website.