Your complete guide to broadband in Ireland
Whether you want super fast internet speeds, cheaper prices or a terrific new TV bundle - our complete guide to broadband has everything you need, including the best broadband deals from Ireland’s top providers.
What’s in this guide?
Part 1
Broadband in Ireland
What is a broadband network?
A broadband network is the infrastructure - copper, fibre-optic, or coaxial cables - that supports your broadband connection. Access to each network can depend on where you live.
Open eir, SIRO or Virgin Media’s network are some of Ireland’s main broadband networks.
Main broadband networks in Ireland
Ireland’s broadband market is served by several key networks, each using different technologies to deliver internet to homes and businesses.
SIRO
A joint venture between ESB and Vodafone, SIRO uses Ireland’s electricity network to deliver 100% fibre-to-the-home broadband.
Open Eir
Open Eir runs Ireland’s largest wholesale broadband network, combining part-fibre and full-fibre connections.
NBI
NBI is delivering the Government’s National Broadband Plan, bringing full-fibre to rural homes in the Intervention Area.
Virgin Media
Virgin Media operates its own fibre and cable network, and now supports download speeds up to 5 Gbps.
Broadband providers in Ireland
Broadband providers use the networks to sell services; usually internet and TV packages, as well as mobile deals and home phone lines. Some of the main residential providers are:
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The National Broadband Plan
The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to deliver 46,000 kilometres of fibre to over half a million homes - giving high-speed broadband to 96% of Ireland.
National Broadband Ireland (NBI) is rolling out high-speed, full fibre broadband to homes and businesses in rural Ireland, guaranteeing minimum speeds of 500Mb to all in the ‘Intervention Area’.
The project means those living in remote areas will get access to reliable, superfast broadband from a choice of providers.
You can search the NBI eircode checker to see if your area is included in the national rollout.
Average internet speed in Ireland
According to ComReg, in mid 2025, 21% of fixed-broadband subscriptions were for 1 Gbps or faster.
The median fixed-download speed was around 143 Mbps, ranking Ireland among the top 40 countries for internet speed.
Although some rural areas are still waiting for superfast broadband, full fibre networks are constantly being rolled out.
Irish providers like Vodafone and Digweb offer speeds of up to 2Gbps in some areas, with fibre-optic cables running directly into homes. Virgin Media and eir now offer speeds of up to 5Gbps via their own networks.
How to find the best internet in your area
Not everyone has the same choice when it comes to broadband networks or providers.
The Government has created a High Speed Broadband Map that allows you to see if commercial or state broadband providers will be providing high-speed broadband to your area.
Check out the fibre rollout map from eir, the SIRO rollout map, or our broadband checker for the best broadband deals in your area.
Part 2
Types of broadband connection
Ireland offers several types of broadband, each using different technologies to deliver your internet connection.
The type of broadband available to you depends on where you live and which networks - such as SIRO, Open Eir, or Virgin Media - are available in your area.
Access to certain broadband connections, like full fibre, depend on where you live and what networks are in your area.
For a full breakdown of every connection type, visit our broadband connection types guide.
Main connection types at a glance
Here’s a quick look at the main connection types, how they work, and what they’re best suited for.
| Type of broadband | Connection / technology | Typical speeds (up to) | Example providers | Best for / key details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Fibre (FTTH) | Fibre-optic cable direct to your home | 500 Mb – 5 Gb | Digiweb, eir, Sky, Virgin Media, Vodafone, Pure Telecom | Fastest and most reliable connection; ideal for 4K streaming, gaming and remote work. | |
| Part Fibre (FTTC) | Fibre to the street cabinet + copper to your home | 100 Mb –1 Gb | eir, Sky, Virgin Media, Vodafone | Widely available; good for everyday use and HD streaming. | |
| Cable broadband | Coaxial cable via Virgin Media network | 5 Gb | Virgin Media | Strong urban coverage; great for families and TV bundles. | |
| Fixed Wireless | Radio signal from local mast | 100 Mb | Echo Broadband, Wireless Connect, Regional Broadband | Good for rural or hard-to-reach areas; no landline required. | |
| Mobile Broadband (4G / 5G) | Mobile-network connection via hub or SIM | 25 Mb (4G) – 1 Gb (5G) | eir, Three, Vodafone | Portable or temporary use; ideal for renters or remote work. | |
| Satellite Broadband | Data sent via satellite dish | 50 – 200 Mb | Rural WiFi, Starlink | Option for remote locations; higher latency, may have data caps. |
*Speeds listed are possible maximum speeds. Speeds offered and experienced will depend on the service providers, user traffic, distance to the cabinet or phone mast, and the coverage in your area.
Wired broadband
Wireless broadband
Fibre and part fibre broadband
Fibre broadband uses a network of fibre-optic cables rather than the older copper ones. Fibre-optic material is better at transferring data, so the internet connection is faster and more reliable.
It is the fastest type of broadband, and is best for streaming TV, online gaming and watching HD films.
There are two ways to connect fibre broadband:
- Fibre to the Home (FTTH): delivers fibre the whole way to the home and offers speeds of up to 5Gbps in some parts of Ireland.
- Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC): delivers fibre to the nearest cabinet on the street, and from there, older copper cables deliver the connection to your home. It’s also known as part fibre.
Although part fibre broadband needs a phone cable, many providers will offer packages without charging for a call plan.
How do you know if you have fibre broadband?
Most broadband plans should be listed on your online account or bill.
If not, you can also use a speed test to gauge. Although this is much less accurate, it might give you an idea, as higher speeds usually mean full-fibre broadband.
- Speeds of up to 100 Mbps are typically DSL, cable or fixed wireless.
- A speed result of 200-2,000 Mbps means you have either cable or full-fibre internet service.
How fast is fibre broadband?
Although full fibre broadband is sometimes more expensive than other types of broadband, its reliable, high speed connection means you can complete tasks like downloading and uploading files much faster, and enjoy consistent, lag-free HD streaming and gaming. You also don’t need a landline.
Actual speeds compared to advertised speeds depend on several factors including:
- type of connection
- your devices
- the router and placement
100 Mbps
Faster than ADSL
250-500 Mbps
Standard speed
2-5 Gbps
Max Speed
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband connects you to the internet using a mobile phone network, either 4G or 5G. You can connect via:
It can be a good option for those who want the flexibility of internet on the go, or those who don’t have access to other forms of broadband. The speed you get depends on your provider’s coverage of the 4G or 5G network and the strength of your signal.
Pros
Cons
How good is satellite broadband?
Satellite broadband is a type of wireless broadband that uses a satellite dish. Once installed in your home, the dish sends and receives data to a satellite in space.
- Can be connected almost anywhere
- Now much faster with LEO networks like Starlink
- More expensive to install compared to fibre
- Not as consistent as full fibre for heavy use
ADSL broadband
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is one of the oldest and most widely available broadband connections. It uses existing copper home phone lines to provide internet speeds of up to 24Mbps.
Fixed Wireless broadband
Fixed wireless broadband is a type of broadband connection that uses radio signals to transmit and receive data to a dedicated phone mast.
Cable broadband
Cable broadband connects to your home via fibre-optic and coaxial cables. Fibre-optic cables run to a street cabinet and then coaxial cables connect from the cabinet to your home.
Can you get broadband without a landline?
Part fibre and ADSL broadband require a phone line, but many broadband providers offer packages that use a phone cable but don’t charge you for a call plan.
There are alternatives if you can’t have a phone line, such as:
- Mobile broadband
- Full fibre (FTTH) broadband
- Satellite broadband
- Cable broadband
Compare broadband plans now
Part 3
Choosing a broadband deal
There’s now more choice than ever when it comes to broadband in Ireland.
Whether you want the fastest full-fibre connection, the cheapest monthly price, or a broadband and TV bundle, most homes can choose from several high-speed providers.
When comparing deals, start by checking which networks are available where you live, then compare price, speed, and contract options.
Use our free broadband eircode checker to find the best value broadband in your area.
Compare broadband deals: step-by-step
Before switching to a new broadband provider, there’s a few things to consider:
- Availability: check to see what broadband providers operate in your area first, using the broadband eircode checker.
- Budget: weigh up the monthly cost with the level of internet speed and TV content you’ll actually use, then budget it into your outgoings.
- Speed: different networks provide different connection types with varying levels of speed. Consider the speed you need, based on things like how you use the internet and how many people are in your house.
- Bundles: if you want broadband and TV you can save by bundling all three together. It means just one monthly bill too.
- Offers: focus on lead in prices, discounts and set up costs, before looking at any extras, like free devices or credit off your bill.
- Data limits: the trend is toward unlimited data plans, but if your plan has a data limit, check the fair use policy and any fees for exceeding data limits.
- Contract length: most plans last 12 months. Consider possible increases after any initial introductory offers.
There are plenty of broadband providers to choose from, who compete to offer the cheapest deals, fastest speeds or free add-ons like Amazon Prime or Sports Passes.
How to pick the right broadband speed for your household
Your ideal broadband speed depends on how you use the internet and how many people share your connection.
Here’s a quick ‘at-a-glance’ table to help you decide - or you can check our more detailed guide on what speeds you need for more info.
| Household type | Typical usage | Recommended speed |
|---|---|---|
| Single user | Browsing, social media, occasional streaming | 50 – 100 Mb |
| Couple or small household | HD streaming, video calls, gaming | 250 – 500 Mb |
| Family home | Multiple devices, remote work, 4K streaming | 500 Mb – 1 Gb |
| Large household or power users | Heavy gaming, uploads, smart tech | 1 – 2 Gb+ |
Broadband and TV deals
Bundling broadband with TV or mobile can save money - and some providers now include free streaming memberships such as NOW TV, Amazon Prime, or Netflix for the first 6–12 months.
Broadband only
Choose a super fast internet-only deal that may still come with a phone line, but no call plan. Providers offering broadband only include Digiweb, Pure Telecom, Rural Wifi, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone.
Broadband and TV
Save by bundling your internet and TV together, with the ease of one monthly bill. eir, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone all offer broadband and TV deals.
Broadband bundles
Broadband bundles now go beyond just TV. Along with broadband-and-TV packages, some providers also offer discounts when you combine broadband with mobile bill-pay plans or add popular streaming services.
For example, Vodafone and eir both offer savings when you bundle your broadband and mobile plans on one bill, while Sky and Virgin Media include options to add Netflix, NOW TV, or Prime Video.
Bundling services together can simplify your bills and often works out cheaper than paying for each service separately.
Choosing a broadband and TV package
The main providers of broadband and TV packages are eir, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone.
When comparing broadband and TV deals, think about:
TV channels
All the main providers, eir, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone, offer broadband and TV packages.
Depending on your budget, you can choose broadband and standard TV channels, or spend a bit more and add on Sky Sports, Netflix or Sky Cinema.
- Sky TV: Sky Cinema has 12 movie channels, and a new film premiere every day. Sky has hundreds of movies on demand and you can also buy and keep movies from the Sky Store.
- eir TV: With eir, you can enjoy an Android TV 4K box and Amazon Prime membership included in your plan. You can also add Sky Cinema for an additional monthly charge.
- Virgin Media TV: Get access to Loaded TV channels, box sets, movies, and more. For a monthly fee, you can also add Sky Cinema and Sky Sports.
- Vodafone TV: With Vodafone TV PLAY you’ll get a 4K HD box for cinematic experience. Upgrade your package and get NOW Entertainment or NOW Sport membership for Sky content.
What is a good internet speed?
The right broadband speed depends on how you use the internet and how many people share your connection.
The right Broadband speed depends on how you use the internet and how many people share your connection.
Most homes in Ireland can now access full fibre broadband with speeds from 500 Mb up to 2 Gb, while Virgin Media and eir offer even faster 5 Gb options in selected areas.
If you want a full, data-driven breakdown of broadband speeds, technologies, and averages across Ireland, visit our in-depth Broadband Speeds in Ireland guide.
Understanding your broadband speed
There are two speed types:
- Download speed: how quickly you can download things like movies, images and music.
- Upload speed: how quickly you can send emails and upload pictures to social media or google drive.
Typical speed needs by activity
| Activity | Recommended speed | Connection type best suited | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light browsing, social media, email | 10–25 Mb | Part-fibre or mobile broadband | |
| HD / 4K streaming & video calls | 50–200 Mb | Full-fibre or high-speed cable | |
| Gaming or home office use | 250–500 Mb | Full-fibre connection | |
| Large households or multiple heavy users | 1–2 Gb | Gigabit-capable full fibre (FTTH) |
How fast is your broadband?
What is a fair usage policy?
Most broadband plans in Ireland are now marketed as unlimited, but they’re still subject to what’s known as a fair usage policy (FUP).
This policy helps providers manage network performance, especially during peak times, so everyone gets a reliable service.
A fair usage policy doesn’t mean there’s a strict data cap; instead, it allows your provider to temporarily reduce speeds or prioritise traffic if your usage is exceptionally high compared to typical customers.
How much data do you use?
| Activity | Average data used | |
|---|---|---|
| Browsing the internet | 50–100 MB per hour | |
| Reading or sending emails | < 1 MB per email | |
| Browsing social media (e.g. Facebook) | 150–250 MB per hour | |
| Streaming music (Spotify, Apple Music) | 100 MB per hour | |
| Streaming YouTube (HD) | 1–3 GB per hour | |
| Watching Netflix / NOW (HD) | 3 GB per hour | |
| Watching Netflix (4K) | 7 GB per hour | |
| Downloading an HD movie | 4–5 GB per film | |
| Online gaming | 40–300 MB per hour (downloads may be much larger) |
For most households, a 500 Mb–1 Gb unlimited plan is more than enough for daily streaming, gaming and work-from-home use.
Should you choose the cheapest broadband deal?
Broadband suppliers are always competing to offer the lowest broadband prices, but the cheapest deal is not always the best value and may not suit your household needs.
Check our comparison for the cheapest broadband deals in your area, but also compare other features such as the
- discount period
- thereafter price
- contract length
- connection speed
Part 4
Switching your broadband
Broadband providers usually reserve their best deals for new customers. Introductory discounts can last between 12-24 months but once they’re over, you’ll have to pay the standard price.
Switching your broadband every year could mean lower monthly costs, better connection speeds and data limits, as well as better customer service.
Will broadband be interrupted when you switch?
Usually not. Most Irish broadband providers coordinate the switch-over so your new service activates as your old one ends.
Just confirm your installation date and cancellation notice period with your current provider to avoid overlap or downtime.
Before you switch
Here are some things to consider before you start the switching process:
Eight steps to switch
Now you’re ready to switch. Here’s how:
- Compare: The best broadband-only, broadband and TV, and broadband mobile deals on Switcher.ie
- Read the Plan Info: Once you’ve chosen a deal, check out the ‘Plan Info’ to understand the costs and any terms and conditions.
- Complete form: If you’re happy, you’ll need to complete a quick form on Switcher.ie with your contact details and who your current provider is.
- Additional details: When you’ve completed the form, your new provider will be in touch to set up your account, and you’ll need to give them a few more details.
- Notice: Give your current broadband provider the relevant notice, and cancel your contract.
- Agree date: Agree an installation date with your new provider to avoid any interruption in service.
- Cancel direct debits: It’s a good idea to cancel any direct debits to your old provider, once your account is closed.
- Cooling off period: Take note of the 14-day cooling off period once you’re signed up to your new plan, as you can cancel without any penalties during this time.
How do you cancel your broadband?
If you want to switch providers or cancel any of your services, contact your supplier directly by phone, in writing or online. If you’re cancelling due to a problem with your broadband service, check your consumer rights first.
Once you’re sure you want to switch or cancel, it’s a good idea to have the following information ready:
- Your name and address as they appear on your bill
- Your UAN (Universal Account Number)
- Your landline telephone number including area code
Popular questions
Do providers need to alert me if my contract is due to end?
Yes, in Ireland, broadband providers are legally required to notify you before your contract ends and advise you on how to cancel, according to the EU’s Electronic Communications Code regulations, which came into effect in June 2023.
They must also provide ‘Best Tariff Advice’ recommending their best plan that suits your needs before the minimum term ends.
Many contracts will continue on the same terms after the minimum term has expired, but you have the right to cancel.
What TV packages come with Netflix?
Sky Stream and Sky Glass packages include Netflix as standard, while Virgin Media and eir offer add-ons for Netflix, NOW TV or Prime Video as part of selected broadband and TV bundles.
Can I bundle my broadband and mobile plan?
Yes. Providers like Vodafone and eir let you combine your mobile bill-pay plan with your broadband service for a single monthly bill.
You may also get extra mobile data, discounts, or account perks when you bundle both together.
What’s the difference between fibre broadband and SIRO?
SIRO is one of Ireland’s full-fibre networks, built by ESB and Vodafone, that delivers broadband using the existing electricity infrastructure.
When you buy a full-fibre plan from providers like Vodafone, Sky, or Pure Telecom, it may be delivered over the SIRO network; offering the same gigabit speeds as other fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) options.
Learn more in our SIRO broadband guide.
How often should I switch broadband provider?
It’s a good idea to review your broadband plan every 12 to 24 months, when your introductory discount ends.
Switching regularly can help you:
- Save money on monthly costs
- Get faster speeds or full-fibre upgrades
- Access new bundle offers and rewards
You can use our free broadband eircode checker to see the best current deals in your area.
Enjoy superfast fibre broadband
Use our eircode checker to find your best deal and switch today