Bandwidth - A Quick Answer Would Be Most Helpful

Discussion in 'Software' started by mark59, Jan 27, 2025.

  1. mark59

    mark59 MajorGeek

    Please explain to an idiot, i.e. me, what bandwidth is. I’ve had problems with my internet. Slow speeds and at times no internet access at all. Numerous phone calls to my ISP haven’t resolved the issue. This has now gone on for two weeks and enough is enough. One problem I’ve noticed is when trying to watch documentaries on BBC iPlayer they have just frozen then a message has come on the screen saying you don’t have enough bandwidth. I know it is not the same as internet speed. Tomorrow I’m ringing my ISP and someone is going to get a rocket up their backside. It would help me if I knew what bandwidth was so I can be more knowledgeable when I complain. Thanks in advance.
     
  2. Wenchie

    Wenchie I R teh brat

    No worries—you’re not an idiot! Bandwidth can be a confusing concept, but I’ll break it down simply for you.

    Bandwidth is the amount of data your internet connection can handle at once—like the size of a highway. More bandwidth means more data can flow through simultaneously, while low bandwidth causes congestion, leading to buffering or freezing, like with BBC iPlayer.

    It’s not the same as speed, which is how fast the data travels. Even if your speed is good, limited bandwidth can cause problems when too much data tries to flow at once.

    When calling your ISP:
    • Mention the two-week issue and BBC iPlayer’s "not enough bandwidth" message.
    • Ask them to check for line faults, ensure you’re getting the bandwidth you pay for, and test your connection live.
    • Request a technician if it’s not fixed.
     
    mark59 likes this.
  3. mark59

    mark59 MajorGeek

    I rang their customer services and they laughed at me. I was shocked. Never has a customer services department laughed at me about a complaint. It's not something I do reglarly but this is the first time the response was for them to laugh at me. I have now had no option but to email their CEO. I don't anticipate a great response.
     

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