The broadband USO and the £3,400 threshold
Under the Broadband Universal Service Obligation you can request a connection with at least 10 Mbit/s download and 1 Mbit/s upload. The Order sets a £3,400 cost threshold: a connection must be provided if it will cost no more than £3,400, or if it will cost more and you pay the amount above £3,400, subject to the Order's other conditions (USO Order 2018).
Project Gigabit and vouchers
Project Gigabit is the government programme to bring gigabit-capable broadband (at least 1 Gbps) to hard-to-reach areas, and the government expects 99% of premises to have access to a gigabit-capable connection by 2032. Its Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme offered vouchers worth up to £4,500 each that suppliers could pool towards installation costs, but it closed to new voucher project submissions on 31 August 2026. Existing voucher projects continue until the scheme's planned closure on 31 March 2028 or their agreed end dates (GOV.UK). If a voucher project already covers your area, ask the supplier running it.
Equipment and installation
For fixed wireless, 4G/5G or satellite, the cost usually includes equipment and possibly an external antenna or dish. Local installers can survey your signal before you commit. Compare monthly prices, contract length and installation charges in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Will I have to pay for a broadband USO connection?
Under the USO Order, a connection must be provided if it costs no more than £3,400. If it costs more, you can choose to pay the excess.
What speed does the broadband USO guarantee?
At least 10 Mbit/s download and 1 Mbit/s upload.