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Mobile broadband is now affordable, fast and is a serious challenge to fixed line broadband such as DSL or cable. In the UK, there are currently just a handful of providers that offer internet access via high speed mobile networks. Portable broadband connections open up a wide range of new possibilities including:-

• High speed Internet access on your laptop whilst you are mobile.
• A real alternative for fixed line broadband.

Could these factors spell the end of standard fixed line broadband in the near future? Read on to compare how new the portable mobile connections stack up against standard fixed connections.

These days, it's cheap to get a decent broadband connection that operates over mobile phone networks using High Speed Download Packet Access (HSDPA). These new high speed mobile networks let you get speeds of up to 3.4 Mbit/sec or higher. Our broadband speed test shows fixed line broadband connections typically average 3Mbit/sec.

Mobile broadband coverage is getting better all the time too. Pretty soon, you will be able get high speed portable broadband in most areas in the UK.

Broadband using mobile high speed networks is a real alternative to fixed line in terms of price and speed and availability / coverage.

It is now possible to enjoy broadband at home without having fixed line DSL or cable. If you also use a mobile phone at home, it begins to raise the question of why have fixed line phone line or cable connections at all? In the UK, fixed line rentals are typically around 15 / month. If you remove this fixed line, you save over 180 per year. With deals on 3G HSDPA connections coming in at around 15 per month, you can get essentially the same broadband but with the added advantage that you can take it on the road too.

Whilst there is no doubt that mobile broadband has come of age, finding the best package is not always that easy. Comparing packages should be simple. However, with a wide variety of different tariffs, discounts and contracts on offer, it's easy to get confused. However, if consumers are able to easily compare packages, they can make informed decisions about which option best is best for them. This saves money as well as getting the best technology fit for their computer platform (e.g. Mac or PC).

Is fixed line broadband heading for extinction? It's inevitable that the fixed line providers will come up with better propositions is terms of price, service and free extras in order to compete with the mobile providers. At the moment, it's anyone's game but mobile broadband is now presenting some serious competition perhaps for the first time ever.

Compare Mobile Broadband in the UK.