How to choose the best broadband for families with children in the UK

If you have children at home, your broadband needs to handle streaming, gaming, schoolwork, and video calls—all while keeping kids safe online. Slow speeds, frequent dropouts, or a lack of parental controls can cause frustration and security risks.

This guide explains how to choose the best broadband for families with children, what speed you need, and how to set up parental controls for a safer online experience.

  1. What broadband speed do families with children need?

The right broadband speed depends on the number of people in your household and how they use the internet.

Family Size & Usage Recommended Speed
1-2 users (browsing, homework, emails) 30 Mbps
3-4 users (HD streaming, video calls, gaming) 100-300 Mbps
5+ users (4K streaming, gaming, multiple devices) 300+ Mbps

📌Tip: If your children stream in 4K, game online, or use multiple devices, full-fibre broadband (FTTP) is the best choice for a lag-free experience.

  1. Why fibre broadband is best for families

Fibre broadband offers:

Faster speeds – Prevents slowdowns when multiple people are online.
More reliability – Reduces buffering during Netflix, Disney+, or YouTube streaming.
Better support for gaming – Fibre broadband ensures low latency for multiplayer gaming.
Stable video calls – No lag for homework help, tutoring sessions, or family video calls.

📌Tip: If available, full-fibre broadband (FTTP) is the best option for families who need consistent, high-speed internet.

  1. How to set up broadband parental controls

Keeping children safe online is just as important as having fast, reliable broadband. Many providers offer built-in parental controls to:

Block inappropriate content – Filter websites based on age settings.
Set time limits – Restrict internet access during bedtime or study hours.
Monitor online activity – Some providers allow parents to track online activity for extra security.
Pause Wi-Fi on specific devices – Useful for limiting screen time for younger children.

📌Tip: If your broadband provider doesn’t offer parental controls, you can set up free filtering tools on most devices and routers.

  1. How to save money on family broadband

Broadband for families doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s how to cut costs:

🔹Check for family-friendly bundle deals – Some providers include streaming services or mobile SIMs in broadband packages.
🔹Compare deals every 12-18 months – New customers often get better prices than existing ones.
🔹Look for family discounts – Some providers offer discounts on multiple broadband and mobile contracts.

📌Tip: If you’re out of contract, you’re likely overpaying. Switching broadband providers can save your family hundreds per year.

  1. Find the best broadband for families with children

Need fast, reliable broadband that’s safe for children?

Check broadband deals here to find a package that supports streaming, gaming, schoolwork, and parental controls.

Final thoughts: Get broadband that keeps up with your family’s needs

A family broadband connection needs to be fast, reliable, and safe. Upgrading to fibre broadband, setting up parental controls, and comparing deals regularly ensures your home stays connected while keeping kids safe online.

Compare broadband deals today and switch to a package that’s perfect for families with children.