Slow Rural Broadband? Test Your Speed and Discover Your Upgrade Options

Living in rural North Wales should not mean putting up with slow internet.

If video calls keep freezing, downloads take too long or streaming becomes frustrating when everyone is online, it is worth finding out what your connection actually delivers and whether a better option is available.

Start with the broadband speed test below, then enter your details in the embedded app. Boyns can assess your property and explain the speeds you could potentially achieve with an upgrade.

For eligible properties, the Welsh Government’s Access Broadband Cymru (ABC) grant could also help towards equipment and installation costs.

Take a broadband speed test

The test below measures the performance of the connection you are using now. It gives you a starting point for comparing your current broadband with the options available at your address.

What do your broadband speed test results mean?

Your results will usually include three measurements:

• Download speed affects how quickly you receive information, including streaming programmes, opening websites and downloading files.Upload speed matters when uploading files, backing up photos and taking part in video calls.

• Latency, sometimes labelled ping, measures how quickly your connection responds. Alongside connection stability, it can affect calls and online gaming.

The most useful question is whether your connection supports what your household needs. A home with several people working, streaming and using connected devices has different demands from someone who mainly browses websites and checks email.

How much faster could your rural broadband be?

Boyns assesses home internet solutions across North Wales, including:

• Fibre broadband, where available at your address.

• Fixed wireless broadband, including Boyns WISP where coverage allows.

• 4G and 5G broadband, depending on local signal and suitable equipment.

• Starlink satellite broadband, where appropriate for the property.

Your postcode helps us begin checking availability. Depending on the technology, we may also need to assess signal strength, installation position or the view of the sky. We can then explain the potential speed range, installation requirements and ongoing costs. Actual performance depends on the solution and conditions at your property, so we will discuss realistic expectations before you commit.

Could the ABC rural broadband grant help?

The Access Broadband Cymru grant offers up to £800 per eligible premises, split between up to £550 for equipment and £250 for installation. A key requirement is that your property is in Wales and cannot access a download speed of at least 30 Mbps through any provider. Other eligibility conditions apply, including previous public broadband funding.

A speed test below 30 Mbps does not automatically mean you qualify. Available services at your address also need to be checked. The new connection must achieve average download speeds of at least 30 Mbps. Monthly subscriptions and internal WiFi boosters or mesh systems are excluded from funding.

Boyns can apply for the grant on your behalf, so you don't have to lift a finger.

For a fuller introduction, read our guide to the Welsh Government ABC rural broadband grant.

Is your broadband slow, or is your WiFi struggling?

If your connection performs well near the router but becomes unreliable upstairs or in another room, WiFi coverage may be contributing to the problem. If speeds remain poor over a wired connection, the incoming broadband service may need further investigation. Understanding this difference helps you invest in the right improvement. Boyns can assess both your broadband options and how the connection reaches the rooms where you need it.

Find out what is possible at your address

You do not need to choose a technology before speaking to us. Start with your current speed and what you want to improve.

Take the speed test above, then enter your details in the embedded app.

Our local team in Ruthin can review your options, explain the potential improvement and help you understand whether ABC grant funding may be available.

Find out how much faster your rural broadband could be.

Use the app above to take the next step towards faster rural broadband.

Call 01824 702211 or email info@boyns.net.