Free Broadband - Orange or Talk Talk

[LouC]

I am currently with AOL and fed up of the monthy charge and the fact that it slows down the computer. I am thinking of changing to one of the free providers in the new year as I will then be out of the 12 month contract with AOL. I wonder which is the best one to go for - Orange or Talk Talk (I meet the requirements for obtaining free internet from both of these). My boyfriend uses the internet a lot and quite often can be online for a few hours a day. Can anyone advise? Many thanks.

[LostSheep]

Hi LouC - I'm currently using Orange broadband which is free with my pay monthly mobile contract and I'm extremely happy with it. The 'setting-up' was straight forward (no huge pieces of software to install so the computer won't be slowed down), the speed is excellent and hasn't changed in the few months that I've been using it and the help desk is very efficient (only had to phone them once when I had a small problem with my login details (my fault)). I think there is a monthly useage limit but it is very high and unless you are downloading alot of movies, you are not going to get anywhere near it with general surfing. You can also make free off-peak phone calls through the broadband which is another good point to make. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask??

[LouC]

Many thanks LostSheep, that's a great help. I obviously have mobile through Orange but my landline is through Talk Talk - does this cause any problems for connecting to Orange that you are aware of? I know some companies say you need a BT line to get their broadband service but (and this is where I will probably sound stupid!!) I never know if you're still classed as having a BT line if you switch to Talk Talk??!!!

[LostSheep]

Unfortunately I don't know about the Talk Talk / BT line situation. Are you still paying BT for the line rental or is it all with Talk Talk? I would speak with Orange and just clarify the situation with them.

[LouC]

I only make payments to Talk Talk so whether they pay BT themselves for the line?! Will check everything with Orange after the new year. Many thanks for your assistance and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!