UK lagging behind in global broadband rankings

The UK's broadband performance is far behind South Korea, Japan and Finland, according to a new study.

Research by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation found the UK was 13th out of 30 countries analysed, above the US in 15th. The country was awarded a composite score of 10.3, which takes into account household penetration, download speed and price.

Around 55 per cent of users now have access to broadband services, which compares relatively well with most countries. However, an average download speed of 2.6Mbs and price of $1.24 per megabit prevents the UK from ranking higher.

South Korea scored the highest with a overall score of 15.92 and a penetration rate of 93 per cent. Japan has the fastest average connection speed with a remarkable 63.6Mbs, while it also topped the list for value with a cost of just $0.13 per megabit.

Ofcom is currently examining how existing infrastructure, such as sewers, could be used to improve the UK network and supply high-speed broadband.

Posted on: 2008-05-06, in: Broadband

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