Broadband users urged to make the most of cheap deals

Broadband customers should make the most of cheap deals while they can as internet service providers (ISPs) will likely increase tariffs soon, new research claims.

Reports produced by Omnitele and Strand Consult have indicated that the costs of network roll-out projects for mobilebroadband providers will make their business models less profitable.

This means that providers may look for ways to recoup their costs by levying new charges or introducing additional premium services.

Broadband Genie editor Chris Marling said broadband prices are currently low as providers fight for numbers in a growing market, but he added that UK ISPs are "no mugs".

"They realise the situation isn't sustainable and will be looking to change packages and turn a profit in the near future," he explained.

"Raising prices for heavy users, who are typically early adopters to new technology, makes financial sense."

Mr Marling said that by doing this, there will be more "leeway" in the price structure to attract the casual broadband users who "may still need some convincing".

According to recently released figures compiled by the Office for National Statistics, 19 out of 20 internet connections in the UK are now via broadband.