Half of broadband users could access faster speeds

Half of Britons who currently have a broadband connection could potentially access faster speeds as they have not changed their provider in four years.

Figures published by comparison website Consumerchoices.co.uk reveal that 50 per cent of web users are still using four-year-old deals, despite the fact that average prices have fallen by nearly 40 per cent during the period of time due to intense market competition.

While prices have fallen substantially, speeds have also increased by about 700 per cent, meaning more effective use of VoIP hardware is available in addition to quicker download times.

Michael Phillips, product director at Consumerchoices.co.uk, said: "These results are very disappointing as there is a fantastic selection of ISPs (internet service providers) and packages available to consumers. Major providers continue to battle it out for market share and in so doing drive through cost savings and service improvements."

The government plans to connect every home to a broadband service by 2012, while ISPs are under pressure to invest in next-generation networks.