ISP seeks broadband testing from SamKnows

Major internet service provider (ISP) Virgin Media has enlisted the help of SamKnows, the technical partner of industry regulator Ofcom, to test its new fibre services.

The ISP has spent the last 18 months upgrading its broadband network to next-generation fibre optic technology to enable customers to receive connections of up to 50 megabits per second and it is keen to get an accurate measure of actual speeds its users are getting.

SamKnows will measure the services received by 750 different Virgin Media customers over the next year to test a range of elements, including how many are enjoying faster download times and more efficient use of VoIP solutions.

Alex Salter, chairman of SamKnows, said: "Virgin Media is proactively looking to assess itself to make sure its customers are getting value for money. The move can only be good for the consumer, especially if it encourages other ISPs to follow Virgin Media's lead."

BT is one of the main rivals to Virgin Media, having recently pledged to invest £1.5 billion in next-generation broadband networks.