Consumers 'can take several steps to boost broadband speeds'

Businesses and homeowners frustrated by their slow broadband speeds can take a number of steps to improve them, according to one industry figure.

Michael Phillips, product director at Broadbandchoices.co.uk, stated that the first port of call is to speak to the internet service provider (ISP) and explain to them what the problem is.

He stated that the ISP may be able to re-grade the line, which will boost broadband speeds.

The expert went on to suggest other ways in which internet speeds can be increased, claiming that the position of the router is also critical.

"Another piece of advice is not to put your router by any items that emit wireless signals, which can disrupt connections and avoid barriers such as walls and doors between your router and computer," Mr Phillips added.

According to the European Union's E-Communications Household Survey, 37 per cent of UK consumers are unhappy with the speed of their broadband.