Upload and download speeds: Synchronous vs asynchronous

When we think about broadband speed, we often focus on how fast web pages load and how seamless our online browsing experience is. However, one factor that many overlook is download and upload speeds. Whether you work from home, stream, or upload big files, these speeds can make or break your experience. Let’s break it down!

Download vs. upload speeds

• Download speed: How fast you receive data for things like streaming, browsing, or downloading files.
• Upload speed: How quickly you send data for video calls, emails with large attachments, or live streaming.

Synchronous vs. asynchronous speeds

Asynchronous

Most standard broadband connections are asynchronous, meaning the download speed is significantly higher than the upload speed. This setup works well for everyday broadband users who primarily stream content, browse websites, or download files, as these activities rely more on download speeds than upload speeds.

However, if you frequently upload large files, work remotely, or engage in online gaming and videocalls, a lower upload speed can lead to lag, buffering, and slow response times.

Synchronous

A synchronous broadband connection provides equal download and upload speeds, which is ideal for high-performance internet usage. This type of connection is particularly beneficial for:

• Remote workers who rely on video calls and cloud storage.
• Content creators who frequently upload large files and stream live videos.
• Gamers who need low-latency performance for real-time gaming.

If your internet feels sluggish, especially during file uploads or video calls, you might be on an asynchronous broadband plan that doesn’t offer enough upload speed. Here are some steps to improve your connection:

• Run a speed test to check your current download and upload speeds.
• Upgrade to a full fibre broadband connection for faster and more reliable speeds.
• Check your postcode availability to see if synchronous broadband is accessible at your address.

Why choose us for your broadband?

We team up with the UK’s top networks to bring you the fastest speeds right to your door! With our ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot rating, we provide an unbeatable experience and amazing customer support every step of the way.

Whether you need synchronous speeds for work and gaming or simply want a faster, more stable connection, we can help you find the best broadband package for you.