TalkTalk is a long-established UK broadband provider, originally launched in 2003. As of 2025, it offers a wide range of fixed-line broadband packages through wholesale access agreements, primarily via the Openreach network. In some areas, its full fibre coverage is extended through partnerships with alternative network operators such as CityFibre. Standard and superfast packages (including Fibre 35 and Fibre 65) are available to the majority of UK households, while full fibre services are now widely accessible across urban and suburban locations.
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TalkTalk supplies different routers depending on the package you choose:
Wi-Fi Hub – The TalkTalk Wi-Fi Hub, supplied with Fibre 35 and Fibre 65 plans, is now somewhat outdated compared to routers offered by similarly priced competitors. It lacks modern features such as Wi-Fi 6, mesh support, or app-based controls. By contrast, Vodafone includes its WiFi 6-enabled Power Hub, which can be managed via the Vodafone Broadband app, while EE supplies the Smart Hub Plus with Wi-Fi 6 as standard. For a similar price, these alternatives offer more advanced hardware and the option to add on additional Wi-Fi convenience features, such as network prioritisation, app-based diagnostics, and parental controls.
Amazon eero and eero Pro 6 – Supplied with Full Fibre 150, 500, and 900. The eero 6 supports Wi-Fi 6, while the eero Pro 6 offers higher performance for larger households or heavier usage. These mesh-compatible systems are managed through the Amazon eero app, which allows users to monitor devices, run speed tests, manage guest networks, and enable safety filters. Additional eeros can be added to create a whole-home mesh network. If you opt into Total Home Wi-Fi, TalkTalk may provide extra eero units if speeds drop below a minimum threshold in eligible rooms.
Using your own router with TalkTalk broadband – Customers familiar with adjusting router settings may prefer to use their own equipment instead of TalkTalk’s supplied hardware. This can be especially useful for those who already own a mesh system or wish to upgrade to newer technologies such as Wi-Fi 7. By using a third-party router, it’s possible to benefit from improved performance, extended coverage, and more advanced features, while still taking advantage of TalkTalk’s competitively priced broadband plans. For configuration guidance, see: How to use your own router with TalkTalk.
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Switching to TalkTalk is usually straightforward, especially if you're currently with another broadband provider that also uses the Openreach network—such as Sky, BT, Plusnet, EE, or Vodafone. In most cases, you won’t need to contact your old provider, as TalkTalk will handle the switch for you. Most packages come with no setup fees, and for full fibre (FTTP) plans, an Openreach engineer will install the connection. You’ll be able to select a convenient installation date and time when placing your order. The engineer visit typically takes one to two hours.
If you're choosing a broadband-only plan (without a landline), TalkTalk will give you a speed estimate before you order. For a more detailed forecast of what’s available at your property, use our broadband speed estimator tool to see postcode and street-level results.
| Fibre 35 | Up to 38Mbps (FTTC) |
|---|---|
| Fibre 65 | Up to 77Mbps (FTTC) |
| Full Fibre 65 | Average 77Mbps (FTTP) |
|---|---|
| Full Fibre 150 | Average 152Mbps (FTTP) |
| Full Fibre 250* | Average 290Mbps (FTTP) |
| Full Fibre 500 | Average 525Mbps (FTTP) |
| Full Fibre 900 | Average 944Mbps (FTTP) |
(*) Full Fibre 250 is not listed by default on the TalkTalk website and appears to be available only in limited areas. It may not be presented as an option unless specifically offered for your location.
Visit TalkTalkThese speeds are download-focused. Like all Openreach-based providers, upload speeds are significantly lower and not symmetrical. For example, Full Fibre 500 offers around 72Mbps upload. For users who need symmetrical speeds (equal upload and download), providers on alternative full fibre networks such as Hyperoptic or Community Fibre may be worth exploring. However, TalkTalk’s upload speeds will be sufficient for most UK households.
All TalkTalk broadband plans include a 24-month minimum contract. As of August 2024, new customers are subject to a fixed £3/month annual increase, replacing the previous CPI+3.7% model. This means prices will rise each April during the contract term, and the increase is not linked to inflation. This fixed-price rise is now common across most large UK ISPs.
Total Home Wi-Fi is an optional add-on for customers on Full Fibre 150, 500, and 900 plans. If speeds in any eligible room fall below a certain threshold (e.g. 10Mbps), TalkTalk will supply additional eero devices at no extra cost to improve coverage.
To qualify, your home must meet TalkTalk's eligibility criteria (up to 6 bedrooms, no basement rooms, etc.). A home assessment may be required. If you fail to achieve full coverage within 45 days, you may cancel the add-on without penalty.
TalkTalk has replaced traditional landlines with Digital Voice, a VoIP service that runs through your broadband connection. For Wi-Fi Hub users, a standard phone plugs directly into the router. For those using eero devices, a Digital Voice Adapter is supplied.
Be aware that Digital Voice will not work during a power cut unless you have a battery backup. TalkTalk provides a free battery backup unit for customers with accessibility or safety needs. Traditional services such as medical or burglar alarms may not be compatible with Digital Voice, so users should confirm suitability before switching. You can port your existing number or request a new one during the sign-up process.
TalkTalk TV is available as an add-on to any fibre or full fibre package. It includes access to over 70 Freeview channels, supports pause and rewind (up to 90 minutes), and runs popular streaming apps including Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and NOW via the TalkTalk TV Hub. The box connects via a TV aerial and your broadband connection.
TalkTalk TV does not include bundled premium content but provides basic free-to-air and on-demand access. Monthly access fees apply, and the TV service operates independently from your broadband contract.
TalkTalk does not offer a traditional social tariff. However, it has partnered with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to offer eligible jobseekers on Universal Credit a six-month free broadband voucher. After the six months, users can cancel or move to a standard plan. While not as flexible as some social tariffs, this scheme may help those needing short-term connectivity support.
If you're currently receiving benefit support such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), our social tariff comparison service can help you find a suitable low-cost broadband provider.
Visit TalkTalkAccording to Ofcom’s Telecoms and Pay-TV Complaints Report (published 13 February 2025, based on data from July–September 2024), TalkTalk had the highest volume of broadband complaints, with 14 complaints per 100,000 customers, above the industry average of 10. Key issues included faults, service interruptions, and installation problems.
On the positive side, TalkTalk’s TV service performed better, with fewer complaints than both EE and Virgin Media.
Customer service feedback is mixed. While some users report improved reliability and better router performance, others highlight issues with call centre support and repetitive troubleshooting processes. On Trustpilot, TalkTalk has a score of 3 out of 5 stars (as of March 2025), based on over 85,000 reviews.
TalkTalk is a signatory of Ofcom’s Voluntary Broadband Speeds Code of Practice, which includes a Right to Exit without penalty if your service underperforms. If your actual download speed consistently falls below the guaranteed minimum provided at sign-up, and the issue isn’t fixed within 30 days of being reported, you can leave your contract early without paying any exit fees. You’ll need to allow engineer access if required, and the right also applies to any bundled services using the same broadband line.
TalkTalk broadband is a competitively priced option that uses the Openreach network to deliver widespread coverage across the UK. Full Fibre plans include Amazon eero routers with mesh support and Wi-Fi 6, while Fibre 35 and Fibre 65 come with older hardware that may not suit all users.
Those looking to enhance their home setup for example, by using a Wi-Fi 7 router or integrating with an existing mesh system can opt to use their own router with TalkTalk broadband by applying manual settings.
Although annual price rises of £3 are fixed and predictable, they should still be considered when comparing broadband deals. Complaint volumes reported by Ofcom are above the industry average, particularly for service faults and installation. However, TalkTalk’s Trustpilot score of 3 out of 5 (March 2025) is higher than some other major providers — reflecting a more balanced mix of customer experiences. For users focused on price, TalkTalk offers good value across both entry-level and full fibre plans, with the option to use your own router if you’re looking to optimise performance or integrate an existing setup.
If you'd like to use your own router with TalkTalk broadband for example, to take advantage of an existing mesh system or a router that supports newer technology like Wi-Fi 7 you can do so by entering the TalkTalk connection settings shown below. However, it's important to note that if you're using third-party equipment, minimum guaranteed speeds no longer apply. If an engineer visit is required and the issue is found to be caused by your own setup, you may be charged a call-out fee. We recommend reconnecting the original TalkTalk equipment before contacting support for network faults.
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| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Username | No username needed (automatic authentication) |
| Password | No password needed (automatic authentication) |
| Transfer Mode/Loop Encaps | PTM |
| VLAN ID | 101 |
| MTU | 1500 |
| DNS | Set as automatic |
| Priority | 0 |
| Authentication | DHCP/IPoE |
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Username | Your phone number followed by @talktalk.net (e.g. [email protected]) |
| Password | No password needed (automatic authentication) |
| VPI | 0 |
| VCI | 38 |
| MTU | 1432 |
| DNS | Set as automatic |
| Encapsulation | PPP over ATM (PPPoA) using VC-MUX |
| Modulation Type | Auto |
If using a non-TalkTalk router with TalkTalk TV, IGMP must be enabled for internet channels to work.
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Username | Your phone number followed by @talktalk.net |
| Password | No password needed |
| Enable IGMP | Enabled |
| IGMP Proxy | IGMP V2/V3 |
| IGMP Snooping | Enabled |
| VPI | 0 |
| VCI | 65 |
| QoS | ubr |
| Encapsulation | 1483 Bridged Only LLC |
| Bridge Type | PPP |
