Broadband packages have evolved over the years to suit the different needs of different consumers, so you'll never have to settle for a standard package when there could be a better fit available. It can sometimes be difficult to find these niche deals however, which is where specialised internet searches can help you.

The first step when looking for a new broadband provider is to evaluate your needs, and decide exactly what you desire from the service. This includes how often you estimate you will be using the service - will you just be using your connection to send and receive occasional emails, or will you be using more advanced multimedia content, such as streaming videos and playing online games? Are you the only person in your household, or will the connection be accessed by multiple users? Are you planning on using your broadband connection for business, or just for entertainment?

Your answers to these types of questions could help you to identify with one of the common categories of internet users defined by the industry - from a 'light,' 'average' or 'family user' all the way to a 'heavy downloader,' 'gamer' or 'business user.' The latter categories naturally tend to require a different type of broadband package than the former, such as a focus on unlimited download and upload speeds.

There are different types of physical broadband connections available too, some of which may be better suited to your property than others. The most common types of broadband connections are ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) and fibre optic broadband, the former of which makes use of your existing phone line to access the internet but will not result in the line being busy or engaged. If available in your area, you may prefer the higher bandwidth offered by a fibre internet connection, which is provided by high-speed fibre cabling to a nearby “green street cabinet”. This is then connected to your house via a standard copper wire.

Looking at the features included in a home broadband package could also sway your decision over which service to choose, with some being more comprehensive and offering better value than others. At the same time, you may prefer to remove certain features from your package if you feel they are not needed, and may be costing you extra unnecessarily. Broadband packages can be highly flexible, so it's always worth speaking to your provider to see if you can find the package that best satisfies your requirements.

Catherine Clay writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.