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Internet Services

Information on broadband, fiber, and Wi-Fi services for residences and businesses.

Sections

1. Types of Internet Connections Available in Drogheda

Drogheda has access to several types of internet connections, depending on your location within the town:

  • Fibre Broadband: The fastest and most reliable option, available in many parts of Drogheda. Providers like eir, Virgin Media, and SIRO offer fibre connections.
  • DSL (ADSL/VDSL): Delivered via telephone lines, this is a slower option compared to fibre but widely available.
  • Wireless Broadband: Ideal for rural areas or locations where fibre or DSL is unavailable. Providers like Imagine and Digiweb offer this service.
  • Mobile Broadband: Internet via 4G/5G networks, suitable for light users or temporary setups. Providers include Vodafone, Three, and eir.
  • Satellite Broadband: A last-resort option for remote areas, offered by companies like Sky or Starlink.

2. Internet Service Providers in Drogheda

Here are the main ISPs operating in Drogheda, along with their offerings:

a. Virgin Media

  • Connection Type: Fibre broadband.
  • Speeds: Up to 1Gbps.
  • Packages: Standalone broadband or bundles with TV and phone services.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ70/month depending on the speed and package.
  • Installation: Typically free for new customers; installation takes 1โ€“2 weeks.
  • Customer Support: 24/7 support via phone, chat, or email.

b. eir

  • Connection Type: Fibre and DSL.
  • Speeds: Up to 1Gbps for fibre; slower for DSL.
  • Packages: Broadband-only or bundles with TV and mobile plans.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ35โ€“โ‚ฌ60/month.
  • Installation: Free or low-cost installation; takes 1โ€“2 weeks.
  • Customer Support: Available via phone, chat, or in-store.

c. Vodafone

  • Connection Type: Fibre, DSL, and mobile broadband.
  • Speeds: Up to 1Gbps for fibre.
  • Packages: Broadband-only or bundles with mobile plans.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ65/month.
  • Installation: Free for fibre; mobile broadband is plug-and-play.
  • Customer Support: Phone and online support.

d. Sky Ireland

  • Connection Type: Fibre and DSL.
  • Speeds: Up to 500Mbps.
  • Packages: Broadband-only or bundles with TV.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ60/month.
  • Installation: Free for new customers; takes 1โ€“2 weeks.
  • Customer Support: Phone and online support.

e. Imagine

  • Connection Type: Wireless broadband.
  • Speeds: Up to 150Mbps.
  • Packages: Broadband-only.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ50/month.
  • Installation: Requires a small antenna; installation fee applies.
  • Customer Support: Phone and online support.

f. Digiweb

  • Connection Type: Fibre, DSL, and wireless broadband.
  • Speeds: Up to 1Gbps for fibre.
  • Packages: Broadband-only or bundles with phone services.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ60/month.
  • Installation: Free or low-cost installation.
  • Customer Support: Phone and email support.

g. Starlink (Satellite Internet)

  • Connection Type: Satellite broadband.
  • Speeds: Up to 250Mbps.
  • Packages: Broadband-only.
  • Average Cost: โ‚ฌ89/month + โ‚ฌ450 for equipment.
  • Installation: Self-installation with provided kit.
  • Customer Support: Online support.

3. Average Costs

  • Fibre Broadband: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ70/month.
  • DSL Broadband: โ‚ฌ30โ€“โ‚ฌ50/month.
  • Wireless Broadband: โ‚ฌ40โ€“โ‚ฌ50/month.
  • Mobile Broadband: โ‚ฌ20โ€“โ‚ฌ40/month (data limits may apply).
  • Satellite Broadband: โ‚ฌ89/month (higher upfront costs).

4. Installation Procedures

  1. Check Availability: Use the providerโ€™s website to check if your address is eligible for their services.
  2. Choose a Package: Select a plan based on your speed requirements and budget.
  3. Sign Up: Sign up online, over the phone, or in-store (if applicable).
  4. Schedule Installation: For fibre, DSL, or wireless broadband, a technician will visit your home to set up the connection. Mobile broadband and satellite services are typically self-install.
  5. Equipment: Most providers supply a modem/router as part of the package. For satellite broadband, youโ€™ll need to purchase the equipment.
  6. Activation: Once installed, the service is usually activated within 24โ€“48 hours.

5. Contract Terms

  • Contract Length: Most providers require a 12- or 24-month contract. Some offer month-to-month plans at a higher cost.
  • Early Termination Fees: If you cancel before the contract ends, you may need to pay a fee.
  • Promotions: Many providers offer discounts for the first 6โ€“12 months of service.

6. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Compare Providers: Use comparison websites like Bonkers.ie to find the best deals and check availability at your address.
  • Bundle Deals: If you need TV or mobile services, consider bundling them with your broadband for savings.
  • Speed Requirements: For streaming, gaming, or working from home, aim for at least 100Mbps. For basic browsing, 30โ€“50Mbps is sufficient.
  • Customer Reviews: Check online reviews for insights into reliability and customer service.
  • Rural Areas: If you live outside Drogheda town, wireless or satellite broadband may be your best option.
  • Data Caps: Most fibre and DSL plans are unlimited, but mobile and satellite broadband may have data limits.

7. Customer Support

  • Availability: Most providers offer support during business hours, with some offering 24/7 assistance.
  • Methods: Support is typically available via phone, email, live chat, or social media.
  • Local Offices: Some providers, like eir and Vodafone, have physical stores where you can get assistance.

8. How to Choose the Best Provider

  • Speed: Determine your speed needs based on your household size and usage.
  • Availability: Check which providers offer services at your address.
  • Cost: Compare monthly fees, installation costs, and promotional offers.
  • Reliability: Look for providers with a reputation for consistent service.
  • Flexibility: If youโ€™re renting or staying short-term, consider month-to-month plans or mobile broadband.

By following this guide, you should be able to find and set up an internet service in Drogheda that meets your needs. If you have any further questions or need help with a specific provider, feel free to ask!