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Now Broadband Review
Ties the Broadband Expert - Transition

Our neutral NOW Broadband analysis for 2025 zeroes in on key elements for a lively family setup. We inspect full fibre operations in peak evening slots, dependability for home office duties, and the openness of fee structures and deal specifics. Ties the Broadband Expert values NOW’s uncomplicated bundle selections and the bundled router that aids in full-house Wi-Fi over FTTP. The FindCheapBroadband crew verified NOW Broadband’s site for the newest info.

When your home buzzes with online viewing, gaming sessions, and conference calls happening together, NOW Broadband delivers different tiers featuring solid upload rates for syncing files and large transfers. Service area mostly tracks Openreach expansion, making it wise to confirm your address upfront.

NOW Broadband Score Summary

STABLE PRICING
0.0
Overall Score
In 2025, NOW Broadband offers accessible Full Fibre plans via Openreach, a solid Sky Broadband Hub router, responsive UK support, and consistent pricing throughout your term. Our experts drew from the latest Ofcom guidance as of August 22, 2025.
Ofcom Compliant UK Support Team Stable Pricing
🔍 NOW BROADBAND OVERVIEW 2025

NOW Broadband provides transparent pricing and dependable Full Fibre connections through Openreach’s network.

🗓️ BROADBAND SINCE: 2013
👥 CEO: Jonathan Evans
🏛️ PARENT COMPANY: Sky UK Limited
🌍 HQ: London, England
🏛️ JURISDICTION: United Kingdom
📡 NETWORK: Openreach FTTP
  • 🚀 Full Fibre (FTTP)
  • 👥 UK-Based Support
  • 📶 Sky Broadband Hub Router
  • 🧾 Stable Pricing
  • 📈 Unlimited Data
  • ⚙️ Flexible Terms
  • 📞 No Landline Needed on FTTP
  • 🧰 Online Account Tools
  • 📏 Transparent Typical Speeds
  • 🛠️ Professional Install (where needed)
  • 🔁 Wi-Fi Extender Options
  • 🔌 Easy Switching
Who It's For:
  • 🎮 Gamers
  • 🎥 Streamers
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Families
  • 🏠 Remote Workers
Ties, the broadband expert

NOW Broadband Review 2025: Is It Worth It?

Is NOW Broadband Your Top Pick for 2025? Ties the Broadband Expert Weighs In

NOW Broadband in 2025: Ties the Broadband Expert’s Fair Assessment for UK Home Internet

For those seeking clear pricing and reliable fibre performance, NOW Broadband is a strong contender. Our team at FindCheapBroadband double-checked NOW Broadband’s website for the latest updates, examining Full Fibre availability on Openreach, daily reliability, router quality, and the speed of customer support when issues arise.

Ties the Broadband Expert notes: “NOW Broadband makes internet simple and dependable. If Full Fibre is accessible at your address and you value flexible monthly or 12-month plans, it’s a great match for families and remote workers.”

FULL FIBRE FTTP
UK SUPPORT
ADAPTABLE CONTRACTS

NOW BROADBAND FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

⚡ “What makes NOW Broadband stand out in 2025? These points reflect the current Full Fibre (Powered by Sky) and FTTC options. Availability varies by postcode.”

FULL FIBRE 75 / 100 / 300

Full Fibre plans (Powered by Sky) with estimated speeds of 75, 100 or 300Mb and uploads up to ~40Mb, plus Sky’s Wall to Wall WiFi Guarantee. (Orders complete on Sky.com.)

FAB & SUPER FIBRE (FTTC)

Fab Fibre averages ~36Mb; Super Fibre ~61Mb over FTTC. Delivered via a phone line with optional call plans.

NO LANDLINE ON FULL FIBRE

Full Fibre is broadband-only. FTTC packages use a phone line; line rental is included in the price.

SKY HUB & WIFI GUARANTEE

Plans include the Sky Broadband Hub and Wi-Fi in every room or money back (as advertised on NOW’s Full Fibre pages).

NOW MEMBERSHIP ADD-ONS

Add Entertainment, Cinema or Sports. Boost enables 1080p/5.1 with fewer ads on on-demand; Ultra Boost adds 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos on supported devices.

UNLIMITED DATA

All NOW broadband packages are unlimited, suitable for busy multi-device homes.

CONTRACT OPTIONS

Full Fibre typically on 24-month terms via Sky. FTTC: 12-month Saver or 30-day rolling with 30 days’ notice.

PRICING & AVAILABILITY

Check your postcode for live prices. Offers and availability vary; prices can change during the minimum term.

See NOW Broadband Deals

NOW Broadband Pros and Cons: 2025 Review

Three clear pros and three honest cons

Flexible Contracts

Pick a 30-day rolling plan for flexibility (typically a higher setup fee) or lock in a 12-month deal for a lower monthly price.

Simple, Unlimited Plans

Broadband-only, unlimited usage with straightforward pricing—easy to compare and no data caps to worry about.

Full Fibre up to ~300Mb

Where FTTP is live, NOW’s Full Fibre tiers reach roughly 300Mb—plenty for UHD streaming, cloud backups and multi-device homes.

No Gigabit Option

Unlike BT, Sky or Virgin Media, NOW doesn’t sell 500Mb/900Mb+ packages; top speeds cap around 300Mb.

Limited Bundles

Fewer all-in bundles than big ISPs. You can add NOW TV memberships separately, but it’s not the same as an integrated TV package.

Postcode-Dependent FTTP

Coverage depends on Openreach; many addresses still only get older ‘Fab/Superfast’ fibre, not Full Fibre.

NOW Broadband Plans: What You Can Get (as of 27 Aug 2025)

FTTC in Most Areas • FTTP in Some • Check Your Postcode

NOW Fab Fibre (FTTC)

Average ~36Mb. A solid entry for small homes and HD streaming. Speed varies with cabinet distance and line quality. Good balance of price and everyday performance.

NOW Super Fibre (FTTC)

Average ~63–67Mb. Better for multi-device households and busier evenings. Still copper from cabinet to home, so uploads won’t match full fibre.

NOW Full Fibre 100 (FTTP)

Average ~100Mb down via fibre-to-the-premises in enabled areas. More stable latency and stronger uploads than FTTC—great for bigger downloads, smart homes and frequent video calls.

Contracts & Fees

12-month or rolling (no-contract) options are commonly offered. Setup/activation and delivery fees can apply and vary by promo—always confirm at checkout before you commit.

Router & Support

The NOW Hub Two router is typically included. Standard online and phone support. Features may differ by plan and availability at your address.

About NOW Broadband: Who They Are & Why Customers Choose Them

Simple FTTC Plans • Clear Pricing • NOW Hub Two Included

Who Is NOW Broadband?

NOW Broadband is part of Sky and uses the Openreach network. It mainly sells Fibre (FTTC) broadband rather than full fibre. If you want streaming, you can add NOW TV memberships separately—no special bundle required.

Contracts & Pricing

Choose a standard minimum term or a rolling, no-contract option (usually with a higher setup fee). Offers and any mid-term price changes depend on the plan you pick—check the latest small print before you commit.

Speeds, Router & Availability

Typical FTTC tiers reach around 63–67 Mbps download; your actual speed depends on your line and postcode. A NOW Hub Two router is included for easy setup. Availability is postcode-specific—run an address check at order.

NOW Broadband Company History: Timeline of Key Milestones

From launch as a combo service in 2016 to modern Wi‑Fi upgrades and pricing updates in 2025.

2016 – NOW Broadband launched (as Now TV Combo)

NOW Broadband debuts with contract-free broadband and TV package bundles, powered by Now TV entertainment services.

2018 – Rebranded to NOW Broadband

Simplified branding focuses exclusively on broadband offerings, dropping the TV combo identity.

2025 – Router Upgrade & WiFi Max

NOW switches to the Sky Broadband Hub by default and introduces optional WiFi Max (Wi‑Fi 6) upgrades, featuring Device Priority for smoother performance.

2025 – Summer Price Increase

A £3 monthly price hike kicks in for most plans mid-2025, exempting Full Fibre 100 and social tariff users; a 31-day cancellation window applies.

Why Choose NOW Broadband in 2025?

Full Fibre where available • Simple plans • Optional whole-home Wi-Fi

Full Fibre Where Available

NOW runs on Openreach FTTP in supported areas, with tiers up to around 300Mb download and about 40Mb upload on the top tier. Check your postcode to confirm availability and expected speeds.

Simple, Unlimited Plans

Broadband-only pricing with unlimited usage. Pick a rolling 30-day plan for flexibility or a 12-month contract for a lower monthly cost; support is provided by Sky’s advisor team.

Router and Wi-Fi Options

A NOW Broadband Hub (Wi-Fi 5) comes with your plan. In fibre areas, an optional whole-home Wi-Fi guarantee add-on may be available if you want stronger coverage in every room.

NOW Broadband Speed Test Results (2025)

Real-World Speeds for Every NOW Package

NOW’s lineup spans ADSL, FTTC and Full Fibre (FTTP). The figures below reflect typical performance in Openreach areas as of 27 August 2025. Latency values are indicative under good conditions.

PackagePing (typ.)DownloadUpload
Brilliant Broadband (ADSL)~20 ms11 Mb1 Mb
Fab Fibre (FTTC)~15 ms36 Mb10 Mb
Super Fibre (FTTC)~15 ms63 Mb19 Mb
Full Fibre 75 (FTTP)~12 ms75 Mb16 Mb
Full Fibre 100 (FTTP)~10 ms100 Mb18 Mb
Full Fibre 300 (FTTP)~8 ms300 Mb40 Mb

⚠️ Speeds vary by line quality, Wi-Fi setup, device capability and time of day. Always check the address-level estimate at checkout.

Why NOW Performance Is Consistent

Openreach Coverage

A growing FTTP footprint alongside FTTC gives broad availability; Full Fibre plans are sold via NOW Powered by Sky.

Included Wi-Fi Hardware

Full Fibre plans include the Sky Broadband Hub and come with Sky’s Wall to Wall WiFi Guarantee on eligible tiers.

Clear Plan Info

Upfront plan speeds and contract details are shown at checkout—review the contract summary before switching.

NOW Broadband performance illustration

IS NOW BROADBAND RELIABLE FOR STREAMING?

📺 In this NOW Broadband review, here is what we saw on fibre in 2025: stable HD or 4K, smooth play at busy times, and room for several devices at once. Ties’ tip: wire your TV or main box by Ethernet if you want the most consistent 4K sports.

✅ NETFLIX

Netflix ran cleanly in HD and 4K on NOW fibre. Evening family viewing stayed smooth, so film night does not freeze mid-show.

✅ BBC IPLAYER

HD and supported UHD streams stayed steady. Live news and sport were reliable even with other devices active in the home.

✅ DISNEY+

Disney+ delivered smooth 4K HDR. Several profiles could run at once without a drop in quality on NOW fibre connections.

✅ PRIME VIDEO

Prime Video started quickly and held steady in 4K HDR. Other downloads and smart devices carried on without slowing streams.

✅ NOW TV

Reliable HD for sport and entertainment. Add NOW Boost for sharper motion during live matches on NOW broadband.

✅ APPLE TV+

Apple TV+ stayed sharp in 4K HDR with seamless next episode play. Bitrates held up at busy times for Dolby Vision or Atmos shows.

✅ YOUTUBE

YouTube played reliably in HD and 4K, with fast starts. Creators also saw smooth uploads on NOW Full Fibre.

✅ ITVX

ITVX streamed in HD without fuss. Prime time viewing worked alongside browsing or gaming elsewhere in the house.

✅ ALL 4

All 4 played in stable HD and resumed quickly after adverts. Long sessions on several devices stayed consistent on NOW broadband.

Does NOW Broadband Work On Your Device?

Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Consoles, Fire TV, Roku & Smart TVs

Android Phones & Tablets

Connect Android devices over dual-band Wi-Fi or with an Ethernet adapter. NOW routers provide reliable coverage and low latency for smooth streaming and browsing.

iPhone & iPad (iOS/iPadOS)

Enjoy seamless connectivity with NOW Fibre plans, supporting 4K streaming and FaceTime HD without buffering or interruptions.

Windows PCs & Laptops

Work, stream, and download reliably. NOW broadband supports gaming and high-quality video calls with low latency over Wi-Fi or Ethernet connections.

Mac (macOS) & MacBooks

Experience fast and secure connectivity via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. NOW broadband is ideal for 4K streaming, iCloud sync, and stable video conferencing.

PlayStation (PS4/PS5)

NOW broadband provides consistent speeds for online gaming and 4K media apps. Ethernet connections are recommended for the best performance.

Xbox Series X|S & One

Smooth multiplayer and cloud gaming experiences with NOW. Wired connections provide ultra-low latency, while 5 GHz Wi-Fi works well for most living room setups.

Amazon Fire TV & Firestick

NOW Fibre offers quick app launches and reliable 4K streaming, even in busy homes with many devices. Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable streaming.

Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Android TV)

NOW broadband provides smooth UHD app performance. Add mesh Wi-Fi or Ethernet for better coverage in distant rooms.

Roku Players & Roku TV

NOW broadband ensures fast channel loading and stable HD or 4K playback. Use 5 GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet for best stability during peak times.

How Does NOW Broadband Compare to Other Providers?

Pricing • Fibre Coverage • Customer Care • Extra Features • Speed Reliability

NOW vs Competitors: Pricing & Value

NOW Broadband offers competitive pricing—starting at £20/month for Brilliant Broadband, £24/month for Fab Fibre, and up to ~£35/month for Full Fibre 900. No mid-contract price hikes, no credit checks, and a £20/month social tariff (NOW Broadband Basics) enhance affordability, though promotional extras are minimal.

Fibre Coverage

NOW leverages Openreach to reach ~98% of UK homes with ADSL/FTTC and ~60% with FTTP. Full Fibre plans up to 900 Mbps match many competitors, but availability varies by postcode.

Customer Support & Reputation

NOW offers UK-based support and no credit checks for accessibility. Customer satisfaction is moderate (5/10 in polls), with mixed feedback on reliability and support responsiveness.

Extra Features & Flexibility

Contracts include no-contract (30-day rolling) or 24-month terms. Includes the Sky Broadband Hub with optional WiFi Max (Wi-Fi 6) upgrade for £6/month. NOW TV memberships add streaming perks, but bundled extras are fewer than premium providers.

Speed Reliability

Speeds from 11 Mbps to 900 Mbps are consistent for streaming, gaming, and work. Full Fibre plans (up to 900 Mbps) offer reliable performance, though power users may prefer competitors with higher peak speeds.

NOW Broadband Network Coverage & Availability

Where it’s available • Real-world speeds • The kit you get

Openreach-Based Coverage

NOW delivers Full Fibre via Openreach. NOW’s own checker shows Full Fibre available to roughly half of UK homes today, and coverage grows as Openreach builds. Always run a postcode check before you compare plans.

Speed Tiers & Uploads

Typical options include Full Fibre 100 (~100/18 Mb/s) and Full Fibre 300 (~300/40 Mb/s). Uploads are lower than downloads, so these are not symmetric tiers.

Router & Whole-Home Wi-Fi

A NOW Broadband Hub (Wi-Fi 5) comes with your plan. In many Full Fibre areas, you can add a Wall-to-Wall WiFi Guarantee if you want coverage in every room.

📍 NOW Broadband Availability in Popular UK Cities

Explore NOW coverage in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool & Leeds

London

Openreach-based. Many boroughs have FTTP supporting NOW Full Fibre 100 (~100/18) and 300 (~300/40). Where FTTP isn’t live, FTTC (around 36–63 Mb/s) is typical. Always check your exact postcode.

Birmingham

FTTP across many districts enables NOW Full Fibre 100/300. Non-FTTP addresses usually get FTTC Fab (~36/10) or Super (~63/19).

Manchester

Strong Openreach footprint with growing FTTP. Expect NOW Full Fibre 100/300 where available; otherwise FTTC tiers apply. Use the address checker for certainty.

Glasgow

FTTP in many neighbourhoods; FTTC elsewhere. NOW sells Full Fibre 100/300 on FTTP, with FTTC options where fibre hasn’t reached yet.

Liverpool

Numerous FTTP postcodes support NOW Full Fibre 100/300. FTTC (about 36–63 Mb/s) remains the standby in non-FTTP areas.

Leeds

Availability is postcode-led: FTTP addresses can order NOW Full Fibre 100/300; FTTC fills the gaps. Check your address for the exact options.

How Does NOW Broadband Compare to Other Providers?

Pricing • Fibre Coverage • Customer Care • Extras • Speed

Pricing & Value

Full Fibre 100 is commonly listed around £25/m and Full Fibre 300 around £30/m on 24-month terms (the site states prices may change during the contract). A £20/m social tariff (NOW Broadband Basics, ~36Mb) is available for eligible customers. FTTC prices vary by postcode and promo.

Coverage

NOW runs on Openreach. FTTC covers most homes; Openreach FTTP passes roughly 55% of UK premises (May 2025), while UK full-fibre coverage across all networks is higher (~78%). NOW Full Fibre currently offers 75/100/300Mb (no 900Mb tier).

Support & Checks

Full Fibre orders complete on Sky.com and are supported by Sky advisors. FTTC deals are widely reported as no credit check; Full Fibre may follow Sky’s process. Note: NOW applied a £3 rise to certain FTTC plans in July 2025.

Extras & Flexibility

Full Fibre includes the Sky Broadband Hub and the Wall to Wall WiFi Guarantee on eligible tiers; contracts shown are typically 24 months. FTTC offers 12-month Saver or 30-day rolling. Add NOW Memberships (TV) if you want entertainment.

Speed & Reliability

Expect FTTC Fab ~36/10Mb and Super ~63/19Mb. Full Fibre options are 75/100/300Mb with uploads around ~16/18/40Mb. Your results depend on local network and home Wi-Fi setup.

Is NOW Broadband Good for Gamers in 2025?

Low latency on FTTP • Stable UK/EU play • Strong (not symmetric) uploads

LOW-LATENCY FIBRE

Openreach Full Fibre reduces last-mile delay and jitter versus FTTC/ADSL. For the most consistent aim and movement, wire consoles/PCs via Ethernet and limit background uploads during matches.

STABLE UK/EU PLAY

FTTP backhaul supports smooth sessions to regional servers when your home setup is optimised (Ethernet, QoS/traffic management, clear Wi-Fi channel if used).

UPLOADS FOR STREAMING

NOW’s Full Fibre tiers are typically 75–300 Mb/s. Estimated uploads are about 16–40 Mb/s (not symmetric), which is plenty for 1080p livestreams, instant clip posts and cloud backups while you play.

NOW Broadband Analysis by Ties

INITIALIZING...
Ties, the cheap broadband expert, the tool's mascot.
Mascot Dialogue from Ties, the cheap broadband expert

Is NOW Broadband Good for Torrenting in 2025?

Fibre Speeds • Unlimited Usage • Smart Setup • Legal, Responsible P2P Only

FIBRE SPEEDS FOR P2P

NOW Broadband (via Sky) provides high-throughput and low-latency fibre connections—excellent for managing multi-gigabyte torrent downloads and consistent seeding. For best results, use a wired Gigabit-Ethernet link.

UNLIMITED USAGE WITH CAVEATS

NOW Broadband’s home plans are billed as unlimited, making them suitable for P2P traffic. That said, fair usage rules and copyright enforcement (from ISPs or rights holders) still apply, so stay informed.

SETUP & SAFETY TIPS

Use updated, trustworthy torrent clients and maintain good router and DNS hygiene. Even for legal torrenting, using a VPN with a kill switch helps encrypt traffic and mask your IP to guard privacy.

⚠️ A Note from Ties, the Broadband Expert: FindCheapBroadband does not endorse illegal file-sharing. Always share and download content legally and respect copyright.

How Secure Is NOW Broadband?

WPA2/WPA3 • Auto Updates • Router Firewall • Parental Controls • Device-level DNS

Wi-Fi Security on Supplied Hubs

Most NOW plans include a Sky Broadband Hub using WPA2. If you add WiFi Max, you’ll receive the Sky Max Hub (Wi-Fi 6) with WPA3 support on compatible devices for stronger protection.

Automatic Updates & Firewall

Sky-supplied hubs update firmware automatically. You can also adjust the built-in firewall level (e.g., Typical or Maximum), manage UPnP and set port-forwarding rules from the admin page.

Parental Controls

Broadband Buddy (legacy NOW) and Sky Broadband Shield (NOW powered by Sky) provide network-level filtering, block/allow lists and anti-malware/phishing protection. Controls are managed via your NOW/Sky account or the My Sky app.

UK GDPR & Privacy

Customer data is handled under UK GDPR and Ofcom requirements for telecoms. Check the provider’s privacy policy for the latest usage and retention details.

Secure DNS on Devices

Enable DNS over HTTPS (DoH) or DNS over TLS (DoT) on supported browsers and operating systems for encrypted lookups—useful on public Wi-Fi.

Guest Wi-Fi & Good Access Hygiene

Create a guest network to keep visitors separate, use strong unique passwords, disable unneeded remote access, and review connected devices regularly.

What Independent Reviews or Accreditations Has NOW Broadband Received?

ADR Scheme • Ofcom Codes & Measures • Independent Testing Resources

ADR Membership (CISAS)

If your complaint isn’t resolved through NOW’s process, you can escalate to the CISAS adjudication scheme. (Ofcom has confirmed ADR escalation will move from 8 to 6 weeks from April 2026.)

Ofcom Automatic Compensation

As a Sky brand, NOW participates in Ofcom’s Automatic Compensation Code for missed appointments, delayed activation and qualifying outages—giving customers clearer redress when things go wrong.

Ofcom 2025 Metrics

Ofcom’s 2025 report shows NOW Broadband: 65 complaints per 100k (highest) vs Sky: 21 (fewest). On the plus side, NOW, Sky and TalkTalk delivered 90%+ orders on time.

Independent Reviews & Speed Checks

Third-party resources like ThinkBroadband and ISPreview aggregate user reviews and performance snapshots. Note that NOW Broadband is now Powered by Sky and sells Full Fibre (FTTP) plans—availability varies by address.

TIES’ FUN NOW BROADBAND FACT

NOW Broadband is powered by Sky and includes a free Sky Broadband Hub router with every package

BUY NOW BROADBAND
Ties, the Broadband Expert

Does NOW Broadband Track or Log Your Browsing?

NOW Broadband Privacy in 2025: No Sale of Browsing Data, UK Standards, Easy Controls

No Sale of Browsing History

NOW Broadband (via Sky UK Limited) does not sell or share your personal browsing history. Data is collected only to deliver services, prevent abuse, and comply with legal obligations.

UK Data Protection Compliance

NOW operates under the UK Data Protection Act and GDPR, ensuring secure handling of personal data. Users have rights to access, correct, request deletion, or portability of their data.

Privacy Controls & Transparency

Customers can manage privacy preferences—including cookies, tracking, and marketing choices—via the Sky Privacy Centre and NOW’s Privacy & Cookies Notice.

What Data Does NOW Broadband Store?

NOW Privacy Basics: What’s Processed, Protected, and Optional

Here’s a clear overview of the information NOW Broadband processes to run your service, secure networks, and meet legal duties. Some security features are optional and only apply if activated. As Ties the Broadband Expert, I recommend reviewing your Sky Broadband Hub privacy and safety settings during setup.

NOW Broadband Data Handling Table

Data TypeHandling Status
IP AddressesProcessed for service delivery, security, and fraud prevention; retained as needed for operations and compliance.
Browsing HistoryNot sold or monetized. Optional parental controls or DNS filters may block risky domains when enabled.
TimestampsConnection metadata stored for diagnostics, service quality, and legal obligations.
Network TrafficContent not recorded. Optional security features can block known malicious domains when activated.
User’s Email AddressStored securely for account access and service notifications; encrypted in transit and at rest.
User’s PasswordStored as hashed credentials within NOW’s account systems; never saved in plaintext.
Payment DataProcessed by NOW or billing partners; kept securely under financial regulations and PCI-compliant practices.
Device InformationDevice names and MACs visible in the Sky Broadband Hub or app for management; limited use for troubleshooting.
Location/AddressService and installation address retained to provision broadband and support appointments; no GPS tracking.
Connection LogsUsed for fault diagnosis, capacity planning, and compliance; not used for marketing; not sold.

Who Owns NOW Broadband and Can You Trust Them?

Sky & Comcast Backing • Ofcom Regulation • UK Operations • Customer Reviews

Part of Sky and Comcast

NOW Broadband is run by Sky UK Limited, part of Comcast Corporation, a global media and tech giant. As Ties the Broadband Expert, I see this as a sign of strong investment in reliable networks.

UK-Based and Ofcom Regulated

Sky UK Limited, operating NOW Broadband, is regulated by Ofcom and registered in England and Wales (company number 02906991). UK oversight ensures fair billing and consumer protections.

Launched in 2013, Nationwide Reach

Launched in 2013, NOW Broadband provides ADSL/FTTC to ~98% of UK homes and FTTP to ~60% via Openreach. Plans range from 11 Mbps to 900 Mbps. Always check your postcode for availability.

Thousands of Public Reviews

NOW has thousands of reviews on Trustpilot and other platforms, with moderate scores (5/10 in polls). Customers value contract flexibility, but some report issues with reliability or support. Check recent reviews for your area.

NOW Broadband Security & Data Protection

Incident history • UK GDPR compliance • Practical safety tools

Has NOW Broadband Ever Had a Data Breach?

As of 27 August 2025, there’s no public record of a mass compromise of NOW customer databases. Two relevant footnotes: (1) a DNS-rebinding flaw affecting Sky hubs was disclosed in 2021 and patched; (2) in 2010, a third-party leak at ACS:Law exposed details of some Sky Broadband customers. If a notifiable breach occurred, Sky/NOW would be required to notify the ICO and, where high-risk, affected individuals under UK GDPR.

Privacy, Compliance & Registration

NOW operates as a trading name of Sky UK Limited (listed on the ICO register). The privacy notice covers how data is used, shared with suppliers under appropriate safeguards (e.g., Standard Contractual Clauses), international transfers, and your data rights. Specific internal control details (like encryption-at-rest specs) aren’t published publicly.

Security Features for Customers

Wi-Fi security: NOW-supplied hubs generally use WPA2. WPA3 is available on Sky’s Max/Gigafast+ hubs and may be offered to some NOW customers via the WiFi Max add-on.
Parental controls: Broadband Buddy lets you set age ratings and block categories network-wide.
DNS & advanced settings: Standard NOW hubs typically don’t expose router-level DNS override; set DNS per device or use your own router (bridge/modem mode supported).
Updates: NOW has advised some owners of older hubs that security updates would cease by 2025—consider upgrading hardware if contacted.

NOW Broadband Security & Data Protection

Router Support Updates • Historical Vulnerabilities • Practical Safety Steps

Router Support Change (31 July 2025)

Certain older NOW hubs (e.g., NOW Hub Two) won’t be supported after 31 July 2025. If an affected hub develops a fault after that date, NOW won’t replace it—and you can leave immediately without termination fees. NOW also recommends changing the hub’s admin password to reduce risk.

Historical Router Vulnerability (Sky, 2021)

In 2021, a DNS rebinding flaw impacted ~6 million Sky routers; rolling out fixes to all customers reportedly took about 17 months. It highlighted why changing default admin credentials and keeping routers updated matters.

Customer Safety Steps

Use strong, unique passwords for Wi-Fi and admin; keep automatic firmware updates on; set the firewall to a stricter level if you need tighter controls; turn on parental controls (Broadband Buddy on legacy NOW or Sky Broadband Shield on NOW Powered by Sky); and if you add WiFi Max (Sky Max Hub), enable WPA3 on compatible devices.

NOW Broadband Complaints & Public Perception

What Do Public and Regulatory Reports Say?

Ofcom Complaint Levels

Ofcom’s quarterly reports have placed NOW among the most complained-about providers in some recent periods (for example, Q4 2024). Positions change quarter-to-quarter, but NOW has featured prominently in Ofcom’s tables at times.

Common Complaint Causes

Typical issues cited include handling of complaints, service faults and provisioning/activation delays—mirroring the categories Ofcom tracks across the industry.

Regulation & Escalation

NOW is regulated by Ofcom and covered by an Ofcom-approved ADR scheme (CISAS). If your complaint isn’t resolved after eight weeks—or you receive a deadlock letter—you can go to ADR for a free, independent review. Ofcom has confirmed ADR access will be accelerated to six weeks for complaints raised on or after 8 April 2026.

NOW Broadband Media Coverage & Reputation

How the Media, Public, and NOW Itself Shape Its Reputation

Media Recognition

UK consumer and tech outlets often cite NOW Broadband as one of the most affordable fibre options, regularly mentioned in broadband deal features for its Full Fibre 75 and 300 packages. It is recognised for combining Sky-backed reliability with lower-cost pricing.

Public Reputation

Customers highlight its value for money and straightforward setup. However, Ofcom complaint statistics indicate higher than average issues with service compared to larger rivals, particularly around customer support responsiveness.

NOW’s Own Media Branding

NOW positions itself as Sky’s low-cost, flexible broadband brand. Its messaging focuses on clear pricing, contract flexibility, and broadband-only deals without extras, appealing to customers who want simplicity over bundles.

NOW Broadband Environmental & Sustainability Efforts

Insights on Ethics, Infrastructure, and Equipment Stewardship

Ethical & Environmental Ratings

In independent ethical rankings, NOW (part of Sky/Comcast) scores acceptably for environmental, fossil fuel, and animal welfare categories—but falls short in human rights and political donations, earning a below-benchmark overall rating.

Full-Fibre Energy Efficiency

Full-fibre broadband is more energy efficient than copper networks: fiber uses less power to operate and maintain, reduces the need for multiple powered cabinets, and contributes to lower carbon emissions across the network lifecycle.

Equipment Reuse and Recycling

The telecom industry is increasingly embracing circular models—refurbishing, reselling, or recycling retired hardware—to accelerate network upgrades, recoup value, and curb e-waste. These practices support more sustainable operations overall.

Does NOW Broadband Include Ad Blocking & Online Threat Protection?

Added Security via the Sky Broadband Hub App, With Optional Upgrades

ROUTER-LEVEL PROTECTION

NOW’s Sky Broadband Hub includes automatic firmware updates and a built-in firewall. Ad blocking and advanced threat protection are not included by default but can be added with third-party tools or browser extensions.

PARENTAL CONTROLS

Basic parental controls in the Sky Broadband Hub app allow content filtering and internet scheduling. For advanced filtering, use third-party software. Ties the Broadband Expert tip: label devices in the app for easier monitoring.

SECURE DNS & SAFE BROWSING

NOW does not offer ISP-wide ad blocking. Enable DNS over HTTPS or DNS over TLS on individual devices for safer browsing and reduced phishing risks. These tools complement but do not replace antivirus software.

Does NOW Broadband Offer a Static IP Address?

Static vs dynamic on NOW • When port forwarding works • Your best alternatives

WHAT IS A STATIC IP?

A static IP keeps the same public address. It’s handy for remote desktop, self-hosted services, CCTV gateways, or IP allow-lists. Most households are fine on a dynamic IP, especially with modern tools that don’t need a fixed address.

WHAT YOU CAN (AND CAN’T) DO ON NOW

No static IPv4 on NOW residential. Your address is dynamic.
Port forwarding: Works on the NOW Hub when your line has a public IPv4. If your connection is placed behind CGNAT/IPv4 sharing, inbound ports won’t reach your home network.
Need a fixed IP? Choose a business-grade line (e.g., Sky Business with static IP), or use secure workarounds such as overlay VPNs (e.g., Tailscale/ZeroTier), Cloudflare Tunnel, or a VPS relay.

How Do I Keep My Devices Secure With NOW Broadband?

Router Firewall • WPA2/WPA3 • Broadband Buddy or Sky Broadband Shield • Your Choice of Antivirus

WHAT SECURITY DO I GET?

On most plans you’ll get a Sky-supplied hub with a built-in firewall and automatic firmware updates. Standard Sky Broadband Hubs use WPA2; add WiFi Max to receive the Sky Max Hub (Wi-Fi 6) with WPA3 on compatible devices. Full Fibre orders are NOW Powered by Sky and use Sky Broadband Shield for network-level filtering; legacy NOW FTTC accounts use Broadband Buddy.

WHERE ARE THE CONTROLS?

Full Fibre (Powered by Sky): Manage safety settings with Sky Broadband Shield in the My Sky app / Sky account.
Legacy NOW FTTC: Manage Broadband Buddy in your NOW account (age ratings, malware/phishing and category blocks).

SUPPORTED DEVICES & SECURITY APPS

Popular endpoint security works on Windows, macOS and Android. iPhone/iPad lean on iOS’s built-in protections plus safe-browsing from reputable apps. Buy licences directly from your chosen vendor; NOW doesn’t bundle antivirus.

SETUP CHECKLIST (5 MINUTES)

1) Log in to your hub and confirm WPA2 (or WPA3 if you have Sky Max Hub).
2) Keep automatic updates on and set the firewall to your preferred strength.
3) Create a Guest Wi-Fi for visitors and use unique admin/Wi-Fi passwords.
4) Turn on Sky Broadband Shield or Broadband Buddy and pick an age rating.
5) Enable device updates and install a reputable security suite where needed.

ALREADY PROTECTED?

You can keep your existing antivirus with NOW Broadband. Avoid running more than one real-time AV at once, and align Broadband Buddy / Sky Broadband Shield settings with any app-based filters.

Does NOW Broadband Use Smart Traffic Routing?

A Straightforward Approach: Reliability Over Complexity

DOES NOW USE TRAFFIC SHAPING?

NOW does not advertise aggressive traffic shaping on standard residential FTTP or FTTC plans. Streaming, gaming, and video calls are treated similarly, with network protection measures only applied for abuse or incidents. Ties the Broadband Expert view: this neutrality ensures predictable day-to-day performance.

FOCUS ON STABILITY

NOW relies on Openreach’s backhaul and peering, with ongoing capacity upgrades to maintain steady peak-time speeds and low jitter. No complex user-side routing tweaks are needed, though performance depends on local infrastructure and Wi-Fi setup.

What Router Does NOW Broadband Supply?

Accurate 2025 Hardware Details

What You Get in 2025

New NOW Broadband customers receive the Sky Broadband Hub (SR203). Key specs include dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), four Gigabit Ethernet ports, WPA2-PSK (AES) wireless security and a built-in firewall. Settings are managed via the hub’s web page (e.g. 192.168.0.1), and firmware updates are delivered automatically. If you want whole-home coverage guarantees or Wi-Fi 6, that’s part of Sky’s separate WiFi Max/Max Hub add-on rather than the standard NOW router; some Full Fibre addresses can add a Wall-to-Wall WiFi coverage option.

What Is Guest Wi-Fi on NOW Broadband Routers?

Keep Your Main Network Private While Sharing Internet Access

WHAT IS GUEST WI-FI?

NOW’s Sky Broadband Hub (or WiFi Max upgrade) supports a guest network with a separate SSID for visitors. Your main network stays isolated, keeping laptops, phones, and smart home devices hidden. As Ties the Broadband Expert, I suggest using a unique guest password and enabling time limits or device restrictions if supported.

WHEN TO USE IT

Activate Guest Wi-Fi for friends, family, or contractors needing internet, or for untrusted IoT devices. It ensures your work laptop, personal devices, and shared resources like printers remain secure and private.

Who Should Buy NOW Broadband?

Matching NOW Packages to Everyday Needs

Budget-Conscious Families

Affordable pricing and unlimited broadband make NOW attractive for families who want stable evening speeds and built-in parental controls without paying a premium. Broadband Buddy helps manage children’s browsing.

Renters and Short-Term Tenants

With rolling monthly options, NOW suits renters, students, and people moving often. You avoid long tie-ins, making it a practical choice for flexible living situations.

Light Internet Users

If you mostly browse, email, or shop online, NOW’s entry-level speeds are more than enough. It’s designed for simple, affordable connectivity rather than power users.

Entertainment Lovers

NOW Broadband pairs well with NOW TV passes, keeping your broadband and streaming under one brand. Perfect for those who want Sky shows, films, or sports without a Sky contract.

People Who Want a Simple Setup

NOW is intentionally no-frills: one router, unlimited data, basic online safety, and straightforward bills. It’s a great option if you just want broadband that works without add-on complexity.

Who Shouldn’t Choose NOW Broadband?

Situations Where Another Provider May Suit You Better

Ultra-Budget Shoppers

While cheap, NOW isn’t always the absolute rock-bottom price. ISPs like TalkTalk or Plusnet sometimes undercut it with long-term fixed contracts.

Addresses Without Fibre

NOW relies on Openreach’s fibre footprint. If your address is limited to basic copper lines or lacks FTTC/FTTP, you may get better results with 4G/5G home broadband or Virgin Media cable.

Bundle Seekers

NOW sells broadband only, with optional NOW TV passes. If you want premium channel bundles or mobile add-ons on the same bill, Sky, BT, or Virgin Media will serve you better.

Competitive Gamers

NOW’s performance is steady for everyday gaming, but it doesn’t guarantee the ultra-low ping pro gamers want. A gamer-specialist ISP or symmetric fibre plan may be more suitable.

Business Users Needing 24/7 Support

Support hours are limited and there’s no static IP or SLA included. If your work depends on guaranteed uptime and round-the-clock service, choose a business-grade package instead.

Contract Options and Flexibility

Rolling Monthly or Fixed Term — Choose What Fits Your Home

Rolling Monthly Broadband

Need short-term flexibility? NOW’s rolling monthly plan runs on a 30-day notice period. It costs more each month than fixed contracts but is perfect for renters, students, or anyone unsure how long they’ll stay.

Fixed Contracts and Exit Fees

Fixed 12- or 24-month contracts come with cheaper monthly rates, making them better value for stable households. Be aware that cancelling early usually triggers an exit fee, so they suit customers happy to commit long term.

Availability Restrictions

How Coverage Limits Affect Customers

NOW Broadband Coverage

Coverage TypeNOW (Openreach)UK (Ofcom, Jan 2025)
Full Fibre (FTTP)≈51% of homes74% of homes
Superfast (≥30 Mb/s)≈98% of premises≈98% of premises
Rural FTTPLimited, expandingImproving, still behind urban

NOW’s fastest widely sold tiers are Full Fibre 100 (~100/18 Mb/s) and Full Fibre 300 (~300/40 Mb/s). If FTTP isn’t live at your address, you’ll typically see FTTC options like Fab (~36/10) or Super (~63/19) until fibre builds reach your street.

NOW Broadband App: Manage Your Broadband on the Go

The NOW and Sky apps let you handle billing, parental controls, and router management from your phone.

Android App Features

On Android, the NOW and Sky apps allow you to check bills, update payment details, and manage Broadband Buddy parental controls. You can also access basic account services and troubleshoot connectivity.

iOS App Features

iPhone users can use the same apps to monitor usage, pay bills, manage parental controls, and adjust broadband settings. Notifications keep you updated on account activity.

Router & Wi-Fi Management

The Sky Hub app helps with router setup, Wi-Fi password changes, device checks, and signal optimisation. It supports troubleshooting to improve home coverage and stability.

Can You Use NOW Broadband on Multiple Devices?

Keep Your Entire Home Online with One NOW Broadband Account

CONNECT MULTIPLE DEVICES

NOW Broadband supports smartphones, laptops, tablets and TVs at once. Real-world performance depends on your package (ADSL/Fibre/Full Fibre), Wi-Fi conditions and how far you are from the hub.

ONE ACCOUNT COVERS YOUR HOME

A single account serves everyone in the property. Need stronger coverage? Add WiFi Max for whole-home Wi-Fi tools and a Wi-Fi 6 hub, useful in larger homes.

SMARTPHONE SUPPORT

Android and iPhone/iPad connect easily for streaming, browsing and calls. WiFi Max unlocks extra management (e.g., device priority) through the My Sky app.

COMPUTERS & LAPTOPS

Windows, macOS and Linux work out of the box. Use Ethernet for gaming rigs, desktops and consoles if you want the most consistent throughput and latency.

SMART TV COMPATIBILITY

Smart TVs and streaming sticks (Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku) are supported. Place the hub centrally or cable the TV area for the smoothest 4K streams.

What Paid Extras and Bundles Does NOW Broadband Offer?

Elevate Your Broadband with NOW’s Premium Add-Ons

NOW Entertainment Membership

Standard £9.99/m (cancel anytime) or Saver from £6.99/m on a minimum term. Includes ads unless you add Boost/Ultra Boost.

NOW Sports Membership

Watch all 12 Sky Sports channels. Standard £34.99/m, £14.99 Day Membership, or Sports Saver around £28/m (12-month min term).

WiFi Max Upgrade

Add Wi-Fi 6 with the Sky Max Hub and whole-home coverage for £6/m. Optional Plume pods extend coverage in tricky spots.

Boost & Ultra Boost

Boost £6/m: Full HD (1080p), Dolby 5.1, 2 devices, ad-free on on-demand.
Ultra Boost £9/m: 4K UHD, Dolby Atmos, 3 devices. (Live sports still include ads.)

Call Plan Add-ons

Evening & Weekend calls £8/m. Anytime calls £17/m. Both include UK landlines and mobiles.

NOW Cinema Membership

Standard £9.99/m (cancel anytime) or Saver from £6.99/m on a minimum term. Add Boost/Ultra Boost for higher quality and extra streams.

Does NOW Broadband Offer Business Broadband?

Residential Only — Choose a Business ISP if You Need SLAs or Static IP

Home-Focused Service

NOW Broadband is marketed for households and orders are fulfilled via Sky (“Powered by Sky”). Parental controls are available through Broadband Buddy in your NOW account. It doesn’t offer business-grade extras such as static IPv4 addresses, formal SLAs, or leased lines. If your work requires those, pick a dedicated business provider like Sky Business or BT Business, which advertise static IP options, priority fault repair and SLAs.

NOW Broadband vs Budget Providers – Is It Worth Paying More?

Why Many Homes Choose NOW Over the Cheapest Alternatives

WHY CHOOSE NOW BROADBAND?

NOW strikes a balance between low cost and practical features. All plans include unlimited usage, Broadband Buddy parental controls, and the Sky Broadband Hub for secure, reliable Wi-Fi. Customers can pick between 30-day rolling flexibility or cheaper fixed terms, making it appealing to both renters and long-stay households.

LIMITATIONS OF BUDGET PROVIDERS

The lowest-priced ISPs often cut corners with basic routers, limited support, or tighter network management. That can mean slower speeds at busy times, patchy Wi-Fi, and less reliable service. For homes streaming in 4K, gaming online, or working remotely, these compromises can be noticeable every day.

How to Set Up NOW Broadband: Step-by-Step Guide

A Simple Walkthrough to Get Online Fast

Unbox Your Sky Broadband Hub

Once your router arrives—usually within a couple of weeks after signing up—open the box and find your Sky Broadband Hub along with the power cable and any included setup info.

Connect & Power On Your Hub

Plug the grey cable from your Hub into the master phone socket (or fibre connection) and then plug the Hub into a power source. Allow around 20 minutes for the hub to configure itself and establish connection.

Connect Devices to Your Wi-Fi

Retrieve the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password from the bottom of the Hub or the included card. Enter these on your devices to connect—then you’re good to go.

Does NOW Broadband Offer Free Installation?

NOW Broadband Installation Fees Explained

Installation and Activation Fees

Current Full Fibre deals show £0 activation and £0 delivery on 24-month plans. Final fees (if any) are confirmed during checkout on Sky.com, where NOW completes orders.

Promotions and Waivers

Offers change through the year. Standard activations are often £0 on selected Full Fibre packages; non-standard set-ups can cost extra and will be shown in your order summary for your address.

Engineer Visits

Whether an engineer is needed depends on your property (for example, if a fibre ONT must be installed). You’ll be told during the order journey if a visit is required.

How Expensive Is NOW Broadband in 2025?

Breaking Down Monthly Costs and Value for Money

NOW Broadband Monthly Costs

Full Fibre (Powered by Sky): 24-month term, typically £23 (FF75), £25 (FF100) or £30 (FF300) with £0 activation and £0 delivery. The Sky Broadband Hub is included.
FTTC (legacy NOW ‘Superfast/Super Fibre’): 12-month Saver or 30-day rolling. Rolling plans usually carry an upfront setup fee (commonly ~£60). Exact pricing is postcode-dependent.

Is NOW Broadband Worth the Price?

For most homes, Full Fibre 75/100/300 offers reliable speeds at low prices and simple setup. If you need higher than 300Mb, compare providers with 500Mb–900Mb tiers. Always check your postcode for the latest offers, terms and any setup fees on rolling contracts.

NOW Broadband Speed Guarantee: What’s Included

Consistent Speeds With NOW’s Minimum Speed Promise

NOW MINIMUM PERFORMANCE

When you sign up, NOW provides a personalised minimum download speed for your address. If, after activation, your line speed stays below that minimum (for 3 consecutive days) and the issue isn’t fixed within 30 days of you reporting it and following diagnostics (including any in-home setup changes, engineer visit, or trying a replacement hub), you can either move to an available lower-speed product or cancel without early termination charges on eligible services. For accurate checks, run wired tests (Ethernet direct to the hub/ONT), as Wi-Fi varies by device and home setup.

Does NOW Broadband Require a Landline?

FTTP is broadband-only • Legacy phone service for existing users

Full Fibre (FTTP): No Landline Required

On NOW Powered by Sky Full Fibre, there’s no traditional landline or phone-number porting — it’s a broadband-only service delivered over fibre (ONT). If you want a home number, use mobile or a third-party VoIP service.

Legacy FTTC/ADSL: Line & Call Plans

Older NOW “Broadband & Calls” packages included a phone line with Pay As You Use calls and optional add-ons (Evening & Weekend ~£8/m, Anytime ~£17/m). These plans remain for existing customers but are not available to new sign-ups.

If FTTP Isn’t Available

NOW’s current offers focus on Full Fibre. If your address doesn’t have FTTP yet, check availability via the order journey. You may need to choose another provider (e.g., Sky) for FTTC or consider 4G/5G home broadband until fibre arrives.

What Are the Alternatives to NOW Broadband?

Top 3 Alternatives to NOW Broadband in 2025

BT Broadband

BT offers wide-reaching Full Fibre coverage, plus extras like Complete Wi-Fi guarantees and Hybrid Connect 4G backup. It’s a strong choice if you want reliable speeds, premium support, and the option to bundle with BT TV or mobile.

Sky Broadband

Sky combines competitive fibre pricing with seamless integration into Sky TV and mobile bundles. Popular with families who want one provider for broadband and entertainment, with flexible package options depending on your household’s needs.

Virgin Media Broadband

Virgin Media delivers ultrafast speeds up to and beyond 1 Gbps across its cable network. It’s ideal for heavy streamers, gamers, and large households, with strong TV and landline bundle options if you want everything in one package.

NOW Broadband vs Sky Broadband: Which Is Better for You?

Price • Speeds & Availability • Contracts • Complaints

Price & Value

NOW Broadband Powered by Sky typically undercuts Sky by a few pounds on equivalent FTTP tiers. Example (Aug 2025): NOW Full Fibre 100 is listed at ~£25/m while Sky Full Fibre 100 is ~£26/m. Exact offers change, so check live pricing at your address.

Speeds & Availability

NOW’s current range is FTTP 75/100/300 Mb. Sky’s range is wider: FTTC 35/61 Mb, FTTP 75/100/150/300/500/900 Mb, plus limited 2.5–5 Gbps tiers in select areas. Both use Openreach coverage—availability is postcode-dependent.

Contracts & Ordering

New NOW Full Fibre plans are sold as “NOW Powered by Sky” with 24-month terms and checkout completed on Sky.com. Older NOW ADSL/FTTC (Brilliant/Fab/Super Fibre) packages are no longer sold to new customers. Because ordering runs through Sky, standard Sky sign-up processes—including credit checks—may apply.

Customer Service & Complaints

Ofcom’s latest annual figures (full-year 2024) show Sky with the fewest broadband complaints at 21 per 100,000 customers, and NOW among the most complained-about at 65 per 100,000. That pattern continues in Ofcom’s 2025 quarterly updates.

NOW Broadband vs BT Broadband: Which Is Right for You?

NOW vs BT: Price, Speeds, Extras, and Flexibility

Price and Contract Flexibility

NOW Broadband typically beats BT on price—deals often start cheaper for part or full fibre, with fewer hidden costs and easy upgrades or add-ons available. It also offers shorter or rolling contract options without credit checks, making it ideal if you want flexibility. BT, by contrast, tends to be more expensive but includes long-term options with extra support features and predictable pricing.

Speed and Network Resilience

BT provides substantially faster speed tiers—from full fibre plans up to 900 Mbps and beyond—often paired with Hybrid Connect (4G backup) for added reliability. NOW's speeds are more modest—typically up to 300 Mbps in the best cases—and lack built-in resilience features, meaning BT may offer better performance for demanding users.

Customer Service and Added Benefits

NOW is part of Sky’s infrastructure, so customer experiences can vary—some users find them straightforward, others report issues with support. BT offers more established customer support, wide Full Fibre availability, and options like a Wi-Fi guarantee or enhanced reliability through Hybrid Connect, which can be valuable for working households or larger homes.

NOW Broadband vs Virgin Media: Which Is Right for You?

NOW vs Virgin Media: Speeds, Pricing, Extras, and Satisfaction

Speed and Performance

Virgin Media delivers dramatically faster speeds compared to NOW—offering basic tiers from around 132 Mbps up to 1.13 Gbps (Gig1), and in some areas speeds may reach 2 Gbps. NOW caps at around 300 Mbps on its full-fibre plans. For users prioritising ultra-high speeds, gaming, or 4K streaming across many devices, Virgin Media is the clear choice.

Price and Contract Structure

NOW Broadband generally starts at lower monthly prices and offers flexible contract options—rolling, monthly, or short-term plans—often without credit checks. Virgin Media’s ultra-fast offerings come with higher pricing and typically require fixed-term contracts, making NOW more appealing if flexibility is key.

Extras and Bundle Options

Virgin Media has a wide array of bundle packages, combining broadband with TV (including entertainment channels, streaming options) and mobile perks like Volt. Promotions sometimes include perks such as TV offers or bill credits. NOW focuses on a streamlined broadband-only service, keeping things simple without additional extras.

Customer Satisfaction

Both NOW and Virgin Media tend to score around 60% in customer satisfaction surveys, particularly when it comes to support and value. However, Virgin’s superior speed performance often earns more positive feedback from heavy users such as gamers and streamers.

How many customers does NOW Broadband have in 2025?

NOW’s footprint and how it sits in the UK market

NOW Broadband customer numbers

NOW doesn’t release a standalone subscriber figure. It’s powered by Sky, and NOW Broadband customers are counted within Sky’s broadband totals. Recent press puts Sky’s UK broadband base at about 5.7 million, but no official split for NOW is published.

Context in the UK market

The UK fixed-broadband market has roughly 29 million lines in total. Large providers such as BT, Sky, Virgin Media and TalkTalk each serve millions of customers. As Sky’s value-focused sub-brand, NOW prioritises simple plans and flexible terms over publishing separate scale metrics.

NOW Broadband Awards and Industry Recognition

Consumer Polls • Industry Awards • Our 2025 Verdict

MoneySavingExpert Polls

MSE’s polling shows mixed feedback for NOW’s customer service. In the July 2024 snapshot, about a third of NOW voters rated service “great” and roughly a third “poor”, indicating a split view among respondents.

Uswitch Telecoms Awards 2025

The 2025 Uswitch awards highlighted providers such as Plusnet (multiple wins) and YouFibre. NOW Broadband was not listed among the major national winners that year.

Regulatory Alignment & ADR

NOW is powered by Sky and covered by Ofcom-approved Alternative Dispute Resolution via CISAS rather than the Communications Ombudsman. This provides a free, independent route if a complaint reaches deadlock.

Our Editorial Verdict (2025)

Good value for flexible, broadband-only deals with rolling contract options. Lack of gigabit tiers and generally lower uploads than full-fibre rivals, alongside mixed satisfaction polls, keep it outside our top performers.

Common Complaints About NOW Broadband from Real Users

We reviewed Ofcom’s 2025 data and recent public reviews (Aug 2025) to surface the three issues you’re most likely to encounter

Customer Service & Issue Resolution

Many users say problems take multiple contacts to resolve or escalate. Ofcom’s 2025 report shows NOW generated the highest fixed-broadband complaints to Ofcom in 2024 (65 per 100k customers), indicating pressure points in after-sales care compared with peers.

Price Rises & Billing Admin

Customers frequently report confusion or frustration around price uplifts and post-cancellation billing. In 2025, NOW notified members of a £3/month rise from 4 July 2025; while permitted, changes like these are a common source of complaints if not clearly understood on sign-up.

Reliability: Dropouts & Variable Speeds

A notable share of reviews mention intermittent dropouts or speeds below expectations—especially on FTTC, which is more distance- and copper-quality-dependent. Ofcom notes providers with more copper-based lines tend to see more faults; FTTP connections are generally more stable.

How to Cancel Your NOW Broadband

Step by Step Guide to Cancelling NOW Broadband

Cancelling Your NOW Subscription

To cancel your NOW home broadband, follow these steps:
1. Switching to another provider Use the UK One Touch Switch process by ordering with your new provider. They arrange the transfer and notify NOW for you. Do not cancel early yourself or you risk downtime.
2. Leaving broadband entirely or moving to a network the new provider cannot switch from Contact NOW to cease service. NOW terms allow you to end your contract by giving 30 days' notice outside the cooling off window. If you are in a fixed term, early release fees may apply.
3. Early termination charges on fixed terms If you leave before the minimum term ends, NOW calculates an Early Release Fee. As a guide, their current price list sets this at 97% of your monthly fee multiplied by the months left in your minimum term. Always check your contract summary for your figure.
4. Cooling off rights If you ordered online or by phone you typically have a 14 day cooling off period. If you asked service to start within that time you will be billed for any usage and activation already provided. Return any loaned equipment when cancelling in cooling off.
5. Return loaned kit If NOW asks for the router or mesh back, send it promptly using their returns method. Non-return charges can apply. Their price list notes a Failed Equipment Return fee and that a replacement router can be charged up to the device's RRP. The Sky Hub has an RRP listed at £199 on that page.
6. Final bill and moving home Check your final invoice after the service stops. If you are moving, give notice in good time so installations and cease dates line up. As Ties the Broadband Expert, my tip is to time a One Touch Switch for the same day your new service goes live to avoid overlap or a gap.

Can NOW Broadband Be Trusted?

We Reviewed NOW Broadband Across Four Key Trust Factors

Ofcom Rules & Pricing Clarity

From 17 January 2025, new UK telecoms contracts can’t use inflation-linked (CPI/RPI) mid-contract rises. Any future increase must be shown upfront in pounds-and-pence. NOW (Powered by Sky) reflects this on its Full Fibre pages and T&Cs.

Support & Who You Deal With

New NOW Full Fibre is fulfilled as NOW Powered by Sky, so you use Sky’s help channels (phone, online help, chat/social). Sky runs a mix of UK and offshore centres; it isn’t guaranteed “UK-only.”

Contracts & Leaving

Full Fibre orders are 24-month Sky contracts with pricing stated per Ofcom rules. Older NOW FTTC plans historically offered 12-month or 30-day rolling (rolling often had a ~£60 setup). Early exit fees usually apply unless a specific right to leave is triggered (e.g., NOW’s notice that unsupported Hub Two failures after 31 July 2025 allow penalty-free cancellation).

Speeds & Availability

NOW’s current Full Fibre range is 75, 100 and 300 Mb on Openreach FTTP (check your postcode). The old 63 Mb figure relates to FTTC, not Full Fibre. As a guide, Sky consistently ranks among the lowest-complaint providers with Ofcom, while NOW has sat above average in recent quarters—worth factoring into expectations.

BEST NOW BROADBAND DEALS IN 2025 🔓

“Affordable full fibre plans, Sky Hub included, and strong uploads in many CityFibre areas.”

NOW Broadband Full Fibre – 2025 Offers

Explore NOW Broadband's latest full fibre packages in 2025. With straightforward tiers, a Sky Hub router for reliable Wi-Fi, and symmetric-style uploads in supported CityFibre locations.

See NOW Deals

Does NOW Broadband Offer a Trial Period or Satisfaction Guarantee?

Cooling-off rights • What you might pay • How switching works after 14 days

14-Day Cooling-Off (No Free Trial)

You can cancel within 14 days under UK rules. If you started service in that window, you’ll be charged for the days used and any agreed activation/installation, and you may be asked to return any loaned kit.

Faults & “Satisfaction”

There’s no separate money-back guarantee. NOW provides technical support and engineer visits where needed. Within 14 days you can cancel; after that, standard contract terms apply (potential early-exit fees if you’re in a minimum term).

After 14 Days: Switching

Want to leave later on? Use One Touch Switch — just contact your new provider and they’ll arrange the move. If you’re mid-contract, early termination charges may still apply.

NOW Broadband Review Rating Breakdown

NOW Broadband achieves an 8.1 out of 10 Overall Rating

See today's price
OVERALL SCORE
0
Performance
0/10
Value
0/10
Experience
0/10
Availability
0/10
Features
0/10
Reputation
0/10

How We Rate NOW Broadband

Affiliate Disclosure We may earn a commission if you sign up through our links, however, commission rates are never a factor in our rankings.

The weights below are the same for all our ISP Reviews to provide a fair comparable score.

PERFORMANCE 35%
VALUE 25%
CUSTOMER EXP 15%
REPUTATION 10%
AVAILABILITY 10%
FEATURES 5%

How this ensures transparency:

This approach lets us judge the best deal for each customer without bias. Commission, CPA, payout rates, and margins are not used anywhere in the scoring model, so providers cannot buy a higher rank. Every score is computed for what’s best for the customer.

NOW Broadband Review: Why It Scores 8.1/10 in 2025

Why NOW Stands Out for Affordable, Flexible Broadband

NOW Broadband dashboard screenshot

NOW Broadband: Affordable, Reliable, Flexible

NOW Broadband, powered by Sky, offers budget-friendly plans with no mid-contract price hikes and a choice of 12-month or 30-day contracts. As Ties the broadband expert, I appreciate its reliable Openreach connectivity and optional TV memberships for added value.

If you need ultrafast speeds or advanced router features, NOW’s 300Mbps cap and basic Hub Two may fall short. For cost-conscious households seeking simplicity, NOW earns an 8.1 overall from us, despite some customer service challenges.

PERFORMANCE

Stable FTTC (up to 76Mbps) or FTTP (up to 300Mbps) speeds via Openreach, ideal for streaming and work.

VALUE FOR MONEY

Affordable pricing (£23–£30/month) with no price increases during contracts.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

High satisfaction for ease of use and flexible contracts, though support can be slow.

AVAILABILITY

Wide FTTC coverage and growing FTTP access via Openreach, but full fibre varies by postcode.

REPUTATION

Praised for value and no price hikes, with some criticism for customer service delays.

USER TESTIMONIALS

WHAT PEOPLE THINK ABOUT NOW BROADBAND

"Upgraded to NOW Full Fibre 100 and it’s been rock solid for Zoom calls and Xbox. WiFi Max made a big difference in the back bedrooms."
★★★★★
- Aisha Rahman // Bristol
"Smooth switch from our old FTTC. The engineer visit was quick and the My Sky app makes it easy to pause the kids’ devices at bedtime."
★★★★☆
- Gareth Hughes // Cardiff
"4K streaming is flawless on Full Fibre 300. We put the hub centrally and use Shield filters—simple setup and the price feels fair."
★★★★★
- Priya Desai // Leeds

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NOW BROADBAND

What most people want to know about NOW Broadband in 2025