For our Compare Broadband in the UK guide, we reviewed the providers people actually end up choosing for home and work — then focused on the bits that matter day-to-day: real-world speed, reliability, and how helpful support is when something goes wrong. The result is a shortlist of broadband options that work well across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Whether you’re streaming Netflix or BBC iPlayer, working from home on video calls, gaming online, or running a small business, these broadband deals are picked for stable connections and solid value — so you can match the right package to your home, usage, and budget.
Find the Best Broadband Deals in UK for 2025
Our Expert Picks for UK’s Top Broadband Providers
Fast, Reliable & Affordable – UK’s Top Broadband Options for 2025
Our 2025 comparison highlights broadband packages in UK that combine speed, reliability, and value. From major cities to rural areas, these providers deliver excellent coverage and customer service.
Our experts say: "In 2025, choosing the right broadband in the United Kingdom means finding the perfect balance between speed, price, and reliability, and we’ve done the hard work for you."
Why Choose Broadband Over Other Internet Options in the UK
What we noticed while comparing UK internet options: fixed broadband is usually the most predictable choice
More consistent speed (especially at busy times)
When we compared broadband with mobile data and older ADSL lines, the biggest difference was consistency. Fibre broadband tends to hold up better for 4K streaming, online gaming, and video calls — especially when everyone’s online at the same time.
Hotspots can be unpredictable (even with “full bars”)
This is something we ran into ourselves while testing: when our team used a phone hotspot, speeds could be all over the place. Even with a strong signal showing, pages sometimes loaded slowly and streaming quality dipped. We also saw 5G drop back to 4G randomly — without moving the phone — which made speeds fluctuate a lot.
Better value when your household uses a lot of data
For most homes, fixed broadband is easier to budget for. Many UK broadband packages include unlimited data, so you can stream, download, update devices, and work from home without watching a usage meter.
Fewer “random” slowdowns than mobile and satellite
Mobile networks can slow down at peak times, and satellite can be more sensitive to signal conditions. Fixed broadband is usually the most reliable option for everyday use — ideal if you rely on a steady connection for work, school, or streaming.
Why Not Choose Mobile or Satellite Over Broadband in the UK
The main drawbacks we found with hotspots and satellite (vs fixed broadband)
Data limits (and unexpected slowdowns)
A lot of mobile and satellite plans come with caps, fair-use limits, or speed reductions after heavy usage. That can be a headache if your home streams daily, downloads game updates, or needs stable video calls for work.
Speed can change wildly (even with a strong signal)
Mobile internet depends on congestion, indoor coverage, and which mast your phone connects to. In our own hotspot testing, we saw good signal but slow loading, and 5G dropped to 4G without moving the phone — which made speeds fluctuate a lot. Satellite can also add extra lag compared to fixed broadband.
Satellite is brilliant for rural — but usually too expensive for everyday use
To be fair, satellite isn’t “bad” — Starlink can be genuinely excellent in rural areas where fibre isn’t available. But for most households, it’s hard to justify because you’re typically paying more (hardware + monthly fees) than a standard broadband plan. If you have access to solid fibre, fixed broadband usually wins on value.
Why UK Residents Should Compare Broadband in 2025
Why we always compare first (and why it usually pays off)
Pick the speed that actually suits your home
When we compare UK broadband deals, the biggest win is avoiding packages that sound fast on paper but don’t feel smooth day-to-day. Comparing helps you match the right speed to what you do most — streaming, video calls, gaming, or running a busy household with lots of devices.
Avoid overpaying for the same (or worse) service
Prices can vary a lot between providers, and the best deals are often tied to intro offers or bundles. Comparing makes it easier to spot the better-value option — and avoid paying premium prices for an average connection.
Get the right package (not just the cheapest)
Some homes need unlimited usage, others want fibre stability, and some prefer TV add-ons or faster upload speeds for work. A quick comparison helps you find a plan that fits how you use the internet — rather than forcing your household to “make do”.
ESSENTIAL BROADBAND FEATURES FOR THE UK
🛡️ “When we compare broadband deals, these are the features that make the biggest difference in real day-to-day use.”
UNLIMITED DATA
For most homes, unlimited data is non-negotiable. It keeps streaming, gaming, and downloads simple — no worrying about caps, fair use limits, or surprise slowdowns.
CONSISTENT FIBRE SPEEDS
Fibre is the best all-round option for video calls, HD/4K streaming, and gaming. We prioritise packages that feel stable at peak times, not just “fast on paper”.
FLEXIBLE CONTRACTS
Renting or might move soon? Shorter terms can make life easier. If you’re settled, longer contracts often unlock the best pricing.
SUPPORT THAT RESPONDS
Outages and router issues happen. What matters is how quickly you can get help — and whether you can reach a human when you need one.
BUNDLES (IF YOU’LL USE THEM)
TV and landline bundles can be great value — but only if you actually want them. Otherwise, a broadband-only deal is often cheaper long-term.
WHOLE-HOME WI-FI
A fast line isn’t much use if Wi-Fi drops upstairs. A decent router — or mesh Wi-Fi — makes a noticeable difference in larger homes and flats with thick walls.
INTRO DEALS (WITH A CLEAR END PRICE)
Cashback and discounts are great, but we always check what the bill becomes later. The best deals stay good value after the intro period ends.
NO PRICE SURPRISES
We prioritise providers that are clear about pricing terms, so you’re not caught off guard by unexpected changes during your contract.
EXTRAS (NICE TO HAVE)
Some deals include hotspot access or small perks. Helpful — but not worth sacrificing speed, reliability, or overall value for.
How Network Location Affects Broadband Speed in the UK
Why your postcode can change your broadband speed
Closer equipment usually means a smoother connection
On older networks (like ADSL or part-fibre/FTTC), distance plays a big role — the further you are from the cabinet or exchange, the more performance can drop. If you can get full fibre (FTTP), it’s usually the best upgrade for speed and stability.
Latency is often the hidden problem
Even if download speeds look “fine”, people notice issues in gaming and video calls when latency is high. Properties further from older network points can see higher ping — which can mean more lag in calls, meetings, and online games.
It’s not just speed — it’s what’s available at your address
Some streets have multiple networks (Openreach, Virgin Media, altnets), while others have fewer options. Comparing providers at your postcode helps you balance price, contract length, and network type — not just headline speeds.
Always check by postcode (even within the same street)
We’ve seen broadband availability change between neighbouring houses — so it’s worth checking your exact address. Testing what each provider can deliver to your postcode is the quickest way to find the fastest, most reliable option.
Best Broadband Features for Gaming in the UK
What actually improves online gaming at home
Low Ping & Low Jitter
While researching broadband for gaming, we kept seeing the same pattern because it’s how games work under the hood: most multiplayer titles send lots of small, time-sensitive packets. If latency spikes (jitter), you feel it immediately as stutter, delayed hit registration, or rubber-banding — even if your download speed looks high. Fibre (and especially full fibre/FTTP) typically handles this better than older copper-heavy lines, delivering a more consistent connection that makes gameplay feel “snappier”.
Stable Performance at Peak Time
Peak time is the real stress test. In the evenings, bandwidth demand rises and home networks get busy (4K streaming, background downloads, cloud backups, video calls). The best gaming broadband isn’t just fast — it stays stable under load and avoids sudden latency jumps when other devices are active.
Upload Speed for Chat & Streaming
Upload is underrated. It affects party chat clarity, cloud gaming responsiveness, and livestream quality. Many older part-fibre (FTTC) and copper-based services have limited uploads, which can cause voice dropouts or stream quality dips when someone else is uploading files. Full fibre usually gives much stronger uploads, which helps gaming stay smooth while you’re chatting or streaming at the same time.
Compare Broadband in UK – Briefing by Ties
How UK ISPs Track Your Online Activity
What your broadband provider can actually see
They See Metadata (and Often the Domains You Visit)
Your broadband provider carries your internet traffic, so it can record connection metadata like your IP address, connection times, and how much data you send/receive. In many setups, it can also see the domains your device requests through DNS (for example: “youtube.com” or “bbc.co.uk”).
HTTPS Hides the Content — Not the Destination
Most websites use HTTPS, which means your ISP usually can’t read what you type, the exact pages you view, or the messages you send on secure sites. But it can still see patterns like the destination domain, timing, and traffic volume — enough to infer activities like streaming, gaming, or large downloads.
Why They Collect It (and When It Can Be Shared)
ISPs use this data for billing, network management, security, and customer support. They may also disclose certain data to authorities when required under the appropriate legal process. Any extra use (like marketing or analytics) depends on the provider’s policies and your privacy/consent settings.
TIES' UK BROADBAND FACT
Ties the Broadband Expert says: Millions of homes in the United Kingdom trust Sky, BT, and Virgin Media for fast, reliable connections—perfect for streaming, gaming, remote work, and keeping families connected.
COMPARE BROADBAND DEALS IN UK
Fibre vs Standard Broadband in the UK
The difference that actually affects your day-to-day internet
Speed (Download Is Only Half the Story)
Fibre broadband is built for modern homes — multiple streams, video calls, and big downloads at the same time. Standard broadband (older copper-based lines) can still work for light browsing, but it struggles much sooner when several devices are active. Fibre plans also tend to give better upload speeds, which helps with Teams/Zoom calls, cloud backups, and sharing files.
Stability (Latency and Jitter)
Fibre is usually more consistent because there’s less signal loss than copper, so speeds don’t swing as wildly. With standard broadband, performance is more likely to dip due to line quality, distance, and local congestion — which can show up as buffering, lag spikes, or stutter during gaming and calls.
Cost (Value vs the Cheapest Price)
Fibre can cost a bit more per month, but it often saves frustration if your household streams, games, or works from home. If you’re comparing deals, look beyond the headline price — check the average speeds at your postcode, the contract length, and whether the package includes a decent router or mesh options for whole-home Wi-Fi.
How Your Location in the UK Affects Broadband Choice
Why speeds, prices, and providers change by postcode
Cities Usually Have More Choice
In larger towns and cities, you’re more likely to have multiple networks competing (full fibre, cable, and “altnets”). That usually means faster packages, better promos, and more flexibility on contract length.
Rural Areas Depend on the Local Network
Rural broadband is often limited by what’s physically been built to your area — sometimes it’s FTTC, sometimes full fibre, and sometimes fixed wireless or satellite. It’s why one village can have gigabit options while the next one struggles for speed.
The Network Matters More Than the Brand
Many “different” providers resell the same infrastructure. If they’re on the same underlying network, the line performance can be similar — so the real difference becomes router quality, Wi-Fi coverage, traffic management, and customer support. Where networks differ (for example, Openreach vs cable vs full-fibre altnets), speed and reliability can change a lot.
Street-by-Street Speeds Can Vary
Even on the same package, your results can change based on line length, cabinet routing, and local capacity. That’s why two neighbours can both buy “fast fibre” and still see different real-world performance at peak time.
Competition Drives Price
Postcodes with more networks tend to get sharper pricing and better incentives (cashback, free setup, discounted first year). In areas with fewer choices, deals are often less aggressive because providers don’t have to compete as hard.
Do a Postcode Check Before You Compare
Always start with availability at your exact address. Check the estimated download and upload speeds, contract terms, and whether the provider includes a decent router or mesh option for your home layout.
Can the UK Government Monitor My Internet Use?
How government access to broadband data works in practice
Yes — but it’s usually “data about the connection”, not the content
In the UK, government access is most commonly aimed at communications data (sometimes called metadata) — things like
subscriber details, connection timestamps, and which service or IP address was used. Accessing the content of communications
typically requires stronger legal authorisation and tighter oversight.
External source: ICO overview of the Investigatory Powers Act
Case study: Communications data can be requested — and challenged
Oversight isn’t theoretical. In a case reported by The Guardian, MI5 conceded it had unlawfully obtained communications data
linked to a former BBC journalist. The case highlights two key points: (1) communications data can be highly revealing, and (2) UK surveillance activity
can be scrutinised through legal processes and tribunals.
External case reference: MI5 and journalist communications data (The Guardian)
Case study: Courts have criticised parts of the UK’s interception safeguards
The European Court of Human Rights has examined UK surveillance frameworks in depth. In Big Brother Watch and Others v. the United Kingdom,
the court assessed the UK’s bulk interception regime and identified areas where safeguards were inadequate — a reminder that “legal powers” and
“proper safeguards” are not the same thing, and both matter for privacy.
External case reference: ECHR HUDOC — Big Brother Watch v UK
Broadband Data Retention in the UK – What You Need to Know
What gets logged, what can be requested, and what the law focuses on
What Broadband Companies Can Record
Most UK broadband providers generate technical logs to operate the network and keep it secure — things like your IP address, connection timestamps, basic routing/DNS metadata, and service performance info. This is mainly used for fault-finding, abuse prevention, and network management. It’s different from the content of what you type, watch, or message.
When Retention Can Be Required Under UK Law
Separately from day-to-day operational logging, UK law can allow certain authorities to require retention of communications data (metadata) via formal legal processes and oversight. In simple terms: the focus is usually on the “who/when/where” around a connection, not the message content itself.
Source: Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (Part 4) – legislation.gov.uk
Real Case Study: Courts Have Tested the Safeguards
These powers haven’t gone unchallenged. In Big Brother Watch and Others v. the United Kingdom, the European Court of Human Rights examined the UK’s surveillance framework and highlighted the importance of clear safeguards and independent oversight when states collect or retain communications-related data.
Read the case on HUDOC (ECHR)
Who Should Compare Broadband Deals in the UK?
Find the right broadband for how you actually live, study, work, and travel
Broadband for Families
If your home has multiple people online at the same time, compare packages based on Wi-Fi coverage (not just speed), router quality, and peak-time performance. The best family plans handle 4K streaming, gaming, video calls, and smart devices without constant buffering or room-to-room dead spots.
Broadband for Students
Students usually get the best value by focusing on low monthly cost, shorter contracts, and solid upload speeds for video seminars and assignment uploads. In shared houses, “average speed” matters less than how the network holds up when everyone streams at once.
Broadband for Remote Workers & Professionals
For calls and cloud work, reliability beats headline download speed. Compare providers by upload speed, latency, and stability at peak hours. A dependable connection reduces dropped meetings, glitchy screen shares, and slow VPN performance.
Broadband for Small Businesses
Businesses should compare plans that offer strong upstream performance, optional static IP, and faster fault response. If you rely on VoIP phones, card terminals, CCTV, or remote access, uptime and support can be worth more than saving a few pounds a month.
Broadband for Renters & Short Stays
If you’re renting, renovating, or only staying temporarily, compare short contracts, rolling monthly options, and quick installation. This avoids being locked into long commitments or paying exit fees when you move.
Key Factors to Compare When Choosing Broadband in UK
Understand what matters most when selecting a broadband provider in UK.
Broadband Speed & Performance
Evaluate download and upload speeds to ensure smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing without interruptions, matching your household’s daily internet needs.
Reliability & Uptime
Look for providers with strong uptime records, quick fault resolution, and minimal service dropouts to keep your connection running consistently.
Coverage & Availability
Check availability by postcode to confirm the best speeds and stable performance are accessible in your specific area before you choose a plan.
Pricing & Contract Terms
Compare monthly prices, setup fees, contract lengths, and any penalties so you know exactly what you’ll pay over the full agreement period.
How Much Does Broadband Cost in UK?
What broadband typically costs — and what you get for the money
Typical Broadband Prices in UK
We checked broadband prices today (16th of Dec 2025), and most UK deals still fall into a few clear tiers. Entry-level broadband often starts from around £15/month for lighter use. Mid-range fibre plans commonly land between £20–£30/month, which is usually the sweet spot for streaming and working from home. Faster premium packages (higher speeds, TV bundles, or upgraded support) can reach £40+. In general, fixed-term contracts usually work out better value than rolling monthly deals — but always check setup fees and mid-contract price rises.
Top Broadband Myths UK Residents Still Believe in 2025
The broadband “truths” that catch people out
Myth: “All broadband contracts lock you in for years”
You’ll still see plenty of 18–24 month deals, but they’re not your only option anymore. In the UK, you can often find 12-month contracts and rolling monthly plans — especially useful for renters, students, or anyone who might move. The trade-off is usually price: shorter commitments can cost more, so compare the total cost (monthly price + setup fees).
Myth: “If it says 500Mb, I’ll get 500Mb everywhere”
Advertised speeds are not a promise for every home and every device. Your real speed can change based on your line type (FTTP vs FTTC), local network demand at peak times, and even your home setup. A common mistake is blaming the provider when the real bottleneck is Wi-Fi (router placement, thick walls, older devices). For a fair test, check speeds via ethernet before judging the service.
Myth: “The cheapest broadband is always the best deal”
Cheap plans can be great — but “best value” depends on how you use the internet. A low price can come with weaker routers, slower upload speeds, or less consistent peak-time performance. If you do video calls, game online, or have multiple people streaming, paying a bit more for a stronger connection can save you headaches (and sometimes money) long term.
TOP BROADBAND DEAL IN UK 2025
📡 “Reliable speeds, unlimited data, and Sky’s award-winning support.”
Sky Broadband – Superfast Package with Unlimited Data
Experience dependable broadband with Sky’s Superfast plan — built for households in UK that need consistent speeds for streaming, online gaming, and remote work. Includes unlimited data, line rental, Sky’s WiFi Guarantee, and UK-based customer support.
View Best DealsCOMPARE UK INTERNET BROADBAND PROVIDERS
Unbiased 2025 ISP Internet reviews for UK
ZEN INTERNET REVIEW
Our full Zen Internet review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ ZEN INTERNET REVIEW
SKY BROADBAND REVIEW
Sky pairs reliable broadband with optional TV bundles. Our review highlights plan choices, hardware, and support — plus gaming notes on latency stability and how Sky holds up during busy evening traffic.
READ SKY BROADBAND REVIEW
CUCKOO BROADBAND REVIEW
Our full Cuckoo Broadband review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ CUCKOO BROADBAND REVIEW
PLUSNET BROADBAND REVIEW
Plusnet focuses on keen pricing and solid support. Our review covers speeds, reliability, and customer service — and flags gaming considerations like ping consistency and the benefits of wired/Ethernet on larger plans.
READ PLUSNET BROADBAND REVIEW
BT BROADBAND REVIEW
BT Full Fibre brings stable performance and UK support. In our review we assess speeds, router features, and value — and call out gaming-relevant factors like FTTP latency, upload for streaming, and Smart Hub strengths.
READ BT BROADBAND REVIEW
EE BROADBAND REVIEW
Our full EE Broadband review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ EE BROADBAND REVIEW
HYPEROPTIC REVIEW
Our full Hyperoptic review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ HYPEROPTIC REVIEW
COMMUNITY FIBRE REVIEW
Our full Community Fibre review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ COMMUNITY FIBRE REVIEW
YOUFIBRE REVIEW
Our full YouFibre review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ YOUFIBRE REVIEW
NOW BROADBAND REVIEW
Our full NOW Broadband review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ NOW BROADBAND REVIEW
VODAFONE BROADBAND REVIEW
Our full Vodafone Broadband review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ VODAFONE BROADBAND REVIEW
UTILITY WAREHOUSE REVIEW
Our full Utility Warehouse review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ UTILITY WAREHOUSE REVIEW
TALKTALK BROADBAND REVIEW
Our full TalkTalk Broadband review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ TALKTALK BROADBAND REVIEW
VIRGIN MEDIA BROADBAND REVIEW
Virgin Media offers some of the UK’s fastest packages (including Gig1). Our full review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ VIRGIN MEDIA BROADBAND REVIEW
THREE BROADBAND REVIEW
Our full Three Broadband review covers pricing, reliability, and Wi-Fi kit — plus key gaming pointers like peak-time latency, jitter consistency, and update/download speeds.
READ THREE BROADBAND REVIEWHow We Rate Broadband Deals
Affiliate Disclosure We may earn a commission if you sign up through our links, however, commission rates are never a factor in our rankings.
Everyone's broadband needs are different. A gamer prioritises speed, while a family might focus on budget broadband plans. That's why we create a unique scoring profile for every guide. The weights for this page are specifically tailored to help you find the best Broadband Deals in UK.
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.
Best Broadband Deals in UK
Latest offers from Sky Broadband and BT Broadband
Sky Broadband: Superfast & Full Fibre
Unlimited data plans with dependable speeds across UK. Choose Superfast for everyday use or Full Fibre for ultrafast performance. Optional Sky TV bundles and a WiFi Guarantee provide extra value.
See Sky Broadband Deals
BT Broadband: Fibre & Full Fibre
Fibre and Full Fibre broadband packages with BT’s Smart Hub, Stay Fast Guarantee, and strong UK-wide coverage. Perfect for busy households that need reliable, unlimited speeds and top-tier support.
See BT Broadband DealsWhy These UK Broadband Providers Made Our Shortlist
Picked for fair pricing, reliable performance, and solid coverage by postcode
Built Around UK Consumer Rules
UK broadband runs under Ofcom’s consumer rules, so providers have to be clearer about contracts, switching, and complaints. We prioritise brands with straightforward terms, easy-to-find support, and fewer “gotchas” at renewal.
Real-World Speed, Not Just “Up To”
Anyone can advertise a top speed — what matters is day-to-day performance at your address. We favour providers that perform well at peak times and offer strong average speeds, not just headline numbers.
Coverage That Matches Your Postcode
“Best broadband” depends on the network available where you live — Openreach, Virgin Media, or an altnet. Our shortlist focuses on providers with broad UK availability and dependable infrastructure where they actually serve.
Pricing You Can Understand
We highlight plans that are easier to compare: clear intro pricing, transparent setup costs, and fewer surprises at renewal. Always check the contract length and what the price changes to after any discounted period.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT BROADBAND IN THE UK
Quick answers to the broadband questions UK households ask most
Why does broadband availability vary so much by postcode?
Because networks aren’t the same everywhere. One street might have Openreach full fibre (FTTP), another might only have part-fibre (FTTC), and some areas also have Virgin Media or alternative fibre providers. A postcode check is the only reliable way to see what you can actually order at your address.
What speed do I actually need for my household?
30–70Mbps is usually enough for browsing, HD streaming, and video calls for 1–3 people. 100–300Mbps suits families with lots of devices and 4K streaming. 500Mbps–1Gbps is best for heavy users, frequent large downloads/uploads, or people who game and stream at the same time. Upload speed and Wi-Fi quality matter too — not just download speed.
Why do speeds drop at peak time even on fast packages?
It’s usually contention (more people online locally), weak home Wi-Fi (router placement/interference), or devices connecting on a slower band. Full fibre helps reduce distance-related slowdowns, but peak-time usage can still expose Wi-Fi issues or local congestion — especially in busy areas and apartment buildings.
How long does installation take — and what causes delays?
If a working line or full-fibre equipment is already installed, activation can be quick. If an engineer visit or new cabling is needed, it can take longer. Delays often come from access issues (landlords/entry systems), wayleave permissions in blocks of flats, or extra work needed at the pole, cabinet, or building entry point.
How do I switch broadband without losing service?
In most cases, your new provider handles the switch and sets a changeover date, so you don’t need to cancel first. Check if you’re still in contract (early exit fees may apply) and whether you’re moving between different networks. Keep your router details handy and avoid cancelling early unless the new provider specifically tells you to.