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What Is a Symmetrical Broadband Connection & Why It Matters
Symmetrical broadband provides the same upload and download speeds, unlike traditional asymmetrical broadband, where download speeds are much faster than uploads.
Most home broadband is asymmetrical, which works well for streaming and browsing. However, it can be slow when uploading large files or using cloud apps. Symmetrical broadband makes uploads as fast as downloads, so it’s great for video calls, cloud backups, regular data transfers, and online gaming.
How Symmetrical Broadband Works
Symmetrical broadband uses full-fibre (FTTP) technology. This setup delivers equal upload and download speeds with very low delay.
Full-Fibre Infrastructure
Full-fibre connections have high capacity, so upload and download speeds happen at the same time. This reduces delays during video calls because of the low latency. The connection runs straight from the exchange to your building.
Why Copper & Part-Fibre Lines Are Not Symmetrical
FTTC uses copper cables from the street cabinet to your building. Copper can pick up interference and usually gives priority to downloads, with speeds dropping the farther you are from the cabinet. Fibre optic cables use light to send data, so they are more consistent, have higher capacity, and are more reliable.
If you are considering your options, review our FTTC vs FTTP guide.
Symmetrical Broadband in the UK – Business-Grade Providers
Most broadband providers offer symmetrical connections, but not as standard. If your needs require a symmetrical connection, you should look for these types of deals. Leased lines are a great option for symmetrical connections, and you’ll be able to handle high data demand.
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Daisy Communications offers a few options for symmetrical speeds with their leased lines. They offer a more affordable solution than typical leased lines with Fibre Bright & Light connections.
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Virgin Media Business, BT Business, and Vodafone Business - offers a variety of broadband plans including high-speed connections and leased lines.
Why Symmetrical Broadband Can Only Be Delivered On Fibre Cables
Fibre cables has better capabilities when it comes to transmitting data as it uses light. This means that speed can travel in both directions with better consistency. Copper cables cannot offer the same multi-directional speeds consistency.
Why Symmetrical Upload Speeds Are Important
Symmetrical upload speeds solve many problems that a modern business may experience. It’s important for a business to understand how exactly it uses its connection to ensure it’s choosing the right option for its needs. Here are some reasons why some businesses may choose symmetrical upload speeds.
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Remote working: supports smoother video calls and faster file sharing.
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Live streaming & content creators: deliver higher quality streams and stability for live broadcasting.
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Cloud backups/mission-critical apps: allow businesses to transfer data quickly to cloud applications.
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Future-proof tech: full-fibre is future-proof and compatible with other emerging technologies that require symmetrical speeds.
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Collaboration tools: small businesses and growing teams that have a dependence on collaboration tools like Sage, Figma, and Microsoft Teams.
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Creative tools: can easily support media-heavy creative teams to deliver a fast and smooth service.
Most businesses would benefit from a symmetrical broadband connection, particularly remote workers, cloud-based operations, freelancers, streamers, offices, and businesses with lots of devices.
Not sure what connection is right for you? Here’s our broadband buyers' guide to help you decide.