Do You Need A Landline For Broadband

At Lillian Purge, we specialise in Local SEO Services and answer do you need a landline for broadband to help you choose the right connectivity for your business and save on costs.

In the UK, many broadband connections still rely on a landline to deliver internet through existing telephone cables. However, newer broadband technologies now allow you to connect without a landline. Whether you need one depends on the type of service and provider you choose.

Broadband That Requires a Landline

Traditional broadband connections, such as ADSL and Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC), use the Openreach telephone network. These types of broadband require a landline connection to deliver the service.

ADSL Broadband
ADSL broadband runs entirely through copper telephone lines. It’s one of the most widely available broadband types, especially in rural or older areas. Because it uses existing phone cables, a landline is essential.

Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC)
FTTC combines fibre and copper cables. Fibre optic cables carry the signal to a local street cabinet, and from there, copper wires connect to your property. While it offers faster speeds than ADSL, it still relies on a landline connection for the final part of the journey.

In both cases, you can choose not to have a home phone service, but you’ll still need to pay for the line rental as part of your broadband package.

Broadband That Doesn’t Require a Landline

If you want broadband without a landline, you’ll need to choose a service that doesn’t depend on telephone cables. These include:

Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
FTTP, also known as full fibre broadband, delivers the connection directly to your property using fibre optic cables. It’s significantly faster and doesn’t require a traditional phone line. Providers such as BT Full Fibre, Virgin Media, and smaller networks like Hyperoptic or Community Fibre offer these services in certain areas.

Mobile Broadband
Mobile broadband uses 4G or 5G networks instead of fixed cables. You can access it through portable routers, dongles, or SIM-based routers. This is ideal for those who move frequently or live in areas with strong mobile signals but limited wired connections.

Satellite Broadband
Satellite broadband is another option for remote locations without phone or fibre networks. It connects via a satellite dish rather than a landline. However, it tends to have higher latency and costs, so it’s usually a last resort.

Fixed Wireless Broadband
Some providers offer fixed wireless broadband, which uses radio signals from nearby masts. It doesn’t require a landline and can be a good alternative for rural areas.

How to Check if You Need a Landline

Before signing up for broadband, check what’s available in your postcode. You can do this on provider websites or comparison tools. The availability of FTTP and wireless options is growing across the UK, but many areas still depend on FTTC connections.

If your area only offers ADSL or FTTC, you’ll need a landline. If FTTP or mobile broadband is available, you can choose a landline-free package.

Pros and Cons of Having Broadband with a Landline

Pros

• Wider availability across the UK.

• Reliable and stable connection.

• Suitable for homes that already use a traditional phone line.

Cons

• Often includes line rental charges even if you don’t use a phone.

• May offer slower speeds than full fibre or 5G broadband.

• Can be more difficult to install in properties without existing cabling.

Benefits of Broadband Without a Landline

1. No Line Rental Costs
You won’t pay extra for a phone line you don’t use, which can reduce your monthly bill.

2. Faster Speeds
Full fibre and 5G connections are much faster than copper-based broadband, with speeds reaching up to 1Gbps in some areas.

3. Modern Technology
Landline-free broadband uses advanced infrastructure, which means fewer faults and more reliable performance.

4. Cleaner Installation
There’s no need for additional cabling or phone sockets, which can make setup simpler.

When It’s Worth Keeping a Landline

While many people no longer use traditional home phones, there are situations where keeping a landline makes sense:

• You live in an area without fibre or mobile broadband coverage.

• You rely on your landline for personal or business calls.

• Your alarm system or medical alert device requires a phone connection.

In these cases, a bundled phone and broadband deal may still be the most practical and affordable option.

The Future of Broadband and Landlines

The UK is gradually moving away from traditional phone-based internet connections. Openreach plans to switch off the old copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by 2025. This means all landline-based broadband services will eventually move to digital networks using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).

As full fibre coverage expands, landline-free broadband will become the standard. Businesses and households will transition to faster, more efficient internet connections that no longer rely on old telephone lines.

Choosing the Right Option

When deciding whether you need a landline, consider:

• The broadband types available in your area.

• The speeds you require for your usage.

• Whether you still use a home phone.

• Your budget and contract preferences.

If your area supports full fibre or 5G broadband, choosing a landline-free plan offers better value and performance. However, in areas where only ADSL or FTTC is available, a landline-based service remains the most reliable option.

Final Thoughts

Whether you need a landline for broadband depends entirely on the type of connection you choose. While traditional broadband still requires a phone line in many areas, newer options like full fibre, 5G, and wireless broadband provide faster, more flexible solutions without one.

As the UK’s digital infrastructure continues to evolve, landline-free broadband will become increasingly accessible and affordable. For now, check the availability in your area and choose the option that best fits your needs for speed, reliability, and convenience.

We have also written in depth articles on are 0330 phone numbers free and how can i find my landline number as well as our Virtual Landlines Hub to give you further guidance.