hi,
I am considering o2 as an Isp but I am outside the cheaper o2 network. I seem to get the feeling that most of the reviews are based on customers within the network. Could someone outside the area confirm that speeds are good etc. Also I am a fairly heavy user - around 50gb a month - anybody have any comments on their fair usage policy? Thanks
Both you and onePhat are correct - but i'll add a little info.
Basically, the 'cheaper' options with O2 are ones where they have put their own kit in an exchan ge (a process called Local Loop Unbundling, or LLU). Since their kit is better than standard kit, and in effect gives them some autonomy from BT's network, they can offer a better balance of speed and price.
The other option is based on providing a standard connection, which means they are beholden to BT, and limited by the different hardware - hence the poorer speed/price balance.
Personally, in your position I would not consider O2. I would be looking at Entanet resellers (UKFSN, TitanADSL are 2 of them, but there are many more, and I'm sure other members will have a better idea of them. Just be aware that the FUP usually has a peak and off-peak allowance, but if you can do concentrate your downloads overnight, then they should easily be able to cover 50GB.
Incidentally, you are prbably correct in assuming reviews of O2 are primarily of their LLU packages - these are VERY good packages if you are fortunate enough to be able to get them.
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Edit:
your other option is to see if any other company has LLU'd your exchange:
http://www.samknows.com/broadband/llu-league.php
Before signing up with another LLU ISP it is a good idea to ask on this forum about their reputation, as some companies have a much worse reputation than others!