Why is my internet so crap?

[elliott]

My internet connection seems to be very unreliable recently. Its often slow, frequently cuts out, and I seem to find it difficult to get my iphone to connect to my wireless at home. Often i can connect but with 'local access only'.
Is this likely to be an ISP problem? We are with tiscali/talktalk. Are there any better providers?

Well firstly check your wiring. You should have ADSL microfilters on every telephone extension in the house. If you don't then that's probably the issue.

Try moving the router to the master socket (ie. the main one which BT connect up) and seeing if that makes a difference.

If it's still disconnecting, try connecting a computer using a RJ45 cable rather than via wireless. This will eliminate wireless as an issue.

You can also call TalkTalk and see if they can run a linecheck. Since it's TalkTalk, I recommend you allow 2-3 hours and have a rather large bottle of wine/beer handy. God knows, you'll need it!

And then if you've done all that and nothing can be done to improve it check if you can get BE Unlimited in your area.

BE is completely unlimited (really) and very fast and it works all the time none of this "well what can you expect at peak times".

It costs more though, but worth every penny.

Thanks both. Yes to the adsl filters and being connected to the main bt input. I probably should get out a cable and rule out wifi issues.
That won't help with the iPhone though!
I checked the BE website and it says I can expect 12-19 whatsits. Is that going to be worth it? Any other providers we should consider?

I've been with bethere for 5 years. I won't move. Their service is A*

I download a LOT and never been moaned at. If I call, I never have to queue and never get treated like an idiot.

If you were with them I'd have told u to call them first as theyd tell you in seconds if it was a problem at their end or not.

Talktalk you only call if you are desperate and want to feel suicidal.

Hi Eilliot,

Can you confirm if you have connected the router directly to the test socket whilst testing? This is the first step in diagnostics as it rules out any internal wiring. If issues persist in the test socket we can look further into this issue.

If you register on the TalkTalk Members Forum we can provide full account support and fault management as necessary. We can investigate into the issue for you and advise further.

Regards

Mark
TalkTalk Online Community Executive
TalkTalk Online Community Department

I didn't have much trouble calling Talk Talk, the trick is to be firm, clear and know what you are talking about and refuse to take any bullshit.