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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

BROADBAND

What is Gigafast Staffordshire?

Our team is here to:

·       Assist in the delivery of digital infrastructure, to address the coverage in rural areas.

·       Raise awareness and understanding of connectivity and technologies available to you, now and in the future

·       Highlight the benefits of using digital connectivity

·       Offer unbiased advice and direct you to useful resources

·       Help tackle digital exclusion

What is gigabit capable broadband and why do I need it?

This is a technology that can deliver speeds of up to and over 1,000mbps (1gbps) now or in the future. This can include fixed wireless access such as Fibre to the Premise (FTTP) or mobile connectivity such as 5G.

This technology is needed for the UK’s future - from accessing public services to working from home, streaming videos and staying connected – it’s essential. Communities without upgraded broadband risk falling behind.

How is gigabit capable broadband built?

There are two ways to set up a fibre network – either by using poles or underground infrastructure. 

The choice between poles and underground infrastructure depends on context, trade-offs, and local priorities. While poles offer speed and cost advantages, underground installation provides aesthetic benefits and reliability. Balancing these factors ensures efficient and effective broadband deployment. 

Before installing new infrastructure, suppliers try to minimise disruption by using existing infrastructure. However, Project Gigabit contracts must operate within strict value-for-money constraints, which means it is not viable to deliver all new digital infrastructure underground, and the installation of some new telegraph poles will be required. 

When new telegraph poles are installed by BDUK-appointed suppliers, there is an obligation that they are made available to other users, which reduces the need for more new poles in the future. 

You can find more information on this here: Broadband companies and telegraph poles (parliament.uk) 

What are the benefits of gigabit capable broadband?

There are many benefits to both residents and businesses, including faster download and upload speeds and better reliability. See our Benefits of a Gigabit Service webpage for more.

How will I know if I can order a gigabit capable service?

Ofcom have a useful broadband and mobile availability checker that will tell you what type of broadband services are available at your property.

MOBILE CONNECTIVITY

What is mobile connectivity? 

Mobile connectivity refers to the ability make and receive calls and to connect to the internet and other services using a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, through a mobile cell tower network. It works through a network of cell towers that communicate with your mobile device. When you use your device, it sends and receives signals to and from the nearest cell tower, which then connects to the broader internet.

What are the different types of mobile networks?

  • 2G (Second Generation): Basic mobile connectivity for voice calls and text messages.  This will be withdrawn by 2030 - see more info here.

  • 3G (Third Generation): Improved data speeds, allowing for internet browsing and multimedia messaging. This network is currently being withdrawn - see more info here. 

  • 4G (Fourth Generation): High-speed internet access, supporting HD video streaming and faster downloads.

  • 5G (Fifth Generation): The latest technology, offering ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and the ability to connect many devices simultaneously.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and mobile data?

  • Wi-Fi: Uses a local wireless network to connect to the internet, typically provided by a router in homes, offices, or public places. This does not use any of your minutes or data allowance.

  • Mobile Data: Uses the cellular network provided by your mobile carrier to connect to the internet, allowing you to stay connected while on the move. This will use your minutes and data allowance that you have purchased or subscribed to from your mobile provider.

Why is my mobile internet slow?

Several factors can affect mobile internet speed, including:

  • Network congestion (too many users on the same network)

  • Distance from the cell tower

  • Physical obstructions (buildings, trees)

  • Device limitations – Older devices have internal antenna’s that are not as good as later devices

  • Network type (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G)

How can I improve my mobile connectivity?

There are a few things you can do, including ensuring your device is updated with the latest software, moving to an area with better signal strength, using Wi-Fi when available and considering a signal booster if you are in a weak signal area.

You can also contact your mobile provider for assistance.

What are the benefits of 5G?

  • Faster Speeds: Download and upload speeds are significantly higher than previous generations.

  • Low Latency: Reduced delay in data transmission, beneficial for real-time applications like gaming and video calls.

  • Increased Capacity: Can support more devices simultaneously, ideal for smart homes and IoT (Internet of Things) devices.

Who is responsible for ensuring 5G is safe?

In the UK, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) leads on public health matters associated with radio waves and has a statutory duty to provide advice to Government on any health effects that may be caused by EMF emissions.

On 5G, UKHSA’s view is that ‘the overall exposure is expected to remain low relative to guidelines and, as such, there should be no consequences for public health’.

You can read more about this on Ofcom's website here.

DIGITAL SKILLS

Why are digital skills important? 

Digital skills are crucial in today’s technology-driven world. They enable individuals to efficiently perform tasks, improve productivity, and stay competitive in the job market. As businesses increasingly reply on digital tools, having these skills can enhance career opportunities and adaptability. 

What are some examples of basic digital skills?

  • Using email and internet browsers

  • Creating and managing documents and spreadsheets

  • Using social media platforms

  • Basic troubleshooting of digital devices

  • Online communication tools like video conferencing

What are some examples of advanced digital skills?

  • Coding and programming

  • Data analytics and visualization

  • Digital marketing (SEO, SEM, social media marketing)

  • Cyber security

  • UX/UI design

How can I improve my digital skills?

  • Take courses: See our Digital Skills page for lots of opportunities!

  • Practice regularly: Use digital tools and applications frequently to become more comfortable with them.

  • Stay updated: Follow tech news and trends to keep up with the latest developments.

What are the benefits of having strong digital skills?

  • Increased employability: Many jobs require digital skills, and having them can make you a more attractive candidate.

  • Enhanced productivity: Digital tools can help you work more efficiently and effectively.

  • Better communication: Digital skills enable you to use various communication platforms to collaborate with others.

  • Adaptability: Being digitally literate helps you adapt to new technologies and changes in the workplace.

How do digital skills impact the workplace? 

Digital skills are essential in the modern workplace for tasks such as data management, communication, marketing, and project management. They help streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enable remote work and collaboration.

Please note: all content used in this toolkit is from external resources and these have been referenced where applicable. Staffordshire County Council is not responsible for content on any other websites linked to from this site – the inclusion of any such links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites and you view them strictly at your own risk.