BSNL FTTH Broadband: Not Always 100 Mbps as Advertised

When you sign up for BSNL FTTH Fiber to the Home broadband services, you might expect to experience constant 100 Mbps speeds. However, the actual experience can vary due to a multitude of factors. This article explores these factors and firsthand experiences shared by users.

Factors Affecting Actual Broadband Speeds

BSNL, like other service providers, may advertise speeds that users do not always experience. Here are some key factors that can impact actual broadband speeds:

Network Congestion

During peak usage hours, the speed can be lower due to many users sharing the same bandwidth. This is a common issue faced by all service providers, not just BSNL.

Distance from Exchange

While FTTH is designed to provide high speeds, the quality of the connection can be affected by the distance from the local exchange or distribution point. The further you are from the exchange, the more likely you are to experience speed drops.

Equipment

The performance of your router, modem, and connected devices can impact the speed. Older equipment may not support higher speeds effectively. Upgrading to modern equipment can help improve your internet experience.

Wired vs. Wireless

Wired connections (Ethernet) typically provide more consistent speeds compared to wireless connections (Wi-Fi). Wi-Fi can be affected by interference and range issues, which can reduce your speed significantly.

Plan Specifics

Make sure you are subscribed to the specific plan that offers 100 Mbps. BSNL may have multiple plans with different speeds, and it is crucial to choose the correct plan that suits your needs.

Time of Day

Speed can fluctuate at different times of day based on overall demand in your area. Peak hours can see significant drops in speed, while off-peak hours can offer faster speeds.

Contrary Experiences and Feedback

Despite the challenges, some users have reported successful experiences with BSNL FTTH broadband. Here are some firsthand accounts:

Positive Feedback: Some users have reported consistent 100 Mbps speeds when using Ethernet cables connected directly to the router. However, when using Wi-Fi, speeds can drop considerably to around 30-40 Mbps. This suggests that wired connections offer more consistent speeds than wireless.

Negative Feedback: Users have frequently reported that the advertised 100 Mbps speeds are not consistently achieved. Many users have experienced speeds as low as 260 Kbps, which is significantly lower than the advertised speed of 100 Mbps. This can make online activities like streaming, gaming, and large file transfers very slow.

Speed Calculation Insight

One user notes that 100 Mbps is a marketing stunt and the actual speed is 100 Mbps / 8, which equals 12.5 Mbps. This implies that users are experiencing speeds that are far below the advertised speed. For instance, during testing, speeds ranged from 85 Mbps to as low as 260 Kbps, with an average of 32 Kbps on some days.

Reliability and Consistency

Based on the experiences of a user who has been with BSNL for around 1-2 years, the service is reliable 20 days out of 30, giving it a rating of 80 out of 100. The user has faced frequent fluctuations and has not seen speeds higher than 40 Mbps since 14th February 2021. This suggests that while there are moments of high-speed performance, the overall reliability is questionable.

A more recent user, as of 7th March 2021, has consistently experienced speeds around 30-40 Mbps, which is far below the advertised 100 Mbps. The user also expresses frustration with the lack of technical support from BSNL and the lack of a backup plan in place to mitigate service disruptions.

Conclusion

While BSNL FTTH broadband can provide consistent 100 Mbps speeds when using wired connections, the average experience for many users is significantly lower. Factors such as network congestion, distance, equipment, and wireless interference play significant roles in determining the actual speed experienced. Users should carefully consider these factors and choose plans and solutions that meet their specific needs.

For those who require high-speed and reliable internet, alternative service providers might be worth considering. Regular speed testing and consistent user feedback can help in making informed decisions.