About 4th Utility broadband
4th Utility is a full fibre broadband provider that offers high-speed full fibre (FTTP) services throughout the UK.
Using the CityFibre fibre optic network, wholly independent of Openreach, makes 4th Utility an ‘altnet’ ISP. This allows monthly prices to be very competitive. It also offers a generous Social Tariff plan for those claiming benefits.
Availability will depend on CityFibre’s reach to your area and premises, but this coverage is rapidly growing - so let’s discover more!
4th Utility packages and speeds
4th Utility offers a large selection of full fibre packages with a range of broadband speeds. These start from quite modest entry-level options good for small to medium homes, right up to very fast 2Gbps+ connections for power users.
Notable features include unlimited data caps and symmetrical internet speeds, even with its fastest package.
Deals are available on a range of minimum contract lengths including 24, 12-month and 1-month rolling contracts. Just be warned, shorter contracts are normally priced much higher.
Typical packages include:
- 30Mbps Full Fibre – great for basic browsing and email
- 100Mbps Full Fibre – ideal for couples streaming and working from home
- 250Mbps Full Fibre – perfect for busy families with lots of devices
- 500Mbps Full Fibre – ultrafast speeds for HD streaming and gaming
- 900Mbps & 1Gbps Full Fibre – true gigabit-ready performance
- 2.3Gbps Full Fibre – next-gen speeds for power users and creators
The availability and pricing of these packages will vary by your home address.
Genie Tip: Shorter rolling contracts are usually pricier per month, but they’re ideal if you want to try 4th Utility without long-term commitment.
| Package | Download Time |
|---|---|
| 50Mbps Full Fibre | 17 mins 25 secs |
| 100Mbps Full Fibre | 8 mins 42 secs |
| 250Mbps Full Fibre | 3 mins 29 secs |
| 500Mbps Full Fibre | 1 min 44 secs |
| 900Mbps Full Fibre | 58 secs |
| 1Gbps Full Fibre | 52 secs |
| 2.3Gbps Full Fibre | 23 secs |
What router do you get with 4th Utility?
4th Utility currently supplies new customers with an Icotera i4850-25 router. This is a dual-band, Wi-Fi 5 device that has four gigabit Ethernet and two USB/RJ-11 ports.
Can I use my own router?
Yes. You’re free to use an alternative router of your choice. 4th Utility recommends you let them know so they can supply a Bridge device free of charge to assist with connectivity.
This Bridge unit has its own power supply and basically works like an adapter, adding a fibre optic plug socket to your router’s Ethernet port.
Installation and availability
If a fibre optic socket isn’t in your home already, an appointment will be arranged with a CityFibre engineer.
This takes around 2-3 hours to complete, and someone over the age of 18 needs to be present. You should also seek the permission of the homeowner or landlord before installation.
4th Utility uses the CityFibre network, which already covers around 4.5 million UK homes and is expanding to 8 million. Most installations are in larger towns and cities, but coverage is growing fast.
Broadband Genie is the perfect place to check availability of 4th Utility deals. Pop in your postcode, and if you have availability, click ‘get deal’ to start your switch.
Reviews and reputation
4th Utility currently has an 'Excellent' score on Trustpilot, with encouraging customer reviews for phone support and price versus broadband speed.
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Have your say! Leave a review on our 4th Utility customer reviews page.
Social Tariff broadband
4th Utility’s Social Tariff plan has a £13.99 monthly cost for an average speed of 30Mb on a rolling 30-day contract.
- Claimants of Universal Credit, Income Support, Jobseekers allowance, Employment and support allowance or Pension Credit are eligible.
- No paper trails or credit checks. In fact, anyone living in a building that qualifies for this tariff can subscribe with no need to supply supporting documentation.
- Price competes well with BT Home Essentials, Virgin Media Essential Broadband Plus and Sky Broadband Basics.
Read our full guide to broadband social tariffs.
How does 4th Utility compare to other providers?
- Symmetrical speed means the upload and download speeds match. This isn’t the case for most of the leading full fibre providers and can be a huge bonus for gamers and streamers.
- With 12-month contracts getting rarer in the market, it’s nice for customers to have that option. It’s also very helpful to try a new service on rolling 30-day terms before signing longer terms.
FAQs
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Do I need a landline for 4th Utility deals?
No. 4th Utility is a full fibre (FTTP) provider, so it doesn’t use traditional phone lines.
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Does 4th Utility broadband offer deals for people on Universal Credit?
Yes, a social tariff plan is available for those on Universal Credit and other benefits including Income Support and Pensions Credit.
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Can I use my own router with 4th Utility?
Yes – and they’ll provide a free Bridge device to ensure compatibility.
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Do 4th Utility broadband deals include home phone add-ons?
Customers may add a ‘Digital Voice’ or VoIP phone service to any broadband package.
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How do I contact 4th Utility broadband customer service?
Call 0330 888 4050 or use the live WhatsApp chat via your online account.
Check if 4th Utility broadband is available in your area today and compare the latest deals in seconds.
It’s fast, free and could save you money on your next full fibre plan.