In a significant leap forward, Lightning Fibre, the Eastbourne-based Internet Service Provider (ISP), has introduced a revolutionary “2.5Gbps symmetric residential broadband package.” Pioneering with upload and download speeds of 2000Mbps or more wired at the modem, the package is priced at £99 per month, offering subscribers unparalleled connectivity.
Technological Advancements:
Paul Thornton, Chief Technology Officer at Lightning Fibre, highlighted key technological enhancements accompanying the new broadband offering. The ISP has upgraded its Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) to the Adtran SDX 631 XGS-PON ONT, providing a more compact and energy-efficient device. Additionally, Lightning Fibre has deployed new routers, specifically the Zyxel EX5601, designed to be 2.5G ready. These routers cater to subscribers’ bandwidth-intensive needs with optimized bandwidth utilization. Incorporating beamforming technologies, the routers deliver optimal WiFi experiences and address issues related to dead zones.
Recent Achievements:
The launch of the 2.5Gb residential broadband package comes on the heels of Lightning Fibre’s recent achievements. The ISP was honored with the prestigious ‘Best Consumer ISP (<50k customers)’ ISPA Award on November 9th. Subsequently, the company marked another milestone by debuting its first TV advert from November 15th, airing on prominent channels like Sky TV, Virgin TV, ITVX, and AllFour. The advert, crafted by Eastbourne-based Smokescreen Visuals, was strategically placed through media buying collaborations with AdSmart and Meerkat Works.
Rob Reaks, Sales and Marketing Director at Lightning Fibre, expressed the significance of these milestones, stating, “It’s been a big month for us at Lightning Fibre. The ISPA win was fantastic and recognizes the focus we put on our customers, who are responding very positively to our new Full Fibre network.”
ISPA Award Recognition:
The ISPA Award Judges commended Lightning Fibre for its triumph in a highly competitive category, noting the company’s exceptional customer focus, community-oriented approach, and commitment to transparency. This acknowledgment reaffirms Lightning Fibre’s dedication to providing a superior customer experience.
Inclusive Tariff Options:
Earlier this year, Lightning Fibre took a proactive step towards digital inclusion by launching a £15 per month 30-day rolling contract for individuals on means-tested benefits. The ISP has streamlined the eligibility confirmation process through an API feed to the Department of Work and Pensions. Customers, including existing ones, can switch to the ‘social tariff’ without incurring early termination fees, demonstrating the company’s commitment to supporting vulnerable customers.
Future Offerings:
Looking ahead, Lightning Fibre plans to introduce a Virtual Landline (VoIP) service in January. The service will offer flexible options, including a Pay As You Go package for £6 per month plus 10p per minute or an inclusive plan (UK Landlines and mobiles) for £14 per month. Customers can seamlessly retain their existing phone numbers by porting them to the new service, albeit with a nominal fee.
Lightning Fibre’s unveiling of the 2.5Gb residential broadband package marks a significant milestone, solidifying its commitment to technological innovation and customer-centric services in the competitive ISP landscape.
