As with everyone currently working remotely during lockdown, I became aware of how a broadband connection really has become the most important utility coming into our house. I’d just moved a WiFi booster box to try to extend the range of signal to the top floor of the house where the kids were online with their remote learning from school, but in the process somehow destabilised the whole setup. The WiFi was intermittently dropping in and out, with download speeds being fine one minute then a snail’s pace the next. Chaos broke out immediately – my work Zoom calls were impossible, the kids’ online classes were being affected and, worst of all, it was severely impacting their Xbox and YouTube activity. An interruption of our running water supply would’ve been met with fewer complaints. Indeed, a survey across 8 European countries last year found that broadband was more important to people than holidays, favourite TV channels, chocolate and even sex!
