End of the line: BT to cut off its dial-up internet

 

Agency
Friday 23 August 2013 17:43 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

BT will close its dial-up internet service on September 1.

The move has raised fears that customers in rural areas could be left without a web connection.

But the telecoms giant has assured clients they will not lose out and can either switch to broadband or an alternative service.

These options are cheaper than the old dial-up - or narrowband - service, BT said.

The company contacted several thousand customers in June to warn of the changes.

Those who cannot get broadband - an estimated 1,000 homes - were offered another narrowband service.

A spokesman said: "BT can confirm it is closing its dial-up service in September.

"This is a legacy product that is only used by a tiny number of customers, most of whom can easily transfer on to broadband for a cheaper price.

"Our estimate is that only 1,000 of the current customers will be unable to access broadband following the change but they will continue to have dial-up access via PlusNet should they choose to, once again for a cheaper price.

"No one is being left without the option of an alternative service."

According to BT, PlusNet's narrowband service is £2.26 per month cheaper than its own offering.

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in