The gap between advertised broadband speeds and the true quality of service offered is growing, despite efforts by providers to improve internet bandwidth. 

Research by Ofcom shows that actual speeds have increased by more than 25 per cent to an average of 5.2 megabytes per second in the past year.

However, bold advertising claims mean that ‘up to’ speeds claimed by providers are becoming less realistic.

In April 2009, providers were collectively delivering speeds averaging 58 per cent of what was advertised. In May this year, that figure has fallen to 45 per cent.

Ofcom is introducing a new code of conduct which it hopes will encourage providers to describe the service offered in terms that reflect the true customer experience.