Speed is a pretty obvious factor in determining how well any online game will run. As a general rule, the more action orientated the game is, the more important the speed of your connection becomes. In the UK you're not exactly spoilt for choice when it comes to the speed of your connection, but make sure you look around anyway. Different providers really can make a difference. The main factor for anyone using DSL is the distance from your exchange, so the closer the better. Cable runs at advertised speeds and doesn't depend on distance, but only around half of UK homes can access this service.



Gamers don't always consider bandwidth usage but it can be nearly as important as the speed of your connection in the long term. What's the point of having a 50Mbit connection if you can't actually use the speed when you need it? Most ISPs have a ?fair use? policy which can vary from very lenient to incredibly harsh, so make sure you read the small print before you sign up to anything. Games themselves don't use up as much bandwidth as other internet applications, but if you regularly download patches, trailers and demos, you'll find it all adds up very quickly. If you're stuck with an ISP that slows you down after downloading a certain amount, downloading a bandwidth monitoring program or finding times when your ISP allows ?unlimited? downloads will help you keep track.

Alright, you've got an ISP that offers excellent speed and gives you all the bandwidth you need to keep up with the latest trends. The only thing you need to do now is make sure it stays that way. What many computer users don't realise is just how many different programs use up vital speed through automatic downloading, updates or streaming. Set the important programs to download late at night or early in the morning when you know you won't be playing any games. Make sure your PC will be switched on though. It's important to keep programs like antivirus updated. If any of your other programs update automatically, consider turning off the updates unless they are really needed. Finally, make sure you run regular scans for viruses and adware. On top of everything else, these programs are well known for ?stealing? your bandwidth.

UK gamers might not have access to the best technology around, but following these tips when looking for a new ISP and staying aware of your own bandwidth might just give you that split second advantage you need the next time you play your favourite game online.