Sky is dishing out a massive upgrade, but only if your postcode is on this list

If your broadband is struggling to keep pace, then you might want to check your postcode. It's just been confirmed that Sky is launching a massive internet upgrade that will beam rapid speeds right into living rooms. In fact, those signing up for the firm's new fibre broadband plans will get downloads as fast as 5Gbps.

At that rate, it would take just 5 seconds to download a full HD movie - that's around 20 times faster than ageing copper cables that still dangle above UK streets.

Sky has confirmed that there will be two new plans available. The first is Full Fibre 2.5 Gigafast+ and the second is a quicker Full Fibre 5 Gigafast+ option.

Once installed, Sky says customers will then get "the UK’s fastest broadband speeds from any major provider".

Along with that impressive speed boost, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) also says that users will get access to a new Gigafast+ router. This will feature improved WiFi 7 technology, which is capable of connecting more devices at once without slowing down.

This is clearly a huge boost for UK homes but there are some things to be aware of.

The first thing to check is whether you can get access. Sky says it is delivering the boost via CityFibre cables, which are only available in around 4.5 million homes. If you check your postcode here and your address is not on the list, you won't be able to sign up.

Next, it's worth checking that you really need these speeds, as only very heavy users will see the benefit. For example, a home with 2 people who watch the odd Netflix boxset can easily survive on standard 70Mbps speeds.

Finally, there's the price as this update won't be cheap. In fact, Sky has confirmed that costs will start from a hefty £70 a month and rise to £80 a month for those wanting the best Full Fibre 5 Gigafast+.

Speaking about the launch Sophia Ahmad, Chief Consumer Officer at Sky, said: “We’re proud to be setting a new standard in UK broadband. With speeds up to 5 Gbps, our new Full Fibre Gigafast+ packages make Sky the UK’s fastest major broadband provider. Combined with our existing full fibre range, we’re offering more choice than ever before.

"Powered by cutting-edge WiFi 7 technology, these plans deliver smarter, faster, and more reliable connectivity to homes across the country.”

And Greg Mesch, CEO of CityFibre, added: “Sky is making the most of CityFibre’s full fibre network to offer its customers fast and reliable Multi-Gig speeds and an outstanding online experience.

"This partnership is bringing more choice and better broadband to millions of homes on CityFibre’s nationwide, growing network – vital for how people live today and helping to deliver a healthy, competitive market for the long-term.”

If it sounds enticing, this upgrade should be available soon.