Essential 500 + Digital Line
Essential broadband • 24 months
Basics brilliantly done. Essential.
Fast, reliable and secure wi-fi. All you need to provide top customer service. Kit arrives in the post that you can set up yourself, easily.
With BT, you get more than just the basics
Work almost anywhere
Easily control your network security
Get our fastest speeds with Essential
Your speed needs guaranteed
Itching to get online? Be online tomorrow
Product carbon footprint
This product’s carbon footprint starts at 118kg CO2e — about the same as driving an average petrol car for 611 miles. We're always working on ways to cut down the carbon emissions from our products.
Essential 500 + Digital Line Benefits
Minimum Speed Guarantee
If you're not getting the speeds we promised you, cancel with no early exit fee.
Guest Wi-Fi
Give your customers, clients or guests free Wi-Fi, separate from the one you use.
Wi-Fi hotspots
Work almost anywhere. You'll have access to over 5 million Wi-Fi hotspots across the UK.
Content controls
Control what websites people can visit while using your Wi-Fi.
Web protect
Get a heads up when you're about to visit a website suspected of being malicious.
Compare BT business broadband plans
Check the benefits you’ll get with our broadband plansFrequently asked questions
Business broadband and fibre
What is business broadband?
Whether your business is just starting up or growing rapidly, staying connected with fast and reliable broadband is essential. But business broadband is about more than just pure internet connectivity. For example, it powers VoIP phone systems, enables website hosting, and sharing files between locations quickly and securely.
How much does business broadband cost?
We have many different business broadband packages and dedicated internet line options available. Prices vary according to package type, contract length and special offers.
The best way to get an indicative price is to first check which packages are available at your location. You can do this by entering your postcode at the top of the page and then clicking ‘check availability’.
What kind of broadband can I get?
Based on your address we’ll either supply you with full fibre broadband, part fibre broadband or a copper broadband connection. Enter your postcode and we’ll check what’s available at your business address. We’ll show you what broadband speeds and packages are available.
Can I get a dedicated secure fibre connection, above the standard option?
If you don't want to share the network with anyone else, and need faster connectivity, then our BTnet leased line service might be right for your business.
A leased line gives you a dedicated connection between your premises and the local exchange. This means you don't share your bandwidth with anyone else and your connection won't be disturbed. You can count on equally fast upload and download speeds, no matter the time of day, whether you’re sending huge files or running multiple apps.
A leased line expert will need to speak with you to build a quote. BTnet installation is always subject to survey.
How does BT keep your business connected?
BT is the network the UK relies on, and we invest more than any other network provider in the country. With coverage across the UK, we’ll keep your teams connected and your business running smoothly. Plus, we’re here for you whenever you need us, with round-the-clock support from a team of dedicated experts.
With a BT business broadband ‘Enhanced’ package, you’ll also benefit from Hybrid Backup. If there’s ever a problem with your broadband, you’ll be automatically switched to 4G.
What is the difference between home and business broadband?
As your business grows, the demands on your internet connection grow too. Business broadband is specially tailored to meet the needs of a business, rather than a home user. Our packages supply you with business-grade service. This allows you to benefit from service level agreements, Static IP requirements, IT support, and a range of products that will help your business perform at its best.
All our business broadband products also include free Guest Wi-Fi which is separate from your business Wi-Fi. This means your customers, clients and guests can access free Wi-Fi without using your own business Wi-Fi.
Can I get business broadband at home?
You can get business broadband for your home. For example, you may want business broadband at home if you are self-employed and use your home as your office.
Can I claim broadband as a business expense?
You may be able to claim broadband as a business expense, but there are specific rules which you’ll have to follow.
For example, if you are self-employed and work from your home, you may have to work out the amount you use your broadband for business and for personal use.
For more information about claiming broadband as a business expense, visit the gov.uk website.
Digital phone lines
What is a digital phone line?
A digital phone line allows you to make and receive calls like you’ve always done. The difference to a traditional line is that your calls are made over the internet instead of telephone wires.
You can use the Cloud Voice Express app on your phone. This allows you to use your business number wherever you are.
If you want a handset, it needs to be supplied by BT. You will receive a compatible cordless handset for your office if you upgrade to Unlimited UK Calls, or you can purchase an additional handset.
Why do I need a digital phone line?
In 2025, all traditional phone lines will be switched off. They will be replaced by digital phone lines as part of the digital switchover.
While the switchover won’t take place until 2025, we’re no longer selling traditional phone lines to make sure you’re digital ready.
Can I get a digital phone line?
You can get a digital phone line as long as you have a compatible mobile phone to download the Cloud Voice Express app.
The Cloud Voice Express mobile app is available on manufacturer-maintained versions of the following operating systems:
- iOS
- Android
Office phones are also available. Upgrade to Unlimited UK Calls to receive an inclusive business phone, or you can buy one outright.
Can I use my old phones with a digital phone line?
Unfortunately, your old traditional phones will not be compatible with a digital phone line.
You can use the Cloud Voice Express mobile app to make and receive calls. Or you can upgrade to Unlimited UK Calls and you will receive a compatible cordless handset for your office.
Why is a digital phone line better?
Digital phone lines have all the same features traditional phone lines had with the added benefit that you can make and take calls wherever you are.
You will also get calling features included in the package which used to cost extra with traditional phone lines.
What will happen with my new digital phone line when I move?
You can take your digital phone line with you when you move. You will be able to keep the same phone number and use the same phones.
You’d simply need to inform us when and where you move to. It may take different forms, but you’ll no longer be tied to a specific exchange area.
If I only want broadband, do I need a phone line too?
In most areas, you will be able to get broadband without a phone line.
You can see what’s available at your address by entering your postcode at the top of the page and then clicking ‘check availability’.
Are digital phone lines easy to set up and use?
Digital phone lines are simple to set up. Simply download the mobile app, sign in and you’re good to go.
If you upgrade to Unlimited UK Calls, you’ll also receive a compatible cordless phone for your office. Instead of plugging the phone into a socket on your wall, you simply plug it into the back of your Smart Hub. Making and receiving calls is identical, but you have additional portals and apps available to you.
We have dedicated help guides and teams on standby to help you if you’re stuck. There is also lots of self-install content available to you when your order is placed.
Can I still get a traditional phone line?
Due to the 2025 digital switchover, we are no longer selling traditional phone lines.
If you have a dependency on a product that is not compatible with a digital phone line, please call us on 0800 084 1782.
Ordering for the first time
How do I know if I am placing the right order?
Simply enter your address, and phone number if you have one, at the top of the page and then click ‘check availability’. After that, you can choose from the options available at your location.
You will be able to add anything else you need to your order in the ‘your basket’ once you’ve selected the broadband you want.
How will I know if an engineer is needed?
We will let you know if an engineer is needed. We can check what is and isn't live within your location and identify the best way to provide your service.
Why is there an installation charge when there is already a socket there?
Even if there is already a socket at your location, additional work may be needed within the exchange, network or cabinets to provide your service.
How long can installation take?
Usually, it takes around 14 working days for us to activate your broadband. In the order journey, we’ll show the available dates and time slots for an engineer to visit and set up your broadband.
However, you can get connected as soon as the following day if you have Hybrid Backup. This gets you connected to EE’s 4G network while you’re waiting for your broadband to be activated.
Switching from another provider
What is the switching process?
You can switch your broadband to BT Business in three simple steps.
- Place your order - You can search for what’s available in your location by entering your postcode at the top of the page and clicking ‘check availability’.
- Well contact your current provider - You don’t need to tell them you’re switching as we’ll do it for you.
- We’ll get you up and running - We’ll let you know when the switch will take place. Typically, you could be without a broadband connection for about 30 minutes on the day your switch takes place.
It'll take at least ten working days for us to switch your broadband service. During this period your existing service will continue.
Exit Charges
If you are switching your phone number and internet service, your current supplier should notify you if any charges are applicable.
What information will I need when I switch provider?
You will need to tell us what you want and the address of where you want it.
We may also need:
- Your company details
- Your contact details
- Your personal details to carry out credit checks if appropriate
- Your payment details – which are encrypted securely for your protection
How long does switching provider take?
Switching provider takes a minimum of 10 working days. During this period, your existing broadband service will continue.
Running other systems on a digital phone line
Can I have an alarm with a digital phone line?
Alarm systems that run off your internet connection or over a mobile network are available. Such alarms do not need a traditional phone line. However, some alarm systems are dependent on a traditional phone line.
If you think your alarm system will not work with a digital phone line, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Can I run a personal care system or pendant on a digital phone line?
Some personal care systems and pendants are compatible with digital lines. However, others require the use of a traditional phone line and cannot run on a digital line.
If your personal care system or pendant will not work with a digital phone line, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Can I have a digital phone line in a lift?
A digital line is not suitable for a lift service. If you have a lift which is dependent on a traditional phone line, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Can I run my London Oyster card machine over a digital phone line?
London Oyster card machines are not compatible with a digital phone line.
If you have a London Oyster card machine, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Will my existing phone extensions work on a digital phone line?
Your existing traditional phone line extensions will not work with a digital phone line. If you require additional phones to run off your new digital line, you can purchase additional handsets.
Are there any other products I need to check are compatible before I buy?
You might need to check other, more traditional, 3rd party products before purchase. For example: fax; franking; gate entry; magnified bells used in warehouses and loud environments; and older alarms, card payment, care or lift systems.
If you have a product or system which may not be compatible with a digital phone line, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Can I use an EPOS system with a digital phone line?
Currently, you can only use an EPOS (electronic point of sale) system that runs over the internet and is not dependent on a phone number.
Your digital phone line will not be compatible with restaurant and takeaway systems which are used to remember customers details or previous orders based on telephone numbers or online orders.
If you have a product or system which may not be compatible with a digital phone line, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Can I run a card machine (PDQ) on a digital phone line?
Many card machines run over the internet or a mobile network and are not reliant on a traditional phone line, but some require a traditional phone line.
If your card machine (PDQ) is reliant on a traditional phone line, please call us on 0800 078 3836.
Product carbon footprint
What is a product carbon footprint?
A product's carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas emissions it produces. It includes the extraction of raw materials, production, a 5-year lifespan, disposal and recycling.
How is this product’s carbon footprint calculated?
The carbon footprint shown for this product is based on the main hardware included. The actual product carbon footprint may be higher depending on the type of Smart Hub used and any additional products you buy.
We use product carbon footprint data which is calculated according to the ISO Greenhouse Gas Assessment Standard for the Life Cycle Phase of Products and Services. These calculations are in line with GHG Protocol methodology.
Billing
When will I get my first bill?
You should receive your first bill within 7 days of your full service going live. Please note that this is when your full broadband service has started rather than when you receive your Hybrid Backup device.
What will my first bill look like?
Your first bill will have your first full monthly or quarterly charge – depending on your preference.
It may include charges for a smaller partial period as well. This is to cover the period from when your service was activated to the beginning of your first full month or quarter. A charge like this will only be applied to your first bill.
You first bill may also include any on-off charges, such as delivery or installation, which apply.
Things you need to know
Terms, conditions and legal stuff
Terms and conditions
Things you need to know
Terms and Conditions apply. Minimum period of service applies. £9.95 (ex VAT) postage and packaging and connection charges starting from £10.00 (ex VAT) may apply. Some BT Business Broadband lines require a BT Business phone line. Your personalised offer(s) are available for 30 days from the date of this email after which they may no longer be available. Our agents will be able to discuss other pricing options with you.
BT Business Broadband 6 Month Half Price Black Friday Sale 2024 Fibre 76 Essential Broadband and Digital Line
Fibre 76 half price for 6 months at £19.98 then reverting to £39.95 thereafter from 18/11 -29/11. Price excludes 20% VAT. £9.95 hub delivery charge applies £0 broadband connection fee applies. Your broadband service is subject to terms and conditions found under the BT Bundles heading at https://business.bt.com/terms/ under the Broadband and Internet dropdown. You will be subject to a minimum contract term and at the end of this minimum contract term you will pay the full monthly bundle price – see Section 59, Part 2 of the BT Price list found at www.bt.com/pricing. The monthly price shown will increase from April 2025 every year by the Consumer Price Index rate of inflation published in January that year plus 3.9%. See www.bt.com/terms for details.
BT Business Broadband 6 Month Half Price Black Friday Sale 2024 Fibre 150 Essential Broadband and Digital Line
Fibre 150 half price for 6 months at £22.48 then reverting £44.95 thereafter from 18/11 -29/11. Price excludes 20% VAT. £9.95 hub delivery charge applies and £0 broadband connection fee applies. Your broadband service is subject to terms and conditions found under the BT Bundles heading at https://business.bt.com/terms/ under the Broadband and Internet dropdown. You will be subject to a minimum contract term and at the end of this minimum contract term you will pay the full monthly bundle price – see Section 59, Part 2 of the BT Price list found at www.bt.com/pricing. The monthly price shown will increase from April 2025 every year by the Consumer Price Index rate of inflation published in January that year plus 3.9%. See www.bt.com/terms for details.
Standard prices apply from month 25. All monthly prices shown increase from April 2025 with inflation, plus 3.9%. Read the BT bundle terms for your broadband service (PDF, 151KB).
Speed Estimates
Several factors can affect your speed (such as distance to the street cabinet). To check the speed at this location visit: www.business.bt.com/products/broadband. The speed ranges we show are estimates based on business peak time between 12.00 and 14.00. The estimates take into account congestion on the network at these times. Your actual broadband speeds depend on a number of factors, including distance from the exchange, your equipment, the quality of your line, the number of people connected at the same time, and whether Wi-Fi is being used. It can take up to 10 days for your line to settle at its maximum stable speed.
Minimum Speed Guarantee
Before your service starts, we will provide you with the Minimum Guaranteed Access Line Speed and an estimate of the upload and download speed you may expect. If after 10 days from the start of your service your speed is regularly at or below this speed, you may contact BT and BT will try to fix it. If BT is unable to fix it within 30 days, you can terminate your service without paying any charges (other than for any service already received) but you must return any BT Hub. Please see minimum guaranteed download speed for more information.
Hybrid Speed Boost
Hybrid Speed Boost add-on available to new or resigning BT Business Broadband customers on ADSL (copper) access lines only. Not available on fibre. Suitable EE 4G network coverage (as advised by BT), Smart Hub 2 router and Hybrid Connect device required. Average speed boost based on tests showing median uplift of 20Mbps in download speeds (rounded to the nearest whole Mbps) over a 24 hour period. Uplift in speed is not guaranteed and any uplift will vary depending on your indoor EE 4G Network coverage, the time of day and the number of people using the network.
Hybrid Backup and Always Connected Guarantee
If your Hybrid Backup or 4G Assure service fails to activate within 30 minutes of you reporting a fixed line fault to us, leaving you without a broadband connection, you may be eligible to receive £60 compensation.
To be eligible for compensation you must report a fixed line failure in the correct manner. You’re restricted to one compensation claim during your contract term. Compensation will be paid once the fixed line fault is resolved.
Hybrid Backup and next day set connection
We deliver Hybrid Backup the next day if your order is placed by 12pm Monday to Friday and you pass credit checks. Orders placed at the weekend will be delivered on Tuesday, or Wednesday for bank holidays.
Complete Wi-Fi Guarantee
The Complete Wi-Fi Guarantee is valid for a period of 6 months from the Service Start Date. The Complete Wi-Fi Guarantee will cover the main building at your Site, but will not cover any Broadband faults or any outbuildings or extra sites. If your Complete Wi-Fi fails to provide a strong signal, BT may send you up to five additional Wi-Fi Discs. If you have three or more Wi-Fi Discs, you can request for a BT engineer to visit your Site to maximise performance. If your Complete Wi-Fi still fails to provide a strong signal, you will be entitled to cancel the Complete Wi-Fi add-on during the guarantee period and claim a refund of up to a maximum of 6 months’ previous charges for the Complete Wi-Fi add-on. If you cancel the Complete Wi-Fi add-on under the complete Wi-Fi Guarantee, your BT Broadband plan will continue unaffected. You must return all Wi-Fi Discs to BT. For full terms and conditions, please refer to the BT Business Broadband Schedule for the General Terms.
Complete Wi-Fi Plus Guarantee
The Complete Wi-Fi Plus Guarantee is valid for a period of 6 months from the Service Start Date. The Complete Wi-Fi Plus Guarantee will cover the main building at your Site, but will not cover any Broadband faults or any outbuildings or extra sites. If your Complete Wi-Fi Plus fails to provide a strong signal, BT may send you up to five extra Complete Wi-Fi Plus Devices. If you have two or more Complete Wi-Fi Plus Devices, you can request for a BT engineer to visit your Site to maximise performance. If you have taken Complete Wi-Fi Plus as an add-on and your Complete Wi-Fi Plus still fails to provide a strong signal, you will be entitled to cancel the Complete Wi-Fi Plus add-on during the guarantee period and claim a refund of up to a maximum of 6 months’ previous charges for the Complete Wi-Fi Plus add-on and your BT Broadband plan will continue unaffected. If you have been provided with Complete Wi-Fi Plus as a standard component of the BT Broadband Pro plan and your Complete Wi-Fi Plus still fails to provide a strong signal, you will be entitled to terminate your Contract for the Broadband Service.
You must return all Complete Wi-Fi Plus Devices to BT. For full terms and conditions, please refer to the BT Business Broadband, Superfast, Ultrafast and Hyperfast Schedule for the General Terms.
Complete Wi-Fi Plus
Average Wi-Fi speed increase in a four room premises for Complete Wi-Fi Plus vs BT Smart Hub 2 with one Complete Wi-Fi disc, Wi-Fi 6 enabled devices needed.
Fast fixes on faults / Prompt Care
Prompt Care: We aim to fix faults reported before 21.00 Monday-Saturday or any time on Sundays or on public holidays by 23.59 on the next weekday (or Saturday). This is covered by the broadband Customer Service Compensation Scheme. See information on compensation scheme at https://business.bt.com/compensation-scheme-broadband/. Standard compensation will be one week's rental credit for each day (or part day) past the target fault fix time. Compensation claims are capped at 12 days. Exclusions apply. Full terms for the Broadband Customer Service Compensation Scheme can be found at www.bt.com/terms under the Broadband and Internet Services section.
Expert Set Up
Free visit is for a 90 minute duration only. To receive a free 90 minute site visit with your Enhanced package, you must select it at point of sale. After this, it’s a standard £60 charge. We have up to 3 months from the time your order is placed to fulfil your expert set up order, and it is offered free at our discretion. We have the right to cancel this at any time. Engineer can refuse entrance onto site if they feel unsafe at any time.
Only available in mainland UK. Full engineer job list can be found here: BT Expert Setup. Subject to the BT Expert Set up T&Cs.
Cloud Voice Express app
The Cloud Voice Express app requires the latest iOS or Android operating system and an internet connection.
All IP Voice Products
In the event of a power cut, you won’t be able to make calls on a digital network. Extra support may be available if you don’t have access to a mobile phone or you are worried about being able to call emergency services.
Unlimited calls on Cloud Voice Express
Calls to UK landlines and mobiles are free for up to an hour. If your call lasts longer than an hour, then you pay by the minute. Simply hang up the call and call back within each hour. You'll find the call rates to UK landlines, mobiles and international destinations in Section 56, Part 18, Subpart 12 of the BT Price List. See your terms and conditions for more information found at business.bt.com/terms under the ‘IP Communications’ heading.
Advanced Security Controls:
Content Controls and Web Protect are security features, included as standard with BT Broadband. Both services are switched off by default and will require the customer to activate them via their ‘My Account’ portal. More information relating to BT Broadband Network Security terms and conditions can be found at business.bt.com/terms under the ‘Broadband and Internet’ heading.
CPI
The monthly price shown will increase from April every year by the Consumer Price Index rate of inflation published in January that year, plus 3.9%. See www.bt.com/terms for details. For more information please go to bt.com/business/annualpriceincreases.
General
Prices exclude VAT of 20%. Subject to credit check, business registration and a minimum term. Go to https://business.bt.com/terms for full T&Cs.
Get in touch
Sales
0800 916 0832
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Billing
0800 800 156
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Support
0800 800 154
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