Remote work doesn’t need huge download speeds — it needs consistency and decent upload speed. Here’s what actually matters.
Video calls (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet): Typically need only 3-5 Mbps upload per call, but stability matters more than raw speed — this is where full fibre’s consistent connection outperforms part-fibre or cable, especially during peak hours.
Cloud-based work (Google Drive, uploading large files, backups): Upload speed is the bottleneck here, not download. A package with a low upload allowance can make simple file uploads painfully slow, regardless of how fast your download speed looks.
Multiple people working from home in the same house: Bandwidth needs stack up fast — two people on video calls simultaneously, with background syncing and streaming, can strain a 40-50 Mbps package. 100+ Mbps with solid upload gives real headroom.
VPN use: Company VPNs can add overhead, occasionally reducing effective speed — worth having some buffer above your team’s minimum requirement rather than the bare minimum.
Recommended baseline:
- 1 remote worker, light video calls: 50-70 Mbps
- 1-2 remote workers, regular calls + uploads: 100-150 Mbps
- Multiple remote workers or heavy cloud/file work: 200+ Mbps with strong upload
Why full fibre specifically helps: Unlike part-fibre or cable, full fibre doesn’t slow down during evening peak hours when the whole street is home and online — useful if your working hours occasionally extend into early evening.