The Internet Services Providers’ Association has today launched the 23rd ISPA Awards – the ISPAs.
The ISPAs – the UK internet industry awards – are the longest running and most respected awards in the internet industry. Since 1999 the ISPAs have been rewarding and celebrating the best that the UK ISP sector has to offer.
The past 12 months have proven the resilience of the UK ISP sector, and it has been essential in supporting the UK during the pandemic; allowing businesses to keep running, helping people access important information and keeping Britain connected. The ISPAs will celebrate the ISPs who have gone the extra mile to support customers, improve their service and push the boundaries for innovation in the UK sector.
Registration (via https://ispa.thinkbroadband.com/) is now underway across 12 categories until 31st March, after which entrants will undergo rigorous testing from our technical partners thinkbroadband.
This year sees the introduction of a new Best Ultrafast ISP category to which reflects the changing nature of the UK network as gigabit capable broadband and ultrafast speeds become more readily available for consumers. The full list of categories can be seen below:
Best Rural ISP
For providers that are providing broadband to rural / hard to reach areas, and category is technology neutral.
Best Business ISP – Sponsored by EPS Global
For the ISP which provides the best broadband service for businesses.
Best Consumer ISP – Sponsored by Netgem TV
For those ISP offering broadband connections of 30 Mbps or above to residential consumers.
Best Ultrafast ISP
For providers offering ultrafast broadband services (defined as 100Mbps or above). The category is open to those whose customer base include a majority of ultrafast speeds and products to show real world testing average over 100 Mbps.
Best Customer Service
Recognising firms who are providers of internet services that provide customer service to businesses or consumers.
Best Cyber Security
For providers of internet services and cyber security companies that help deliver provide a more secure Internet experience.
Best Customer Solution
For the ISP who has provided a particularly innovative technological solution to a complex customer issue
Best Hosted Service
For the best provider of hosting services to consumers or businesses.
Best VoIP Award – Sponsored by Magrathea
For the providers offering Voice over Internet Protocol services.
Best Infrastructure Provider – Sponsored by Fibrain
For the best firm that provides internet access infrastructure across the UK.
Best Partnership
This category is open to entrants who have shown excellent partnerships to deliver tangible change to the Internet industry, to a community, to a regulatory or infrastructure related matter. This award recognizes the success of the partnership in driving results. The partnership could involve ISPs, community organisations, local bodies or interest groups.
Social Impact Award
For the company that has used the Internet to deliver a positive social impact.
ISPA Chair Andrew Glover commented: “The last twelve months have been a testing time for us all, but there is no doubt that the importance of the UK internet industry for all of our day to day lives has been proven. From the continued strength of the network to key workers continuing to go out every day to build networks and support customers, the sector can be very proud of what it has achieved. As ever, the ISPAs celebrate this work, and are a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the breadth and depth of the innovation in the sector. We would encourage all ISPs to apply for these awards and hopefully join us for a fun night of celebration in November, whether that be physically or virtually!”