2007 was a year that saw more people than ever connect to the internet through broadband instead of dial-up. With an plethora of networks and service providers on the scene, there has never been so much consumer choice and awareness.

The last 12 months may have represented a turning point in the broadband industry. Consumers in the UK may be benefiting from favourable internet packages compared with other countries, but a question mark has also been raised and continues to remain into 2008 over the issue of broadband speeds and deals offered by companies.

As broadband becomes increasingly popular with all ages and demographics, and more easily accessible (although much still depends on where you live in regards to an internet exchange), the demand for high-speed and high-performance is revealing that speeds of “up to” may not be realistic for all users. By the end of last year Ofcom and the government intervened and made their feelings clear on how ISPs need to better inform customers on broadband speeds and clarify the deals they provide.

So, what does the new year hold in store for broadband?

Speeds, download limits and network infrastructure are subjects that look set to stay in the news throughout the next year, and are at the top of the consumers agenda. Mobile broadband and ‘tailored packages’ are also reaching out to new and specific users.

Yet, although broadband had its contentions in 2007, many companies are looking towards the future with the possibilty of an impending broadband revolution. Virgin Media is perhaps one of those companies to look out for in 2008. The past year saw Virgin trial 50Mbps broadband in particular areas of the country and they are widely reported to be launching the service commercially within the year.

It seems that for some, next generation broadband could be just around the corner.