It takes just 12 seconds of a webpage failing to load to trigger 'Wi-Fi rage', according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults found that people have only eight seconds of patience before frantically hitting refresh, with tempers fraying by the fourth attempt on average.
Two-thirds of adults have fallen victim to 'Wi-Fi rage', with broadband speed and connectivity issues becoming a persistent frustration. Among those affected, 34% said they encounter it several times a week. The biggest culprits include freezing video calls (39%), failed payments (29%) and crucial TV moments buffering (29%).
Common triggers and signal blackspots
Many people lose their cool when forced to use their smartphone as a hotspot due to broadband problems (16%), while the same number see red when they get booted out of an online game. Bedrooms proved to be the worst signal blackspot in the home (35%), while 11% struggle to maintain a connection while scrolling in the bathroom.
The research was commissioned by Community Fibre to mark the launch of its Black Friday sale, which will see new customers double their broadband speeds for the same cost.
Impact on Black Friday shopping
With Black Friday approaching, 48% of people believe dependable Wi-Fi is crucial to bagging the best deals, helping them steer clear of checkout issues (59%) and keep stress levels down while shopping (41%). The hunt for bargains has also seen 21% take a break from work to buy an item, while 19% have set alarms for the early hours of the morning to make sure they don't miss out.
With 37% planning to make a purchase during Black Friday or Cyber Monday this year, 57% will be scouring the sales for Christmas presents, while 29% hope to secure household essentials. A reliable connection is more important than ever, with 85% claiming Wi-Fi has become a necessity rather than a luxury, according to the stats by OnePoll.
Provider response
Peter Rampling, a spokesperson for the London-based broadband provider, said: "These findings underline just how fundamental reliable broadband has become to everyday life and how frustrating it can be when your Wi-Fi doesn't deliver.
"People now depend on their connection for everything from working and making payments to entertainment and staying in touch, so interruptions can have a significant impact."
Rampling added: "With demand on home broadband continuing to grow, households need a connection that can keep pace. Our Black Friday offer is an opportunity for Londoners to get an even faster connection that will deliver around the clock. And with support to help with any termination fees from your previous provider, now is a great time to switch."
