Two-thirds of UK adults have experienced 'Wi-Fi rage' after just 12 seconds of a webpage failing to load, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults found they have only eight seconds of patience before hitting refresh, with tempers beginning to fray by the fourth attempt on average.
Common triggers of frustration
Among those affected, 34% reported experiencing Wi-Fi rage several times a week. Freezing video calls (39%), failed payments (29%) and crucial TV moments buffering (29%) were the most common triggers.
Many also become irritated when forced to use their smartphone as a hotspot due to broadband difficulties (16%), while the same proportion lose their temper when kicked out of an online game.
Signal blackspots at home
Bedrooms were identified as the biggest 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 coincide with the launch of its Black Friday sale, which will offer new customers double their broadband speeds for the same price.
Reliable Wi-Fi essential for shopping
With Black Friday on the horizon, 48% of shoppers believe dependable Wi-Fi is crucial to securing the best deals, helping them avoid checkout issues (59%) and easing the stress of online shopping (41%).
The pursuit of bargains has led 21% to step away from work specifically to snap up an item, while 19% have set alarms in the early hours to ensure they don't miss out. With 37% intending to make a purchase during Black Friday or Cyber Monday this year, 57% will be trawling the sales for Christmas gifts, while 29% are hoping to pick up household essentials.
According to figures from OnePoll, 85% state that Wi-Fi has become a necessity rather than a luxury.
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." He 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."
