Empowering Rural Ireland: The Essential Role of Broadband on Farms
- Fastcom Broadband
- Jul 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 20
When we talk about broadband in rural Ireland, we are not just helping people in the farmhouse stream Netflix or send an email. This is something much more powerful: broadband that works on the farm, in the shed, at the calving pen, and beyond!
With over 40,000 farms now able to access fibre broadband through National Broadband Ireland (NBI) and Fastcom as a trusted retail partner, the future of Irish farming is becoming increasingly digital.
Why Broadband Has Become a Farm Tool
From small family farms to large-scale agri-businesses, the use of digital tools has become essential in everyday farming operations. And it’s not just a trend - it’s a shift.
“With two in every five farms connected to the NBI Network, the uptake reflects the growing importance of digital tools and services in modern farming.”
The numbers back it up: take-up among farms stands at 42.5%, significantly above the national average of 35%. Why? Because fibre broadband is no longer a nice-to-have. It's a working tool.
7 Ways Farmers Are Using Broadband On the Farm
1. Smart Farming Equipment in the Yard
From automated feeders to milking robots, modern sheds rely on connectivity. With farm broadband, farmers can control systems remotely, access reports, and fine-tune performance—all in real time.
2. Livestock Monitoring in Sheds and Fields
Wi-Fi-enabled cameras in calving or lambing sheds allow farmers to monitor activity via their phone. They can receive alerts and check on animals without disturbing them—especially during critical hours.
3. Tractor GPS and Field Mapping
Broadband powers precision agriculture, syncing machinery with cloud-based maps and data logs. Farmers can apply fertiliser, sow crops, or monitor soil with digital accuracy from the tractor cab.
4. Farm Security Systems
Outbuildings, machinery storage, and diesel tanks can be protected with cloud-connected CCTV and motion sensors. With fibre broadband, security footage can be accessed instantly, from anywhere.
5. Weight & Dosing Data Sync
Smart scales and dosing equipment can automatically log data, track animal performance, and store compliance records. This is only possible if there’s internet access in the yard.
6. Mobile Work on the Go
Updating herd records, video calling a vet, or sending invoices—farmers often need to work from wherever they are, not just the kitchen table. Reliable broadband lets them do it all on the move.
7. On-Site Compliance Reporting
Fibre broadband allows for instant uploads of reports, medicines administered, and herd movements. This helps meet compliance with the Department of Agriculture right from the farmyard.
Fibre Broadband is Closing the Rural Digital Divide
NBI has already passed over 367,000 homes, farms, and businesses, with over 129,000 premises connected and counting. The goal? To ensure that rural communities get the same digital benefits as cities.
That means:
Children on farms can access online learning.
Farmers can attend webinars or virtual marts.
Businesses on farms can run like any other SME.
All of this is now possible with Fastcom’s fibre broadband via the NBI rollout.
Check If Your Farm Is Eligible
Fastcom makes it easy for farmers to get connected. Here's how:
Visit Fastcom NBI here and enter your Eircode to check availability.
If you're eligible, contact Fastcom and we’ll handle your pre-order, installation, and activation.
Connect Your Farm. Power Your Future
With broadband now playing a central role in farm profitability, sustainability, and daily operations, it’s time to think of it as more than a household service.
At Fastcom, we understand rural needs—because we've been serving homes, farms, and businesses across Ireland for over 20 years.
Call us today on 0818 70 71 71 or visit www.fastcom.ie to get started.
The Future of Farming is Digital
As we look ahead, the role of broadband in agriculture will only grow. Farmers will continue to adopt new technologies that enhance productivity and sustainability.
Imagine a future where every farm is equipped with smart sensors that monitor soil health, crop growth, and livestock well-being. This future is not far away. With reliable broadband, farmers can access real-time data and make informed decisions.
Embracing Innovation
Innovation is key to thriving in today’s agricultural landscape. By embracing digital tools, farmers can improve efficiency and reduce costs. This not only benefits individual farms but also strengthens the entire agricultural sector.
Building Community Connections
Broadband also fosters community connections. Farmers can share knowledge and resources, collaborate on projects, and support each other. This sense of community is vital for rural areas, helping to combat isolation and promote growth.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In conclusion, broadband is more than just a utility; it’s a lifeline for modern farming. It empowers farmers to work smarter, connect with others, and thrive in a digital world.
Let’s embrace this change together. Join the broadband revolution and unlock the full potential of your farm today!
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