Last Updated on: 5th October 2026, 09:54 pm
Richard Dix, the founder and Managing Director of Rural Broadband, has partnered with KeySIM to provide temporary and ad hoc internet connectivity to rural locations. With over 40 years of experience in the IT industry, Dix has a strong background in technology and has continuously adapted to the industry’s changes.
His expertise in computer support, mobile broadband, fixed connectivity, event Wi-Fi, and broadcasting has led him to found Rural Broadband in 2000. Being based on his family farm in Heacham, West Norfolk, Dix has first-hand knowledge of the struggles faced by homes, farms, and businesses located in areas with limited or no access to reliable fixed-line services.
Rural Broadband specializes in delivering internet access to areas where traditional services are not available. They provide mobile broadband, FTTC solutions, and Wi-Fi for businesses and events, including festivals and county shows held in temporary locations such as fields.
In addition to Rural Broadband, Dix is also a director of KL1 Radio, serving West Norfolk, and is involved with local information platform Town and Around. His extensive experience in the practical application of technology in rural communities, businesses, events, and broadcasting makes him a valuable asset to the industry.
Through KeySIM’s multi-network IoT SIM cards, Dix now has another flexible option for temporary deployments. The SIM can connect to Vodafone, O2, EE, or Three in the UK, eliminating the need to carry and exchange multiple network SIM cards. Additionally, the SIM can be remotely directed to a selected mobile network using KeySIM’s Network Steerer. Its pay-per-megabyte pricing is particularly suitable for temporary internet access, ad hoc assignments, and occasional device connections.
Commenting on the partnership, Richard Dix, Managing Director of Rural Broadband, said, “I have worked with computers and communications technology for over 40 years, starting with a Sinclair ZX80 in 1980. Throughout the years, the technology has evolved, but the goal remains the same: finding the most practical solution for each customer and location. KeySIM is an excellent option for temporary internet access, events, and ad hoc work. We can now arrive with one SIM that has access to Vodafone, O2, EE, and Three, instead of trying to predict which network will work best. This flexibility is particularly valuable in the countryside, where coverage can vary significantly from one location to another. It complements well with the range of connectivity solutions we already provide.”
Graham Robinson, founder of KeySIM, also expressed his excitement about the collaboration, saying, “Richard has an exceptional depth of experience and has spent decades helping people and businesses overcome connectivity challenges in rural Norfolk. He understands that there is no universal solution to rural connectivity. KeySIM provides him with another practical tool, especially for temporary installations and ad hoc work, where access to all four major UK networks through one SIM can make a real difference.”
The partnership between Rural Broadband and KeySIM combines Dix’s extensive technical knowledge and understanding of rural communities with KeySIM’s flexible multi-network connectivity. It is set to provide temporary and ad hoc internet connectivity to rural areas, bridging the digital divide and improving access to reliable internet services.
