• Before you switch...
• Switching made simple...
• Migrating broadband type

If you aren’t happy with your current broadband service, you can always consider switching broadband provider. There are many reasons why people stick with the same provider, but checking out different deals could save you money, and give you the service that you really want. If you are thinking about switching broadband provider, our broadband switch experts have put together a few tips, tricks and ideas to help you.

Before you switch...

The world of broadband is expending and evolving all the time, and within a year your initial broadband deal could be dated, but without communicating with your broadband provider, you can’t expect to enjoy the latest deals and offers. You may not need to switch your broadband provider, because one phone call could be the key to a better deal. Give yourself a little grounding in the current broadband deals by using comparison website Broadband Finder to compare broadband deals; providers will want to keep your custom, and when you tell them that you are thinking of switching broadband provider, they will work to keep you.  Your custom is valuable to them, and they will try to reward loyalty.

Do not feel obliged to stick with your current broadband provider, because the most important thing is your own customer satisfaction. You pay for the service, so it’s only right that you get the best deal, at a price that suits you. Once you have had a look at some of the deals out there, make the call to your provider and tell them what you want, and even throw a few prices at them to show you have done your research. They will almost certainly offer you something better than your current deal, simply to make you stay, but if you still aren’t happy, then it’s to make the switch.

Switching made simple...

One vital aspect of switching broadband provider is your own contractual obligations. If you have entered into an agreement, you will be expected to honour it and any break of that agreement will most likely be met with a hefty charge. Each provider varies, and if you happen to have one that will release you from the agreement without question then you are in luck, but this is a rarity.

If you have a minimum term with one provider, then it is usually best to stick with it until you are free to switch. It’s also a good idea to check the terms of the agreement yourself to see if any breach has taken place that favours your case for an early release from the contract. If you feel aspects of the service have not reflected the original terms and conditions, then you may be able to get out early without any penalty.

Before switching broadband provider you must get your MAC or Migration Authorisation Code from your original provider; this is an alphanumeric number which your new broadband supplier will need in order to instigate your switch. All you have to do is phone your old provider and ask for the code; they are obliged to give it to you and you should receive it within 5 days, with its validity lasting for 30 days.

Beware of the sales people working for your original ISP, or internet service provider. They will have some kind of sales retention team that will work to keep you, but if you have made up your mind then stick with it. If you have found the right deal elsewhere, then you should be assertive and push on with the switch. If your dissatisfaction is related to the actual service from the provider, or the speed of your connection, then you should certainly be looking elsewhere for stark improvements. The sales retention agent at your current provider will attempt to make promises of improvement, but if your mind is made up then be firm and simply ask for the MAC code.

It is also important that you do not cancel your current contract with immediate effect after you receive the MAC code; there’s a chance the switch could take over a week, and you probably do not want to be without broadband for any length of time.  Once you have the MAC code you can move forward with your new broadband deal, and start enjoying a service that suits you.

Migrating broadband type

You may be switching from ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) to cable, or vice versa. This is a change of broadband type, but should not cause any problems or significant delays. If you are moving to ADSL then you will need a landline, supplied by Sky or BT, and you will also need a modem that is ADSL compatible. Check with your new provider for any further details regarding technical requirements. If you are moving to cable then the provider will give you any information you need to know about the switch, but it should be very simple as the broadband is supplied by a pre-existing cable network. Check with your new provider for an indication of the time it will take for your new broadband to be installed, but this should be between 6 to 10 days, and in some cases up to 2 weeks. Don’t forget to shop around for the best deals, so compare broadband speeds and services before you make your decision.