Switching broadband supplier can be simple, but there are a few things that you need to do before you can switch broadband supplier.
1. Make sure you are free of any existing contracts
The first thing that you need to do is ensure that you are outwith your contract period with your current broadband supplier. Basic broadband contracts tend to run for around 12 or 18 months. If you're no longer tied in, that's great, you're free to start saving! If you are still bound to an existing contract, then take a look at the cancellation policy as it may be the case that the cancellation charge that you face outweighs the money you could save by switching.
2. Get your MAC code
Once you've established you're able to switch broadband suppliers, there are two options you can take, use a MAC or do something called “cease and re-provide”, which essentially just means cancelling your current service and getting a new one!.
The MAC, or Migration Authorisation Code, is the code that allows you to switch from one broadband company to another. To get your MAC you have to call your present supplier, who then legally have to provide it within five working days, even if you owe them money. The only time they won't supply it is if the connection has already been cancelled, or if the account holder is deceased.
Sometimes providers won't be able to give you a MAC, in which case you must take the 2nd option – “cease and re-provide”. This means you have to cancel your existing broadband connection, and then wait for ten working days to ensure the broadband has been cleared. Once it has cleared from your phone line, you can contact your new provider and place a new order for broadband, which will take another ten working days to be ready.
If you have a cable service, such as Virgin, and want to switch to a provider that uses a phone line to provide broadband, such as BT, Tiscali, Orange or Sky, you don't need an MAC, all you need is an existing phone line.
3. Be wary about 'good deals' to persuade you to stay....
Be careful – as soon as you let your broadband provider know you want to leave, they may try to keep you by offering a seemingly good deal. If they do, make sure it's right for you before going with it. Either way, staying or leaving, you will end up with a good deal! If you're confused about the deal you are being offered, you can give one of our digital experts a call to discuss it.
4.Transfer to your new provider
Once you have got your MAC and given it to your new broadband provider, you will be signed up and your transfer will be arranged. Your new broadband provider will inform you of the transfer date in writing and you should get your new broadband in around ten days time. The day the transfer happens, your broadband will go down for around half an hour, but it shouldn't be much longer than that.
If you have any more questions, then don't forget our digital experts are available on the phone to answer any queries you may have.