Broadband prices are changing all the time, which means you could get a much better deal if you switch to a new provider.
But just how easy is it to switch broadband?
We’ll show you how simple switching broadband providers can be, as well as what to look out for when making the change.
When switching broadband providers, weigh up the pros and cons of your current deal vs the competition
Ofcom’s ‘one touch’ switching process makes it easier than ever to change internet provider
Compare deals before you find a new broadband provider. Pay attention to key factors such as speed, download caps and other charges
Watch out for disconnection fees and always check the small print for any hidden clauses
There are many reasons why you should consider switching broadband providers, including better service, faster speeds, and greater value for money.
If you’re at the end of your contract, you’ll probably be on a rolling deal with the offer you signed up to years ago. You can almost certainly find something better now.
Lots of broadband providers save their best deals for new customers. So it's worth switching once you're out of contract.
To switch broadband, follow these easy steps:
You should only switch your internet supplier when the minimum term has come to an end. While you can technically switch broadband at any time, if you’re still under contract, you will probably have to pay a hefty cancellation fee.
Most providers will outline specific terms clearly in your contract. But you can always contact their customer service team to check.
Enter your details on a comparison tool, such as Go.Compare, to see what deals are availablein your area.
You can then filter the results to find the right broadband provider for you.
Once you’ve seen a deal that ticks all your boxes, pick a date that works for you and arrange to have your new broadband go live. An engineer visit may be necessary to set some things up.
Most of the time, your new provider will handle the switch from start to finish, including informing your current provider. You’ll also receive a brand-new router, either via post or when the engineer comes to install your new connection.
It is also possible to switch broadband via Ofcom’s 'one touch’ switching process, depending on which network you’re with. Customers who use Openreach (which includes BT, Sky and TalkTalk) can take advantage of this service.
Once the broadband switching process has started, you’ll receive written confirmation from your old and new providers. If you change your mind, you can always cancel the switch, which is usually free of charge if you’re within the cooling off period. However, if you cancel after this, fees will likely incur.
An added safeguard is that your providers will keep a record of your consent to switch broadband. This protects you against ‘slamming’, where your network provider is changed without your knowledge or permission.
Ofcom planned to roll out an improved version of one touch in April 2023, which included cable and full-fibre customers. However, this has been delayed due to internet service providers missing the planned launch date of 14th March 2024 with a revised launch date yet to be announced. Once implemented, you can swap from Openreach to Virgin Media, or Hyperoptic to Community Fibre seamlessly without the need to contact your current provider to cancel. This’ll make switching even easier, no matter your network or broadband technology.
If you plan on switching, here’s what you should look out for:
Remember to pick a broadband service that's fast enough for you - but don’t pay for more than you need.
Also, keep in mind that the advertised speed of your potential new internet provider is the maximum you could get. In reality, it may be considerably slower (especially during peak times).
Keep in mind that where you live will impact the type of broadband you can get. For instance, your postcode may not support fibre broadband, so this option will be unavailable to you.
It’s vital that you compare deals based on your actual address, otherwise you might waste time and end up disappointed.
Discover great broadband deals in your area with our handy comparison tool.
Before switching broadband providers, give some thought to the type of broadband your potential new network is offering.
In the UK, the most common types of fixed-line broadband are:
Different broadband types require different installation methods, and you’ll almost certainly find that one is more suitable for your home. You might prefer to switch to a broadband type that can be connected easily and with minimal disruption.
Whether a capped package will save you money depends on the type of broadband user you are. If you regularly stream movies and play games, unlimited broadband is likely to be cheaper.
Some broadband providers offering shorter contracts (less than 12 months) may charge you an exit fee if you cancel. However, a shorter contract might suit you better, particularly if you’re renting or if you live in student accommodation
When switching broadband providers, there are charges that need to be factored into your budget, such as:
Always remember to check the small print of any new broadband contract for hidden costs.
There are some broadband deals available that offer extra bonuses, like free gifts or TV channels. These may also include reward schemes, vouchers and even gadgets to suit your household or personal needs.
Try not to get blindsided by freebies. Remember that a better broadband deal is your overall end goal with switching.
Other things to bear in mind when switching broadband provider include:
If your original contract has expired and you haven’t signed up to a new one, you should be able to switch right away. But it’s a bit more complicated if your contract is still active. To escape without a hefty exit fee, you will need to be outside of the contract’s minimum term.
This is the time period during which you’re locked into the contract with your existing supplier. Its length will depend on how long your deal runs for. But it normally kicks in once your cooling off period expires and will last for between 12 to 24 months. To check if you’re within this period, it’s best to call your existing provider.
If you decide to leave during the minimum term, it’s likely to cost you £100s. Under Ofcom rules, providers can charge customers up to 100% of the value of the remaining monthly payments, minus the amount they save by not having to supply the service anymore.
So, it’s normally worth sticking with it until your minimum term ends. If you’re desperate to leave your current deal, look at whether the savings you’d make after switching would make up for the exit fees. Sometimes, another supplier may offer to buy your existing provider out of your contract. But accepting this sort of offer may give you a weak hand when it comes to haggling with your provider.
You can only escape the minimum term without facing a penalty if the service you’re receiving is below the standards set out in the contract. For example, if your provider is not giving you the broadband speed it promised it would. You may also be able to get out early if your provider increases prices within the agreed contract term – something that gives you a 30-day window to decide whether you should switch. But this only applies if your provider hasn’t mentioned anything about mid-contract price rises in your terms and conditions.
The switching process usually takes no more than two weeks. You’ll be given a date and time for when your new provider will deliver your router and/or come to fit it for you.
If you’re switching between Openreach providers, it won’t usually be necessary for an engineer to come to your home. It’s often just a case of plugging it into a socket and your internet connection point. But if you’re switching to Virgin Media from an Openreach provider, for example, an engineer will usually need to pay a visit to complete the installation process – something that’ll take them one to two hours.