How to switch broadband

Switching is simpler than it used to be

Since One Touch Switching went live, moving broadband provider takes one conversation, not two. You sign up with the new provider and they arrange everything, including telling your old provider you are leaving. You no longer have to ring your current provider to cancel, and you should not be charged for overlapping service.

Before you switch

• Check you are out of contract. Leaving mid-contract usually means early-exit fees. Your provider must tell you when your minimum term ends.
• Know what you have now. Note your current speed, monthly price and what is included, so you can compare like for like.
• Check what is available at your address. Full fibre may now reach your street even if it did not a year ago.

The switch, step by step

• Compare deals. Look at speed, total monthly cost including line rental, contract length and any setup fee. Compare broadband deals for your postcode.
• Sign up with the new provider. They handle the switch and give you a go-live date.
• Watch for the switching notice. Both providers must send you details of the switch and any charges, with a short window to change your mind.
• Return old kit if asked. Some providers want their router back to avoid a charge.

Will you lose connection?

If you are staying on the same network (most providers use Openreach lines), there is usually little or no downtime. Moving to or from Virgin Media's separate cable network, or onto a new full-fibre line, may need an engineer visit and a short changeover.

Get the speed you need, not more

Do not overpay for headline speed you will never use. A couple streaming in HD needs far less than a busy family home. Our guide on what speed you need sizes it up, and a quick speed test shows what you are actually getting today.

The bottom line

Wait until you are out of contract, compare on total monthly cost rather than the advertised speed alone, and let One Touch Switching do the heavy lifting. The whole thing is designed to take one step from you, with very little downtime.