Whether you’re fed up with your current provider’s poor customer service, you aren’t getting the speeds you were promised or you feel it’s just time for a change, switching internet service provider (ISP) is something everyone has to do from time to time.
It’s a task that you’re probably dreading. And yet, with almost half of the UK requiring home internet to work, having a great provider has never been more important.
Fortunately, the process isn’t as complicated or time-consuming as it might feel. We’ll provide a step-by-step guide to switching providers further down this article but, first, let’s cover some of your most common questions on the topic.
When can I switch broadband?
You can technically switch broadband at any time. But if you don’t want to have to pay an early termination fee, you’re best waiting until your contract is up.
Exit fees can also be avoided if you’re leaving because your provider has not met their side of the deal – for example, if you are not getting the upload or download speeds that you were promised.
Your provider should be given the chance to fix these issues first. If they are unwilling or unable to do so, you are then free to choose a new broadband provider.
If you’re wondering when to switch for the best price, do it as soon as your fixed term ends. Once you go onto a rolling contract, it’s not uncommon for providers to increase their fees just because they can.
You’ll still have to give a notice period – usually a month – so speak to your provider as soon as possible to find out when your contract is up.
It’s worth bearing in mind that you can always try to haggle with your existing provider before you switch. However, if you are leaving because of service quality and not price, a cheaper deal won’t leave you much happier in the long run.
Do I need to let my provider know I’m leaving?
Most of the big names (including BT, Sky and TalkTalk) use the same Openreach network. When you change from one of these providers to another, you don’t need to contact your old provider to let them know you’re leaving. Your new provider will take care of that for you.
However, you might feel more comfortable if you also speak to both providers yourself. Hearing confirmation of the switch date from both ends can give you peace of mind that you won’t be left without internet unexpectedly. This is especially the case if you are a business broadband user or have to work from home.
For people who are moving to Openreach from a provider who doesn’t use the network, or vice versa, things will be a bit different. You’ll need to contact both parties individually to arrange the switch.
Once your old provider has confirmed which date your connection will be halted, your new provider can arrange for your new internet to be connected on the same date.
From April 2023, all providers must adhere to Ofcom’s One Touch Switch process. So, regardless of which network or technology your provider uses, you will only have to speak to your new provider to arrange the switch.
How long does it take to switch broadband?
It typically takes around two weeks to complete the process of changing your internet provider, but this is dependent on your ability to leave your old contract immediately.
For example, if you are keen to switch but have two months left on your existing contract, you might choose to wait it out rather than pay an early exit fee.
Other factors that can affect how long it takes to switch broadband include:
- The area that you live in
- The type of internet that you’re changing to
- The level of existing infrastructure/installation required
- Your choice of new provider
During installation, you’ll most likely be offline for around 30 minutes to an hour. Most providers will be able to time your new contract to start the same day that your old broadband is disconnected.
For this reason, it’s also important to confirm when your new internet can be installed by before cancelling your old internet.
Step-by-step: How to change internet provider
- Check your existing contract terms
Find out if you’re still tied to your current contract or if you can provide notice to leave without having to pay an early exit fee.
If you’re not getting the speeds you were promised, you might be able to leave early without paying. Otherwise, the option to pay an early termination fee is always there.
- Choose a new package
Figure out what matters most to you (e.g. superfast speeds vs all-inclusive bundles), then get searching to find out what’s available in your area. Using a price comparison website to compare packages is a good idea but comes with the caveat that not all providers (including Wave Internet) are on these websites.
It is, therefore, necessary to also do your own research before choosing an internet provider. This is especially true if you’ve traditionally struggled with the service provided by the big names or if you have specialist needs, such as being a rural broadband user.
- Purchase your new package
Once you’ve chosen your package, the next step is to buy it. If you’ve found a deal online then you can usually complete the purchase online, too. Occasionally, you might have to speak to your new supplier on the phone to sign up.
- Cancel your old contract
Your new provider will potentially be able to let your old provider know that you’re switching over. Double-check that this is the case and, if so, there’s nothing else you need to do at this stage.
If this isn’t the case, then you’ll need to speak to your old provider yourself (until April 2023 when Ofcom’s One Touch Switch process comes into effect).
- Wait till installation day
Your new and old providers should be able to time the change to happen on the same day. In the meantime, there’s nothing to do but wait.
After your broadband installation has taken place, it’s a good idea to check that everything is working as it should be while the engineer is still on site.
Changing your internet provider to Wave Internet
Wave Internet is a specialist internet provider. We use innovative technologies to provide internet solutions to groups who are typically neglected by big-name providers.
Our specialist solutions mean we’re not on the Openreach network, so installation is necessary for everyone who uses our technology. When you change providers to us, we’ll send out an engineer to survey your property and find the ideal solution for you.
Get in touch to find out more about what we offer.
