How to switch your broadband provider

It can be all too easy to stick with the same broadband provider for years on end, just because it’s “hassle-free”, or so you think. But is it really that hard to switch broadband providers? Of course not – it’s easy.

Don’t just settle for the same-old, same-old when you could benefit from a speedier service. Read on to find out what you need to consider when switching, alongside a step-by-step guide to help you on your way. You’ll be clued up in no time.

Why switch broadband provider?

So, why should you switch broadband provider, or even think about leaving your old one? Well, switching broadband providers can positively transform your time spent online in many ways – from faster internet speeds, a more reliable service or cheaper rates.

Here are two major reasons why people are tempted to make the move:

Slow internet speeds

Because of the pandemic, you might have started working from home a lot more and streaming your favourite series back-to-back on Netflix every night. This means, if your internet speeds are slow, you’ll be noticing them a lot more than you might have done previously.

Video calling your friends more and seeing a constant on-screen notification saying, “poor connection” is never fun, either. If you’re constantly struggling with slow internet, it might be time to compare broadband providers and start looking elsewhere for a new deal.

Bad customer service

Bad customer service is reason enough to take your business elsewhere. When your internet is playing up, all you want is for your broadband provider to offer solutions (and apologies, in some circumstances). That could mean a quick message to explain what’s causing your snail-pace internet speeds or updating you on pricing changes.

Even if you’ve been with your broadband provider a long time, or if you’re a loyal customer of many years, if your experience isn’t amazing then you may begin to realise the expiration date on your current contract is long overdue.

Changing broadband provider: Things to consider

If you’re thinking of waving goodbye and changing your broadband provider, you need to consider a few things first. You might not know where to start – but don’t worry, that’s what we’re here for.

Check your current contract

If you’re thinking about changing broadband provider, you need to check your existing contract as soon as possible. You’ll need to complete the minimum term with your current broadband provider before making the move. Otherwise, you could receive a hefty cancellation fee for leaving early.

If you’re unsure about your minimum contract length and want confirmation, just give the company you’re with a quick call to double-check. More importantly, ensure that the cancellation fee doesn’t outweigh the saving you’ll be making on a new contract.

Compare broadband providers

Before you make the switch, it’s essential that you compare broadband providers online. There are so many out there to choose from, and you need to make sure you’re opting for the right one.

Using a handy price comparison tool will help make this decision a lot easier. First, whittle down your options based on your priorities. Ask yourself what’s making you ditch your current provider and start from there. Is it that you want unlimited broadband? Superfast fibre speeds? A rolling contract? Or just a cheaper monthly bill? Then, let the results roll in.

How to change broadband provider

If you’re hoping to change broadband provider, the process is pretty straightforward.  However, how long it takes can vary, based on which company you choose.

For instance, Sky, BT, TalkTalk, Plusnet and NOW Broadband all run on the same network, whereas Hyperoptic, along with Virgin Media and Openreach, operate on a different network offering a full fibre connection. That means that the time you’ll wait to switch broadband providers depends on which service you’re switching from, and which provider you’re going to.

To get you off to a good start, we’ve provided some helpful tips on how to change broadband provider.

1. Check the broadband available in your area

Superfast fibre broadband should be available to you, but it’s always important to check before you make the switch. After all, you need to know what speeds and packages you’ll have access to.

Simply enter your postcode into an online postcode checker like Uswitch to find out the information you need, and what deals are offered in your area.

2. Pick a new provider

After sifting through the different broadband deals available, it’s time to bite the bullet and contact the new provider you have in mind. Just head to their website, or find their number to give them a quick call.

• Confirm all the details of the deal you’re interested in, including pricing, contract lengths and the internet speeds you’ll benefit from
• Organise your install (if needed) and pick a start date for your service. Then all that’s left to do is wait for the day to arrive and start enjoying your new connection

One thing to note when you’re changing broadband provider is that different providers do offer different services. For example, if you’re currently with Virgin Media, you’ll need to call them up to cancel your existing contract and organise the switch. They’ll then issue you with an end date, information on outstanding balances and will tie up any other loose ends.

Choose Hyperoptic

We’re a little biased, but Hyperoptic can meet all your expectations. You can even have a current provider (like BT) and our broadband running at once. This certainly helps if you’re worried about losing access to the internet when switching providers.

If you’re looking to change broadband provider, look no further. Sign up today, or discover more about our hyperfast unlimited broadband now.