Check broadband deals available in your area.
Pop in your postcode to compare your options and find the best deal for you.
Is your broadband too slow or too expensive?
Many people stay stuck with the wrong broadband deal because switching seems complicated. But it doesn’t have to be like this.
This guide explains how to change broadband provider quickly, easily, and often for a better price.
Why change broadband provider?
There are lots of good reasons to think about switching:
- Your broadband is slow or unreliable
- You want to save money
- You're moving home and need a new service
- You'd like faster speeds or better perks (such as adding TV bundles)
If you've been with the same provider for over two years, it's likely you're overpaying. The best broadband deals are often reserved for new customers, so it's best to shop around.
How to change broadband provider in 4 easy steps
1. Check your current contract
Before you switch, check when your current contract ends. You can usually find this by logging into your account or by calling customer services.
- Contract minimum terms are typically 12, 18 or 24 months.
- If you're on a 1-month rolling contract, you can switch to a new broadband provider at any time.
- Leaving early may mean paying cancellation fees, so check the small print.
2. Compare new broadband deals
Use our postcode checker to find deals available at your address. You can filter by speed, price, contract length or ‘most popular’ if you want to take the guesswork out of the best deals available today.
Things to consider:
- Speed: At least 36Mb for most households. Aim for higher average speeds if you have lots of devices or stream often. You can find more useful tips in our ultimate guide to broadband speeds.
- Price: Don't assume slower speeds come with a cheaper monthly cost. If you can get it, full fibre broadband (FTTP) is often better value now. In fact, ultrafast broadband deals are now often available for under £30 per month with no upfront cost.
- Bundles: TV, home phone and broadband bundles can sometimes save money - but be sure you’ll make use of the features for the contract length.
Here’s today’s most popular deals:
Want to explore what else is available? Use our free tool to check broadband deals in your area.
3. Sign up with your new provider
With the One Touch Switch process, your new provider will usually handle most of the work for you. Once you sign up for your new broadband package, both your new and existing provider will send confirmation of the switch and let you know if any early termination charges apply.
- You'll be given an estimate of when your new broadband will go live.
- The actual switch can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, especially if engineering work or new line installation is needed.
- Thanks to the new switching process, downtime is minimal. Most people experience only a short interruption, typically less than one working day.
If your new and old providers are both signed up to the One Touch Switch system, you won't need to cancel your old service separately. It's all handled for you.
4. Sit back and wait for the switch
You’ll be kept informed every step of the way and will receive a notification of transfer. This will include an estimated date your new broadband connection will go live.
You should also be contacted by your old provider. They’ll give you details of any terms for ending your service. You may have to return any TV boxes or routers to avoid being charged a fee.
Ready to change providers?
FAQs about changing broadband provider
-
Does it cost anything to change broadband provider?
If your contract has ended, you won’t be charged to cancel, but you may need to pay a set-up fee for a new provider (search for deals with ‘no upfront cost’ to avoid this).
If you're still in contract, you may face early termination fees - this is a typical contract term.
Some providers allow you to leave a broadband contract early without paying a fee, particularly if they can’t meet their promised speeds or if they increase prices mid-contract.
-
Can I change broadband provider mid-contract?
If you need to, you can cancel your broadband mid-contract, but be prepared to pay an early termination fee. It may be possible to cancel a contract for free if your broadband is very slow, and your provider is signed up to the Ofcom Broadband Speed Code of Practice.
Sky Broadband and NOW Broadband customers are also free to leave penalty-free within 31 days of receiving a broadband price rise notification.
-
Will I lose service during the switch?
Not usually. With One Touch Switch, the transfer is designed to happen seamlessly with little to no loss of service.
-
Can I keep my landline number?
Usually. Just let your new internet provider know you wish to keep your existing phone number.
-
What about my email address?
If your current email address is tied to your broadband provider, you may lose it when you switch. Consider setting up a free Gmail or Outlook account to future-proof your email.
Read more: Can I keep my email address if I change provider?
-
How long does switching take?
In most cases, switching broadband provider takes a few days to a couple of weeks. If engineering work is required, it may take a little longer. Your new provider will be able to provide a clearer timeline once the switch starts.
Top tips to make switching even easier
- Look out for switching credits. Some providers will cover early exit fees.
- Be aware of any set-up costs with your new provider.
- Keep an eye on contract length. Shorter deals offer flexibility, but may cost more.
- Check for rewards or freebies like gift cards or bill credits.
Why change broadband provider with us?
Broadband Genie has been helping UK households find better broadband services for over 21 years. We offer impartial advice to help you make informed choices with confidence.
For more help, give us a call on 0333 0417 273.
Check your postcode to see exclusive offers: