In most cases, switching broadband involves choosing a new provider and placing an order. Your new provider then manages the switch and cancels your old service automatically.
You usually won’t lose your internet connection, and you don’t need to contact your current provider yourself. The exact process depends on whether you’re switching standard fibre, full fibre, or upgrading your connection.
Most people don’t switch broadband because something suddenly stops working. They switch because their deal quietly becomes worse value over time.
Introductory offers end, monthly prices increase, and faster or cheaper options become available in the same area. Without reviewing their deal, many households end up paying more than they need to for a service that no longer suits how they use the internet.
Common reasons people decide to switch include:
For many households, switching broadband can reduce monthly costs, improve reliability, or both.
You can switch broadband at any time, but whether it’s cost-effective depends on your contract.
If you’re out of contract, switching is usually straightforward and doesn’t involve exit fees. This is often the best time to compare options.
If you’re still in contract, you can usually still switch, but you may need to pay an early exit fee. This is typically based on how many months remain on your agreement, so it’s worth checking before committing to a new deal.
Before switching, it’s sensible to confirm:
For most UK households, switching broadband is a managed process rather than a manual one.
Once you choose a new provider and place an order, they coordinate the switch behind the scenes. This includes arranging any network changes, setting a switch date, and cancelling your old service where applicable.
Before choosing a new deal, it’s worth knowing what broadband speed you need so you don’t end up paying for more than you’ll actually use.
What typically happens during a switch:
In many cases, your broadband simply transfers from one provider to another on the same line, meaning you stay connected throughout the process.
In most cases, no.
Many broadband switches happen with no loss of service at all, or only a very brief interruption while the connection transfers. Most people don’t notice any downtime.
A short loss of service is more likely if:
Even then, providers aim to keep disruption to a minimum, and any downtime is usually limited to a short window rather than days without internet.
Your contract status affects the cost of switching, not the process itself.
If you’re out of contract, you’re free to switch without penalties. If you’re still in contract, early exit fees may apply, but these aren’t always as high as people expect.
In some cases, switching early can still make sense if:
It’s worth comparing both scenarios before ruling switching out.
Switching to full fibre is slightly different from switching between standard fibre providers.
If you’re unsure what upgrading involves, our guide to fibre vs full fibre explains how FTTC and FTTP differ and when the upgrade makes sense.
Because full fibre uses a different type of connection, an engineer visit may be required to install new cabling into your home. This is usually arranged by your new provider and included in the setup.
When switching to full fibre, you may notice:
Once installed, future switches between full fibre providers are often simpler.
Switching broadband doesn’t affect most of the things people worry about.
Your devices, internal wiring, and Wi-Fi setup stay the same unless you choose to change them. In most cases, you can also keep using your existing email accounts if they aren’t tied to your old provider.
What usually stays the same:
The main change is who provides the connection and how much you pay for it.
In the UK, many broadband switches are covered by the One Touch Switch process.
This means your new provider handles the entire switch for you, including notifying your old provider and arranging the transfer. You don’t need to contact your existing provider yourself in most cases.
One Touch Switch is designed to:
Not all switches fall under this process, but it applies to most standard fibre and full fibre moves.
Usually not. In most cases, your new provider cancels your old service automatically as part of the switch.
Switching typically takes between one and two weeks, depending on the provider and whether an engineer visit is required.
Yes. In some cases it’s better to switch rather than transfer your existing service, especially if better options are available at your new address.
For most people, no. Switching is a routine process, and serious issues are uncommon. Checking contract terms and availability beforehand reduces risk further.
