How to Switch Broadband Provider in the UK
A complete guide to switching your home broadband. Whether you are moving between Openreach providers or switching to a different network entirely, here is how it works and what to watch out for.
Understanding the Different Switch Types
How your broadband switch works depends on the networks involved. There are three scenarios:
1. Openreach to Openreach (Simplest)
Most UK broadband providers (BT, Sky, Plusnet, TalkTalk, EE, NOW) use the Openreach network. Switching between any of these providers is handled automatically through One Touch Switch — your new provider contacts your old one, and the switch happens on a set date with little to no downtime. No engineer visit is usually needed.
2. Different Network Types (Cease-and-Reprovide)
If you are switching between different network types — for example, from Virgin Media (cable) to Sky (Openreach), or from BT (Openreach) to Hyperoptic (FTTP) — the process involves ending your old service and installing the new one. This is called a cease-and-reprovide switch. An engineer visit is usually required, and there may be a gap between your old service ending and the new one going live.
3. Full Fibre (FTTP) Switches
Providers like Community Fibre, Hyperoptic, and some BT/Sky packages run on their own FTTP networks. Switching between these always requires installation of new equipment. Installation typically takes 1–2 hours and involves running a fibre line into your property and setting up a new router.
Step-by-Step Switching Process
- Check your contract. Log into your current provider's account to check your contract end date and any early termination fees.
- Check availability. Not all providers cover all areas. Full fibre providers like Community Fibre are London-focused, while Hyperoptic covers select buildings nationwide.
- Sign up with your new provider. They will handle contacting your old provider via One Touch Switch (or guide you through a cease-and-reprovide if needed).
- Arrange installation if needed. For network changes, schedule an engineer visit. Keep your old service running until the new one is live.
- Return old equipment. Most providers require you to return routers and set-top boxes. Failure to return can result in charges (e.g. BT charges ~£50, Virgin Media charges vary).
UK Broadband Speed and Price Comparison
Here is how the major UK broadband providers compare at common speed tiers:
| Provider | Network | ~150 Mbps | ~500 Mbps | ~900+ Mbps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT | Openreach | £36.99/mo | £46.99/mo | £51.99/mo |
| Sky | Openreach | £29/mo (18mo) | £32/mo (18mo) | £49/mo (24mo) |
| Virgin Media | Cable (own) | — | — | ~£40/mo (1130 Mbps) |
| Community Fibre | FTTP (own) | £17.99/mo | £23/mo | £25/mo (1 Gbps) |
| Hyperoptic | FTTP (own) | £20/mo | £23/mo | £25/mo (1 Gbps) |
| Plusnet | Openreach | — | — | — |
Pricing from provider websites, March 2026. Some providers do not offer all speed tiers. Virgin Media packages vary by area.
What You Might Lose When You Switch
- BT email — deactivated 60 days after cancellation unless you pay £7.50/mo for BT Premium Email.
- Virgin Media email — deleted 90 days after cancellation.
- Bundled TV/phone discounts — leaving a bundled package may increase the price of remaining services.
- Equipment — routers and set-top boxes must be returned. BT charges ~£50 for non-returned hubs.
Provider-by-Provider Leaving Guides
Head-to-Head Provider Comparisons
Deciding between two specific providers? These comparisons include detailed speed, pricing, and installation data:
Let Lodo Handle the Switch
Lodo finds the best broadband deal for your address, handles the switch, and resolves any problems with the providers directly. Free, no catch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How does One Touch Switch work for broadband?
- Since April 2023, Ofcom requires broadband providers to support One Touch Switch. You only need to contact your new provider — they handle notifying your old provider and managing the switch. You do not need to contact your old provider to cancel.
- Will I have downtime when switching broadband?
- If both your old and new provider use the Openreach network, the switch is usually seamless with minimal downtime. If you are switching between different network types (e.g. Virgin Media cable to Openreach fibre), there may be a gap while the old service ends and the new one is installed.
- Do I need an engineer visit to switch broadband?
- It depends on the type of switch. Openreach-to-Openreach switches often do not need an engineer. Switching to a provider on a different network (e.g. Community Fibre, Hyperoptic, Virgin Media) usually requires an engineer visit to install new equipment and cabling.
- What happens to my landline number when I switch broadband?
- If you are switching between Openreach-based providers, your landline number is usually transferred automatically. If you are moving to a non-Openreach provider, number porting may take up to 12 working days, and you may receive a temporary number in the meantime.
- Can I switch broadband if I am still in contract?
- Yes, but you may face early termination fees. These vary by provider — for example, Virgin Media charges based on remaining months × monthly cost, while BT applies a similar formula with a small discount. Some providers like Sky offer switching credits to cover exit fees from your old provider.