Pay As You Go Broadband

Are you disatisfied with your broadband provider? Not sure how to switch or who to switch to? These are common problems for broadband users and yet it is not difficult to switch to a better service provider. Which? found that AOL broadband customers were the most disatisfied with their provider in a recent poll and yet 80% of AOL customers still put up with an unsatisfactory service. Whether you’ve had poor service, an unreliable connection, or believe you are  paying too much for your internet, switching broadband provider can save you money and get you a better service.

One of the reasons you typically put up with a poor service may be because you are concerned about having to change your email address when it is tied into your internet service provider (ISP). It actually makes more sense for you to use a web-based email such as Google’s Gmail or Microsoft’s Hotmail rather than your ISP. If you are tied into a contract you need to be sure that you have served the minimum contract term  or you will be liable for costs.

Two ISPs Zen Internet and O2 both offer competitive one month contracts and this avoids the locking in problem of long contracts plus both these networks were rated highly by Which? customers in a January 2011 survey for customer satifaction. O2 will give you a free wireless router and a 20GB data allowance. Whereas Utility Warehouse allows you to leave at any time in your contract without reprisal – you are only charged £10 admin fee which is a very reasonable amount.

When you leave a current provider you need to make sure you get your MAC code from them (Migration Authorisation Code). Your MAC code is valid for 30 days.  Make sure that you DO NOT CANCEL your current broadband provider when you have your MAC code as this could result in your phone being disconnected from access to broadband until you have selected your new provider and they have taken the steps to set up your new account. If you are on ADSL (broadband on a BT homeline) give your MAC code to your new broadband supplier who should confirm cancellation of your old broadband and a transfer date to your new supplier.  It should take up to 7 days to complete the switch.

Once you have switched check that you are nor being billed by your pld provider – it can happen! NOTE:  MAC codes can’t be used to switch between cable and copper wire ADSL providers, or some full local loop unbundled (LLU) providers – all participating ISPs must issue your MAC code within five days of your request. The type of broadband you currently have could limit your choices. If you  currently have a cable connection,  you will need a “BT” landline installed if you want to switch to an ADSL connection. For example, Virgin Media have a 30 days cancellation policy- always read the fine print on your contract.

Before you switch providers make sure you have checked out any hidden costs in your chosen package. If you are considering a cheap, or free, broadband  deal – consider the quality of service you will be getting.  Check your new contract for download limits as this could mean that you end up paying more than your current monthly rate for downloading.