How to switch broadband providers

Why switch your broadband provider?

Broadband providers often keep their best deals for new customers.

There are lots of broadband providers in Ireland, all competing to offer the most attractive deal with discounts, superfast speeds or free add-ons like Amazon Prime Video or sports passes.

Many households are now switching to more widely available and increasingly affordable full-fibre deals.

By switching to a different provider, you could enjoy:

• Cheaper monthly costs
• Faster internet speeds
• Larger download limits
• Better customer service
• Free add-ons or equipment

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What’s the best way to find a new broadband provider?

With Switcher.ie’s broadband eircode checker, you can find all the broadband deals available in Ireland.

Our broadband checker makes it easy to find the best broadband plans where you live and allows you to compare features like:

• Monthly costs
• Discounts and special offers
• Broadband speeds
• Contract length
• Exclusive deals and rewards

Six tips for a successful switch

Switching your broadband provider is quick and easy, but read these extra tips to ensure your switch goes without a hitch.

• Discover what’s available in your area: Our broadband eircode checker searches all the deals in your location, and you can filter the results to narrow your choices.
• Know what you need: Do you want broadband only or a broadband bundle? Think about how much speed you really need, the services you want and what you can afford each month.
• Check you’re free to switch: Contact your current provider and give the required notice so you don’t get charged early termination fees.
• Read the small print: Do this before you sign up for any new broadband plan, verify the monthly cost once the discount period ends, and check for any upfront costs or extra charges.
• Cancel your current contract: You’re responsible for cancelling your broadband account with your current provider when you switch to a new provider.
• Agree an installation date: Once you have a cut-off date with your old provider, confirm the start date with your new one, so you experience as little downtime as possible.

Some providers might notify customers when their contract is due to end, but they’re not legally obligated to. You can check your contract terms for the expiry date.

When do broadband prices rise?

Most introductory broadband contracts are between 12-24 months so if you’re on a discounted plan, your price will usually increase once the discounts ends.

Ahead of the discount end date, shop around for cheaper plans and then switch when you’re free to do so.

Many customers might also see an automatic price increase each April, based on rates from the consumer price index.

Do you have to pay anything when you switch broadband?

No, usually equipment is loaned or provided free of charge, but any equipment must be sent back within 30 days of your broadband cancellation date.

They’ll be in touch to tell you how to return any items. Include all peripherals like cables, power adapters and wifi extenders in your return so you don’t get billed for them.

Depending on the type of broadband connection you are arranging there could be additional installation costs, so check the plan information before you sign up.

Are there any hidden costs to switching?

No, but check the plan information carefully before you sign up. You’ll pay the monthly charge you see listed on Switcher.ie and any other upfront costs outlined in the plan information.

The monthly price shown is often a discounted price for a limited time, so check how long the introductory price lasts and how much it increases once it ends.

Make sure you’re out of contract before switching because if you are still within the minimum term, you’ll have to pay an early termination charge.

How much notice should you give?

Most broadband providers require you to give them 30 days notice to cancel your contract when you switch regardless of whether you’re within the minimum contract term or not.

Once your discounted plan has ended you can switch without penalty.

However, if you are still within the minimum term, your existing provider will charge an early exit fee for cancelling your contract. One exception is if you have a contract-free broadband product.

When should you cancel your Direct Debit?

After you decide to switch, you will need to give your broadband provider the notice stated in your contract (which is usually 30 days) to ensure you switch without any penalties.

Arrange a date with your provider to close your account. Once the account is closed and you have settled any outstanding payment, you can then cancel the Direct Debit.

Will you lose service during the switch?

A temporary loss of broadband service can sometimes occur during the switching process. This shouldn’t last too long, but if you need internet access during the day, try to arrange your switchover outside of any critical periods.

Switching broadband FAQs