How to switch broadband providers in Ireland
Switching your broadband plan is quick and easy and could save you a bundle. Here’s exactly how to switch to a better broadband deal in just a few simple steps.
Why switch your broadband provider?
Broadband providers often keep their best deals for new customers, and many households are now switching to more widely available and increasingly affordable full-fibre deals.
By switching, you could unlock:
Compare broadband deals near you with our eircode checker and see how much you could save.
Switch broadband in six easy steps
Switching broadband in Ireland is straightforward; and you can follow these six simple steps to make sure your switch goes smoothly.
Step 1. Check your current contract
Before you switch, make sure you’re free to do so. Some providers notify you before your contract ends, but it’s worth checking yourself:
Step 2: Compare broadband deals in your area
Next, use Switcher.ie’s broadband eircode checker, to see all the best broadband deals available in where you live. You can compare:
- Monthly costs
- Discounts and special offers
- Broadband speeds
- Contract length
- Exclusive offers and rewards
Enjoy superfast fibre broadband
Use our eircode checker to find your best deal and switch today
Step 3: Choose the right broadband plan
Ireland’s broadband providers offer various types of broadband packages to suit your needs. Broadband only is usually the cheapest while a TV bundle may cost the most.
Although broadband only or broadband and TV are the most popular options, in some cases you can still add a landline call plan to your broadband package.
Eir, Digiweb and Pure Telecom offer broadband and home phone deals. You can also add a call plan as an optional extra with the other main providers.
Broadband only
An internet-only deal. In some cases you may still need a landline, but won’t be charged for a call plan. Providers offering broadband only include Digiweb, Pure Telecom, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone.
Broadband and TV
Add digital TV to your broadband and enjoy access to exclusive content and features like the ability to pause, rewind & record live TV. eir, Sky, Virgin Media and Vodafone all offer broadband and TV deals.
| Type | What it offers | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|
| Broadband only | Cheapest option | Most homes & streamers |
| Broadband & TV | TV bundles with live, on-demand & sports | Families or entertainment fans |
| Broadband & phone | Landline call plan included (less common now) | Households still using a landline |
Step 4: Sign up with your new provider
If you’ve found a better deal on Switcher.ie, once you’ve submitted your details for your new broadband product:
- Your new provider will get in touch to confirm your installation or activation date
- You’ll need to provide some additional details to your new provider to set up your account, and
- Agree an installation date, one that avoids any interruption in service
Step 5: Cancel your old broadband
After your new service is arranged, it’s time to cancel your old broadband. You’ll need to:
- Let your current provider know you’re switching
- Give them at least 30 days’ notice to close your account.
- Make sure all final bills are settled
- Cancel any Direct Debits once your account has been closed
If you’re still in contract, be aware that early termination fees may apply. It’s always worth double-checking your contract dates before cancelling.
What happens next?
After you’ve signed up for your new broadband plan, most of the work is done and your new provider will handle the switch for you.
Depending on the type of broadband connection you’re switching to, an engineer may need to visit your home to set up your new line or equipment.
- Equipment delivery: If any new equipment is needed, it’ll usually arrive before your service starts.
- First bill and discounts: Your first bill will show any setup fees or discounts applied to your plan.
What if you change your mind?
If you have a change of heart or you find a better deal elsewhere, most broadband providers offer a 14-day cooling-off period, which means you can cancel the contract without penalty.
Is it worth haggling with your provider?
Yes - it’s worth letting your current provider know you’re considering a change before you make the switch. They may try to retain you by offering a better deal or extra perks.
You can also use a comparison website to see cheaper deals and ask if they’ll price match. Sometimes this leads to a new, lower offer, but it’s not guaranteed.
Whatever their response, weigh it carefully. Often, you could still save more by switching to a new broadband provider.
Cancelling your broadband
Remember, once you’re free to switch to a new provider, you are responsible for cancelling your broadband account with your current provider.
You’ll need to give your provider the relevant notice and arrange a date to close your account to avoid any penalties for early termination.
To ensure the cancellation process goes smoothly have to hand your:
- UAN number
- Address and telephone number as they appear on your bill
If you’re cancelling due to a problem with your broadband service, check your consumer rights first.
Other things to keep in mind
After switching, there are a few practical things to be aware of to make sure your broadband experience runs smoothly. From price changes to equipment returns and avoiding hidden costs, here’s what to keep in mind.
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.
To avoid a price-rise shock, ensure you:
- Shop around ahead of the discount end date for cheaper plans
- 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.
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.
What if you’re moving house?
If you’re moving house, many broadband providers will let you transfer your existing plan to your new address, provided the service is available there.
If the same plan isn’t available at your new premises, you may need to cancel your contract early, which could incur an early termination fee.
Before moving, check broadband availability at your new home and speak to your provider about options.
You can also read our moving home checklist for simple tips on transferring broadband and energy plans.
Recap: Six tips for a successful switch
Switching your broadband provider is quick and easy, but we’d rounded-up some of our switching tips to ensure it goes without a hitch.
Remember to:
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.
Switching broadband FAQs
What is the UAN?
UAN is short for Universal Account Number. It’s an eight digit unique identification number for the line that carries broadband and phone signals to your home.
The UAN is usually required to switch broadband providers and to keep your existing phone number when switching. It can be found on most broadband and phone bills or on your online account.
Can you keep your phone number?
Yes, but you must inform both your old and new provider during the switching process.
Can you switch mid-contract?
It’s possible, but you may face early termination charges if you haven’t completed your minimum term.
Fees can range from a fixed cost of €150 or more per product, to a calculation based on the monthly cost for the remaining months of your contract; whichever is lower.
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.
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.
Enjoy superfast fibre broadband
Use our eircode checker to find your best deal and switch today
