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✅ If you switch between providers on the same network (e.g., BT to Sky, both using Openreach), your switch will be seamless with little to no downtime.

⚠️ If you switch between different networks (e.g., Virgin Media to BT or Hyperoptic to Sky), you will need to manually cancel your old service after the new one is live to avoid losing internet before the switch is complete.

💡 To avoid downtime: 

1️⃣ Check if an engineer visit is required – If you’re moving networks, an engineer may need to set up new wiring. 

2️⃣ Don’t cancel your old service too early – Wait until your new broadband is working before notifying your old provider. 

3️⃣ Ask your new provider about an overlap period – Some let you activate the new service before switching off the old one.

✅ If you’re switching between providers on the same network (e.g., BT to Sky, TalkTalk to Plusnet), your new provider handles everything, so you don’t need to cancel your old service yourself. ⚠️ If you’re switching between different networks (e.g., Virgin Media to BT, or Hyperoptic to TalkTalk), you must manually cancel your old service once the new one is live to avoid being double-billed.

💡 Pro Tip:

• Don’t cancel your old service too early! Wait until your new broadband is up and running to avoid downtime.
• Early termination fees are common if you're under contract, so check your contract terms and see if the new provider offers any compensation or covering of fees.

Here’s a quick breakdown of which providers operate on which broadband networks in the UK:

• 🔵 Openreach Network (Most widely used)

  • Providers: BT, Sky, TalkTalk, Plusnet, EE, Vodafone, Zen, Shell Energy, NOW Broadband, John Lewis Broadband

• 🔴 Virgin Media Network (Completely separate cable network)

  • Providers: Virgin Media only (No other ISPs use this network)

• 🟠 CityFibre Network (Expanding full-fibre alternative)

  • Providers: Vodafone Full Fibre, TalkTalk Future Fibre, Zen, Giganet, Hyperoptic (in some areas)

• 🟣 Hyperoptic Network (Independent full-fibre provider)

  • Providers: Hyperoptic only (Dedicated full-fibre network)

• 🟢 Gigaclear Network (Specialist in rural fibre connections)

  • Providers: Gigaclear only

• 🟡 Community Fibre Network (Focused on London)

  • Providers: Community Fibre only

• ⚪ Other Full-Fibre Networks (Smaller regional fibre providers)

  • Providers: Trooli, YouFibre, Airband, and other regional networks

🔥 Why this matters? If you’re switching within the same network (e.g., Sky to BT on Openreach), your new provider will handle the switch for you. If you’re switching between networks (e.g., Virgin Media to BT or Hyperoptic to Sky), you must manually cancel your old broadband once the new one is live.

🚀 Need to switch? Check what’s available in your area now!

✅ If you’re out of contract, switching is usually free.

❌ If you’re still under contract, you may need to pay an early termination fee, which is often the cost of your remaining months.

⚠️ You can leave penalty-free if your provider increases prices mid-contract (beyond CPI + 3.9%), but you must act within 30 days.

💡 Some broadband providers offer to pay your exit fees when you switch to them—check for deals!

Get a great broadband deal now by clicking here.

When switching broadband providers, access to your email account depends on your current provider's policy. Some allow you to keep your email indefinitely, while others delete it after a set period. Here’s what you need to know before you switch:

Broadband Email Retention Policies by Provider

• BT – ✅ Yes (Paid) / ❌ Maybe Deleted

  • BT allows you to keep your @btinternet.com email after switching, but you’ll need to pay £7.50 per month for BT Premium Mail.
  • If you don’t subscribe to Premium Mail, BT may delete your email 60 days after cancellation.

• Sky – ✅ Yes (Free)

  • Sky lets you keep your @sky.com email for free, even after you switch broadband providers.

• Virgin Media – ❌ No

  • If you have a @virginmedia.com email, it will be deleted 90 days after cancelling your broadband.
  • Important: Back up any important emails before switching.

• TalkTalk – ✅ Yes (Limited)

  • You can keep your @talktalk.net email for free for up to 12 months after switching.
  • However, after that, you must log in regularly, or your email may be permanently deleted.

• Plusnet – ❌ No

  • Plusnet used to provide email services but has shut them down completely in 2024.
  • If you haven’t already moved your Plusnet email elsewhere, it’s no longer accessible.

• EE (BT-owned) – ✅ Yes (Paid)

  • If you have an @fsnet.co.uk or @btconnect.com email from EE, you can keep it only if you pay for a premium mail service—similar to BT.

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🔥 What This Means for You:

✔ If your provider allows you to keep your email (Sky, TalkTalk, BT with payment), you don’t need to worry. 

❌ If your provider deletes your email (Virgin Media, Plusnet), you must back up your emails and switch to a new provider before cancelling. 

💡 If you rely on your broadband provider’s email, consider setting up a free Gmail or Outlook account before switching to future-proof your communication.

🚀 Before switching broadband , make sure you know whether your email will still be accessible!

✅ If you’re switching between providers on the same network (e.g., Sky to BT or TalkTalk to Plusnet on Openreach), you likely don’t need an engineer; just plug in your new router (which your new internet provider will likely send to you in advance of your activation date).

✅ If you’re switching between different networks (e.g., Virgin Media to BT or moving to a full-fibre provider), an engineer visit is required to install new cabling.

⚠️ Engineer appointments can take up to two weeks, so book early if you rely on the internet for work or home use.

📌 Not sure if you need an engineer? Check with your new provider before switching to avoid surprises!

Get a great broadband deal here .

✅ You can switch broadband providers while still in contract, but you may have to pay an early termination fee unless you qualify for a penalty-free exit.

⚠️ Exit fees are usually based on how many months are left in your contract. Each provider calculates these differently, so check with your ISP to find out your exact costs.

🚀 You may be able to leave for free if: 

1️⃣ Your provider raises prices mid-contract (above CPI + 3.9%) - you have 30 days to cancel without penalty.

2️⃣ Your broadband speeds are consistently below the guaranteed minimum, and your provider fails to resolve the issue.

3️⃣ Your new provider offers to pay your exit fees when you switch.

📌 If you’re moving, check if your provider covers your new address - if they don’t, you may be able to cancel without charges.

✅ In most cases, you can keep your landline number when switching broadband providers, but you must request it when signing up with your new provider (important).

⚠️ You may not be able to keep your number if:

• You’re switching between different networks (e.g., Virgin Media to BT or Hyperoptic to Sky).
• You’re moving to a new geographical area (for example from Newcastle 0191 to Derby 01332).
• Your new provider doesn’t offer a landline service.

📌 If your new broadband provider doesn’t offer landlines, you can still keep your number by transferring it to a VoIP service.

💡 To avoid losing your number, NEVER cancel your old broadband and landline before setting up your new service.

✅ To check which broadband providers are available in your area,  use the postcode checker above , we'll show you the broadband provider available, price, contract duration and any additional perks or benefits.

⚠️ Broadband coverage varies widely based on the networks in your area:

• BT, Sky, TalkTalk, and Plusnet (Openreach) – Available to 99% of homes.
• Virgin Media – Covers about 55–60% of the UK.
• Full Fibre Providers (Hyperoptic, Gigaclear, CityFibre, etc.) – Available in select locations, often cities, new-builds, or rural areas.

💡 If you’re struggling with slow broadband, check if full fibre is coming soon, or consider 4G/5G home broadband as an alternative.

📌 Our  postcode checker is the fastest way to find out exactly what’s available at your address!

Switching broadband providers has become more straightforward with recent regulatory changes.  Here's how the process typically work:

1. Research and Choose a New Provider (click here):

   • Use our comparison tool to find a provider that offers the services and speeds you need at a competitive price. 

2. Check Your Current Contract:

   • Determine if you're still under contract with your current provider to avoid early termination fees.

3. Contact the New Provider:

   • Sign up for the new service by simply clicking 'View Deal'.  Under the 'One Touch Switch' process introduced by Ofcom in September 2024, your new provider will handle the entire switching process, including notifying your current provider.

4. Schedule the Switch:

   • Your new provider will inform you of the switch date.  Any service disruption should be minimal, typically not exceeding one working day.  If you have the option you should insist that your old service and new service overlap to ensure minimal downtime. 

5. Return Equipment:

   • Some providers may require you to return their equipment (like routers).  Ensure you follow their return process to avoid charges.

Minimal downtime is expected during a broadband switch.  Providers coordinate to ensure a seamless transition, often completing the switch on the same day.  However, if a new line installation is required or if you're switching between different types of connections (e.g., from standard broadband to full-fibre), there might be a short period without service.  Your new provider should inform you in advance of any expected downtime.

If your new broadband is slower than expected or keeps cutting out, follow these steps to diagnose and resolve the problem:

1️⃣ Check If It’s Still in the Stabilisation Period

• If you’ve just switched, give it 10 days to settle, as broadband connections often go through an optimisation process during this period.

2️⃣ Test Your Speeds Properly

• Use the speed test here or your provider’s speed checker to compare actual speeds vs. what was promised.
• Always test with a wired Ethernet connection first—WiFi speeds can be misleading.

3️⃣ Restart Your Router the Right Way

• Turn it off for 5 minutes, then restart.
• This forces your router to request a fresh connection and can sometimes fix speed issues instantly.

4️⃣ Rule Out Local Issues

• Check your provider’s website for service outages in your area.
• If you have a phone line, listen for crackling or interference—this could indicate a line fault affecting broadband.

5️⃣ Contact Your Provider for a Line Test

• If you’re getting much slower speeds than promised, ask your provider to run a line test to check for faults.
• They may need to send an engineer to fix the issue.

6️⃣ Know Your Consumer Rights

• If your provider fails to deliver the speeds promised, you have rights under Ofcom’s Broadband Speed Code of Practice.
• If they don’t fix the issue within 30 days, you may be able to cancel your contract penalty-free.

7️⃣ Use the 14-Day Cooling-Off Period (If You’re Still Eligible)

• If you signed up online or over the phone, you have a 14-day cooling-off period.
• If your service is consistently poor within this time, you can cancel without penalty.

8️⃣ Escalate Your Complaint If Needed

• If your provider won’t fix the issue, ask for an official complaint reference number.
• If they still don’t resolve it, escalate to Ofcom or an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme.

9️⃣ Consider Switching Providers Again

• If your provider can’t fix the issue, switching to another ISP may be your best option.
• Use our broadband comparison tool to check which providers offer more reliable service in your area.

💡 Final Advice: You don’t have to settle for slow broadband. If your provider isn’t delivering the speeds you were promised and won’t fix the issue, you have the right to demand better service or switch to a more reliable ISP.

SearchSwitchSave.com recently added this blog post regarding devices in your house that could negatively impact your home WiFi such as active baby monitors - check it out - its worth trying.

Switching broadband providers isn’t just about finding the cheapest price; it’s about making sure you get the best value for your needs.  Whether you're after ultrafast speeds, reliable service, or a budget-friendly deal, here’s how to secure the best broadband package while avoiding hidden costs.

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1️⃣ Use the HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk Postcode Checker

The best way to find the top broadband deals in your area is by entering your postcode into the HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk checker .

🔍 Why?

• Broadband availability varies by location; some providers might offer amazing deals in one postcode but not in another.
• Full-fibre networks like Hyperoptic, Community Fibre, and CityFibre are only available in select areas.
• Rural areas might have fewer options, but we track down mobile broadband, 4G/5G, and satellite solutions too.

📌 ✅ Enter your postcode to instantly compare the best deals available at your address!

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2️⃣ Compare Offers (Don't Just Look at the Price)

Many broadband providers compete aggressively for new customers, meaning:

🔥 You can often get big discounts, free gifts, and cashback. 🔍 Look beyond price, consider the speed, contract length, rewards, and customer service reputation. 💡 Avoid ‘too good to be true’ offers, some providers hike prices midway through your contract.

💬 Example: A provider might offer a super-cheap £20/month deal, but if the price doubles after 6 months, it's not actually a great deal in the long run!

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3️⃣ Negotiate with Your Current Provider

💡 Did you know? Many providers will match or beat competitor offers to stop you from switching.

💬 How to haggle: 

✔ Call your provider and say, "I'm looking at a better deal elsewhere. Can you offer me something to stay?" 

✔ Be prepared to walk away; if they know you’re serious, they’re more likely to offer discounts or extras. 

✔ If they won’t budge, use HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk to compare the best switch deals instantly.

📌 💰  Insider Tip: Some providers will offer exclusive retention deals only when you actually start the cancellation process!

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4️⃣ Consider Broadband + TV + Phone Bundles

💡 Bundling services can save money, but only if you actually use everything in the package.

✔ When Bundles Make Sense:

• If you already pay for a TV subscription (e.g., Sky, Virgin, BT), getting it with broadband can be cheaper.
• Some providers offer free Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon vouchers with broadband deals.

❌ When Bundles Are a Waste of Money:

• If you don’t watch live TV or use a landline, don’t pay extra for them!
• Some bundles look cheaper upfront, but over a year, they can cost more than separate services.

📌 ✅ Always check if bundling actually saves you money before committing!

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5️⃣ Avoid Hidden Costs & Check Contract Terms

💡 Some providers lure you in with low prices but add extra fees that make the deal more expensive in the long run.

🚨 Look out for these sneaky charges:

• 📈 Mid-Contract Price Hikes – Some providers increase prices yearly (check for fixed-price deals).
• 💰 Router Delivery or Activation Fees – Some charge £10–£50 just to send a router!
• 🚪 Early Exit Fees – If you leave early, some providers charge hefty penalties.

📌 ✅ Always read the contract terms before signing up.

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6️⃣ Look for Limited-Time Promotions & Cashback Offers

Some of the best broadband deals include: 💰 Cashback Offers (Get £50-£200 back just for signing up!) 🎁 Gift Cards (Amazon, Tesco, or M&S vouchers worth £50-£100!) 📦 Free Tech (Some providers offer free WiFi boosters, tablets, or smart speakers!)

📌 ✅ Use the HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk postcode checker to find exclusive promotions!

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7️⃣ Switching is Easier Than You Think! (Let Your New Provider Handle It)

💡 Thanks to One Touch Switch, switching broadband is now hassle-free.

✔ You don’t need to tell your old provider you’re leaving; your new provider does it for you! 

✔ You won’t lose service during the switch (there’s usually no downtime). 

✔ If you’re out of contract, you can switch anytime with no fees.

📌 ✅ Switching broadband takes minutes—why pay more than you have to?

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📌So... How to Get the Best Deal

🔍 Always compare using your postcode on HotBroadbandDeals.co.uk. 

💰 Negotiate with your current provider—they may offer you a better deal to stay. 

📦 Consider bundles; but only if you actually use the extras. 

🚨 Avoid hidden fees, check for mid-contract price hikes, activation fees, and contract length. 

🔥 Act fast on limited-time offers;  some deals  expire quickly!

📌 ✅ Enter your postcode now & find the hottest broadband deals today!