Switching your broadband or mobile service provider

There are many reasons why you might want to switch your broadband or mobile provider. You might be unhappy with the quality or reliability of your connection, annoyed with their policies, or you might just think that you can get a better deal elsewhere. Before you call them up to give them their marching orders, it is important to check the terms of your contract to find out whether you are allowed to break it after a certain point, and just when that point is.

If you do not have a pay as you go agreement with your provider, then you will most likely have to pay to get out of your contract, unless the minimum term is up.

Before you ring your provider to tell them that you are cancelling your contract, you should check out your other options as thoroughly as possible. Try to find out as much as you can about what each provider is offering.

One of your main concerns when choosing a new mobile service provider is the strength of signal that they can provide in your area. This is particularly important if you are looking to get mobile broadband or 3G services, as these need a strong signal if they are to be at all usable. Although the approximate signal strength in your area can be found out using the providers online location search, these are based on estimates rather than measurements, so you may want to ask your neighbours what services they use, and how good a reception they are getting.

Once you have made up your mind what service provider you are going for, it is time to let your existing provider know. You will need to ask for either a MAC number, if it is your broadband connection you are changing, or a PAC code if you are changing mobile network.

If you want to keep your old phone number when you move to a new network, then you will need the PAC number, but if you are happy to take on a new number then there is no need. You cannot, however, switch broadband providers at all without a MAC code, so make sure that you get it.

Thankfully, broadband providers have to, by law, furnish you with this number within five days of the request. If they use delaying tactics, you should threaten to complain to Ofcom about it, as this usually speeds things up.

Finally, once you have your PAC or MAC code safely scribbled down, you need to give it to your new provider, and they will do the rest. Mobile networks are legally obliged to switch you over within two days of the PAC number being given to the new provider, so if they drag their heels, you know what to do!

About the Author:
Vodafone offer a huge range of phones and price plans. If you like smart phones, you will love the Samsung Jet with its fast internet for express browsing and downloads.