People who want to change their providers should know what MAC code is and how the Independent Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Services like CISAS and Otelo can help them when they have unresolved issues with their broadband suppliers.

It is also important that they have a look at the terms and conditions of the current service before switching, as this can help for smooth switching.

It is quite understandable that customers may take the decision of quitting the current service and moving to a new broadband supplier, when they are unhappy with the existing service or may be, they have found a better internet package that comes with faster speeds or larger download allowance or better customer service or even for saving some money.

Moving to new broadband service can be a problem when your contract still has a few months more to expire. Most internet providers have a cancellation policy that includes cancellation fee as a part of their service agreement. Sometimes, your ISP may ask you to pay the cost of broadband for the remaining period of your contract. It is a good idea to browse your provider’s website or contact the customer service to get all the information you need, before you request for your MAC code.

What is MAC code and how to get it?

Migration Authorisation Code or MAC applies only when you switch between ADSL broadband providers but is not needed for switching cable or mobile broadband services. It is a unique set of alphanumeric characters that needs to be passed from your existing provider to the new service provider. It contains important information about your phone line and the exchange you are connected to.

Within a week or ten days from the date you asked, you should get MAC and there should not be any further delay, under the rules of regulator Ofcom.

Until, you get the new service, DO NOT CANCEL THE EXISTING SERVICE, since your new internet service provider may take up to a couple of weeks to connect you to their serivce.

To get MAC, make phone call to your broadband supplier and simply request for your MAC saying you have decided to change providers.

To call BT, just dial this number 0800 800 150. Below we have given a short list of UK broadband internet providers and their telephone numbers:

Be – 0844 499 5555
Demon – 08452 722 333
Eclipse – 07392 333 301
Entanet – 08714 333 682
O2 – 08002 300 202
Orange – 08448738586
PlusNet – 08451 400 200
Post Office- 08457 223 344
Sky – 08705 515 515
TalkTalk – 08000 490 049
Virgin.net – 08450 451 303

How to use MAC code and sign up for the new service?

Once you have received MAC, you should use it within a month, after that it expires and you will have to ask for new MAC code.

Compare broadband providers and their packages and choose the right deal that can best suit your needs as well as your budget.

We would suggest you that you sign up ONLINE to take advantage of the exclusive discounts and special offers. Some ISPs also offer free broadband to the switchers who sign up online. Moreover, the sign up process is simple while you take online offers, and just enter the MAC code during the process.

Use the current service till you are moved to new supplier and the expected downtime should be bare minimum.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) schemes

CISAS and Otelo are independent dispute resolution services approved by the regulator, Ofcom. If you experience delay in getting MAC or the formal complaint procedure with your ISP has failed, you should write to ADRs or Ofcom