There are changes afoot to the UK broadband system which consumers need to know about.

BT Openreach will be switching off the UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) or copper analogue network by the end of January 2027.

Here is everything you need to know: 

Information Regarding One Touch Switch and the Copper Turn Off

In a ground-breaking move to simplify how to switch broadband provider, a new initiative called the 'One Touch Switch' has been announced brought to you by Ofcom. This means a seamless and quick transition for users seeking better packages, cheaper deals, or enhanced customer service. This initiative will transform the way we switch broadband provider, avoiding those wasted hours on the phone with both current and prospective service providers to work it out.

With Ofcom’s ‘One Touch Switch' you can seamlessly transition to smooth fibre optic internet. This modernised service will be introduced in September 2024, tailored to make changing broadband a whole lot easier for you. This will apply to all home broadband users, including cable and full-fibre customers. This means you can effortlessly change broadband provider, and switch between networks or technologies. Upgrade copper cable technology to lightning fast full fibre optic technology with Hey!Broadband with twice the speed and ease.

How to change broadband provider with 'One Touch Switch'

With ‘One Touch Switch’ you will only have to speak to your new broadband provider. Goodbye middleman! There is no need to hash things out with your current provider over the phone, just make your move. This streamlined approach not only simplifies the switching process but also means you switch broadband with the speed you’re switching for!

The 'One Touch Switch' is a new era for broadband users, offering hassle-free and swift transition to switch internet provider today. Whether you're looking for a speedier package, a more budget-friendly deal, or a superior customer service; your new internet provider can cater to your personal needs efficiently and effectively.

You can already switch between Openreach networks such as BT, Sky, and TalkTalk using a one-step switching process, in contact only with your new provider. But we wanted to introduce the one touch switch system to a wide variety of networks. This will make it easy to change internet provider whether you’re moving from a provider using the Openreach network to one using CityFibre’s, or from Virgin Media to Hyperoptic. Move freely for the best broadband for you, and only have to speak to the provider you’re switching to.

It’s important to note that you’ll be compensated if you’re left without a service for more than one working day. Plus, when you switch broadband, you won’t have to pay any notice-period charges beyond the switch date.

These changes will make it much quicker to switch broadband. The process can take as little as a few days, where you receive all the important information from your previous provider. This may include info on any early termination penalty fines. And you’ll also receive all the important info from your new provider too.

On the date agreed upon between you and your internet provider, your new service will start, seamlessly replacing your previous broadband so that you can wait less and stream more. Simply request to switch broadband for an efficient, hassle-free move to your new provider.

Your customer phone number can be transferred between services without any hassle, if requested, and you won’t have to pay notice period charges beyond the switch date. Although early contract termination charges may apply with some providers. This new initiative hopes to reduce the stress and hassle of switching broadband provider.

Bundles, Charges, and the 'Cooling Off' Period

Users with bundled services, like home phone and broadband, typically follow the same process as above. However, if your bundle includes a TV service, especially when linked to satellite TV, there may be variations. Consult your new provider for detailed information on your situation.

There’s a 14 day 'cooling off' period when switching, allowing users to cancel their request to switch broadband provider without incurring any charges. This period provides a safety net, ensuring users have the freedom to reconsider their decision without financial repercussions.

Copper Switch off

BT Openreach will be switching off the UK’s Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) or copper analogue network by the end of January 2027.

PSTN has been the foundation of the UK’s telephone network for decades, with some infrastructure in place since the 19th century. As our demand for faster internet access grows, the time has come for the copper network to be upgraded to Fibre to the Premises (FTTP). There is no need to worry about these changes, in fact it will mean your organisation will benefit from faster broadband speeds and higher quality communication.

The existing analogue copper network in the UK has become increasingly expensive to maintain. Reliability and download speeds are often an issue for users depending on how far they are located from the closest telephone exchange. The switch to a full fibre network will offer quicker connectivity, increased reliability, and flexibility. This will allow users to take full advantage of cloud computing, video conferencing and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls.

It is important that you start to check if the phones and services you use will need to be replaced with fibre-based alternatives.

Openreach plan to cease the use of the PSTN and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) service by the 31st of January 2027. By this time, it is hoped most business or home users would have been transferred to the upgraded fibre network. The UK digital upgrade may have already started in your area as it is being approached on a region-by-region basis. This means the sales of analogue phones and lines may have been already phased-out in certain areas.

For those living in rural areas the switch to a full fibre network might not happen as quickly as other areas. For some, 4G, 5G and other alternative services might be a more viable choice. Your chosen telecoms supplier will be able to advise you further on what connectivity is available in your area.

 

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