As of today, broadband users will find it easier to switch to a new ISP.
From 14 February, users nearing the end of their broadband contract will be able to demand a migration access code (MAC) from their ISP. They can give the MAC to their new ISP, which should enable a seamless handover of service. The provision of MACs will become mandatory and must be made free of charge, according to new rules being imposed by Ofcom, the telecoms regulator.
Ofcom originally laid down its plans for mandatory MACs in December. Some ISPs provided users with a MAC before this, but only on a voluntary basis.
Customers who couldn’t extract a MAC from their ISP often found they lost their broadband service for up to a fortnight while changing suppliers.
"The changes to the MAC process are not going to solve all the problems, but it does give more power to the consumer," said Andrew Ferguson, an industry analyst with thinkbroadband.com. Ferguson said that new regulatory conditions would mean ISPs are expected to co-operate better than in the past, even where the customer’s old supplier is in financial difficulties.
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