Are you thinking of changing your internet subscription? Read this guide to get key information and useful tips to keep in mind during the provider switch.
Switching internet providers is a relatively simple process and, in many cases, it is the best solution to save on subscription costs and get a more powerful WLAN connection without having to pay for a technology upgrade.
In summary, the advantages of switching internet subscriptions are:
Monthly savings: By changing your subscription, you can access discounts and promotions reserved for new customers, obtaining a cheaper rate.
No service interruptions: During the switching process, you won’t be left without a functioning Wi-Fi network since the new subscription will replace the old one on the same day the previous provider stops its service.
Better technology: With a subscription change, you can upgrade to a better technology at no extra cost by selecting a tariff with free activation.
Check out the Home internet plans available on the market today and find a new plan that saves you money!
Steps to Switch Internet Providers
To change your internet subscription, follow these steps to get a new plan that saves you money while offering high-speed browsing:
Compare the available plans on the market using an impartial and comprehensive tariff comparison tool like the one on internet-offer.ch. If you find a suitable subscription, proceed to step 2; otherwise, run the comparison again next month.
Check your current contract obligations with your provider: If you have passed the minimum contract period, you can proceed with cancellation to start the notice period. Otherwise, weigh the benefits carefully, considering any early termination costs.
Request activation of the new subscription on the same date your previous contract ends to avoid double billing.
Wait for the new provider to contact you to finalize the switch, complete the installation of the new internet router, and only then return the old router.
Complete the switch by setting up the TV box and connecting your devices to the new home WLAN network.
Switching from Copper Cable to a Cable or Fiber Optic Connection
In many cases, switching internet subscriptions is motivated by the need for faster browsing, taking advantage of broadband on better technologies than VDSL. The most widespread internet technologies in Switzerland are cable connections (CATV) and, increasingly, fiber optics. By comparing the conditions of the new provider with those of an older copper-based subscription, you can usually find a lower monthly price, more flexible contract terms, and significantly better network performance. In this case, it makes perfect sense to switch your internet subscription and sign a contract with a new provider.
Can I Continue Using the Internet During the Switch?
During the transition phase between your old provider and the new one, you can continue to use the internet without any service disruption. Just as customers are required to respect the notice period when canceling a contract, Swiss internet providers are obliged to guarantee an active and reliable connection until the last day as stipulated in the contract. If this is not the case, you can contact a consumer rights organization to take legal action against the provider and claim compensation.
Do I Have to Change My TV Subscription When I Switch Internet Providers?
When switching your internet subscription, you don’t necessarily have to change your TV subscription. This depends on the type of subscription you currently have. Some bundled internet and TV subscriptions only work if the provider is the same for both services, while in other cases, the TV subscription can be used with a different internet provider. In the former case, you will need to change your TV provider as well, whereas in the latter case, you can continue using your TV box by connecting it to the new router.
Note: Changing your TV box may result in losing any recordings stored locally. If possible, you can transfer recordings to external hardware, but remember that distribution is prohibited as TV broadcasts are protected by copyright.
What Should I Do with My Old Router?
When switching to a new internet provider, you will need to replace your internet box. Usually, once you’ve signed a new contract, you will receive a package containing the new hardware devices a few days before the activation of the new subscription. Installation is simple: just follow the instructions provided, and the new router will be set up in minutes. Once the new router is installed, you must return the old one by shipping it to the address indicated when canceling the subscription or dropping it off at a local store.
What Happens to My Landline Number?
If you still have an active landline number, you have two options: either cancel the landline telephone subscription with your old provider and don’t request a new one during the switch, or provide your new provider with your landline number and request number portability. If not specified during the contract signing, you could lose your number, and you would have to inform your contacts of the new one.
Will I Lose Access to My Email Account When I Switch Providers?
Some traditional providers, such as Swisscom and Sunrise, offer email services to their internet customers. Whether or not you can continue to use your email address depends on the provider: for example, Swisscom customers can continue using their Bluewin email address after leaving Swisscom, but it will be downgraded to the basic light subscription, with only one active email address and limited storage space.
How Do I Proceed with the Switch?
Now that you’ve read this guide, you have the basics for switching your internet subscription. If you want to save time and avoid visiting multiple websites, use an online comparison tool like the one on internet-offer to quickly get information on all the internet subscriptions currently offered by different providers and find the one that suits you in just two clicks.
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