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Switch from BT to Virgin Media
Switching from BT to Virgin Media means moving to a completely different network. Here's what you need to know.
Switching Networks
Unlike switching between Openreach providers (BT, Sky, Plusnet, etc.), moving from BT to Virgin Media involves a complete network change. Virgin operates their own cable infrastructure.
This means Virgin will need to send an engineer to install a cable connection to your property. If you've never had Virgin before, they'll need to run cable from the street to your home.
The upside is access to faster speeds - Virgin's Gig1 and Gig2 packages offer speeds that exceed most Openreach options.
How to Switch
- ✓Check Virgin Availability: Use their postcode checker first.
- ✓Compare Packages: Virgin offers M125 to Gig2 speeds.
- ✓Sign Up with Virgin: Choose your package and book installation.
- ✓Wait for BT Contract: Consider timing to avoid early exit fees.
- ✓Engineer Installation: Virgin will install the cable connection.
- ✓BT Cancellation: Virgin can notify BT, or cancel separately.
Things to Consider
- ✓Different Networks: BT uses Openreach; Virgin uses their own cable.
- ✓Engineer Visit: Virgin installations require an engineer.
- ✓Faster Speeds: Virgin Gig1/Gig2 faster than most BT packages.
- ✓No Phone Line: You won't need a phone line with Virgin.
- ✓Contract Overlap: You might pay for both briefly during switch.
- ✓TV Bundles: Virgin offers TV, BT Sport requires separate arrangement.