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Switching to Virgin Media
Everything you need to know about joining Virgin Media and getting connected to the UK's fastest widely-available broadband.
Virgin Media Uses a Different Network
Unlike most UK providers that use the Openreach network, Virgin Media operates their own cable network. This means switching to Virgin is a bit different from switching between other providers.
The main difference is that Virgin usually needs to send an engineer to install a cable connection to your property, even if you had Virgin before (if the previous tenant took the equipment).
The upside is Virgin can offer faster speeds than most Openreach providers, with packages up to 2.2 Gbps.
Steps to Switch
- ✓Check Availability: Use Virgin's postcode checker to confirm coverage.
- ✓Compare Packages: Choose from M125 to Gig2 based on your needs.
- ✓Sign Up Online: Often the best deals are online-only.
- ✓Installation Booked: Virgin will arrange an engineer visit.
- ✓Engineer Visit: Installation takes 1-2 hours typically.
- ✓Old Provider: They'll cancel automatically after your Virgin install.
Things to Know
- ✓Different Network: Virgin uses cable, not Openreach like most providers.
- ✓Engineer Required: Most installations need an engineer visit.
- ✓Cable Point: They'll install a small box on your wall for the cable.
- ✓No Phone Line: You don't need an existing phone line.
- ✓18-Month Minimum: Most Virgin contracts are 18 months.
- ✓Volt Benefits: O2 mobile customers get free speed boosts.