Can I swap broadband services with no downtime?

Question

Hey,
Does anyone know if it is possible to order broadband on BT while i still have Sky broadband, so that there is no downtime. I need it for work, and am also doing Open University. The reason am wanting away from Sky, is that there customer services are shocking. Router keeps disconnecting, "switch it on and off that should fix it". Been hung up on 4 times, and if they cant be bothered speaking to me they just put me to a different department. Anyway is it possible to do that?
thanks

Answer 1

To have two separate wired broadband services, you will need two separate telephone lines.



I had the reverse experience to you... shocking performance from BT (never got above 0.7 upload speed and constantly dropping) and moved to fantastic Sky service, but we did move our phone line over to Sky as well, so BT are completely out of the picture... and I wonder if this is the problem you have. Two companies disagreeing with each other.



I really would steer clear of BT if you can. Their call centre (not UK based) is the absolute pits!



For your backup, I'd look at one of the mobile services. Alternatively, if you have cable broadband in your area consider moving to that.



EDIT just re-read your question. When we moved from BT to Sky the changeover took about 2 hours. We didn't notice... it just happened.

Answer 2

The answer is "It Depends". I dont know what BT or Sky broadband are. IF the new provider and the old provider are delivering service via the same technology (DSL over the phone line, Cable modem, Satelite) then there will be downtime while the service is switched.



If you are switching from one type of service to another (Cable to dsl or visa versa) then you can do it without downtime. Order the new service. wait for it to arrive and know that it is working, then cancell the old subscription.



Another option is to get a cellular connection for a month so that you can use that while you make the switch, or ask a neighbor if you can connect to their wireless while you switch.

Answer 3

Theres 2 basic scenarios. One is that Sky are using a service called LLU in this case you place an order to transfer both the line and broadband together, takes 11 working days to do this. The other is that you need to get a MAC code from sky, give that to BT or whichever company you are going to and BB transfers in 5 working days.



Both of these you keep service till the changeover.

Answer 4

Nope

There needs to be a change made to switch you over and so it's disruptive

They can give you an estimate for how long the service will be down for but that's about all

I've moved house and changed providers a few times so bought a Pay-As-You-Go Broadband dongle to deal with the outage windows

Some routers support them and can use them as a backup to the ADSL line

Answer 5

I even have TalkTalk. easily no issues in any respect. It costs me pennies over £20. For which you get limitless calls 24/7. unfastened Broadband . Line apartment (they take over from BT) and unfastened worldwide calls. i've got faith you apart from would get constrained unfastened calls to mobiles in the process the night. I`ve been with them for a 300 and sixty 5 days now, and via that factor, i think of I dropped connection as quickly as. that still comprise i might upload Caller reveal & Voicemail. Oh specific as RogerH says above 40gb acquire utilization.

Answer 6

I have swapped ISPs several times.

Every time there has been a couple of days without any service.



I have a friendly neighbour who has allowed me to connect to their wireless.



If you don't have a wireless source nearby then as a last resort there is old dial-up. Several free ones are available if you Google.



Incidentally, I currently use Plus Net which has been pretty reliable and is very cheap.

Answer 7

It may be possible, contact you new provider, you can bet your old one will tell you nothing.