Easier broadband switching for Virgin Media customers and others delayed – here's what you need to know

Here's how 'one touch switching' will work when it's finally implemented

• Once the changes take force, you'll only need to contact your new provider, no matter who your current provider is. Once you've done this, you'll then receive all the important information you need automatically from your current provider, such as your final bill. Your new provider will then manage the switch.

• The process may take longer if you're switching from a non-copper to a copper network or vice versa. If you want to switch from a cable, non-copper network (such as Virgin Media) to a copper network (such as Openreach, which is used by BT and Sky), then your property will need to have a physical connection to that network, just like you do now.
  
  If you already have a connection, for example if you used to be with Virgin Media, switched to Openreach and then switched back again, moving can take as little as one day. However, if you don't have a connection and a visit from an engineer is required, it could take longer.

• You will probably need a new router. As is usually the case now, if you're switching provider you'll probably need a new router, unless you bought your own and/or your current router can be used with your new provider. Just ask your new provider what the best option is.