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Ofcom to make ISP switches "quick and easy"
Ofcom has announced new rules to make it easier for broadband customers to switch between internet service providers (ISPs).

Until now, it was not compulsory for providers to supply customers with a migration authorisation code (MAC) – the alphanumeric reference needed by users wishing to transfer between companies.

Following an increase in complaints and a public consultation, the regulator has ruled that providers will have to give customers a MAC on request and free of charge.

Ofcom also said that more than half of complaints it received between September 2005 and the same month this year related to tag on line – the problem where customers cannot change provider when moving into a new home.

It hopes the new measures will go some way to addressing the issue.

"Increased competition in broadband has led to falling prices and a wide variety of services," said Claudio Pollack, Ofcom's director of consumer policy.

"These new rules are intended to ensure that switching is a quick and easy process for all."

In other ISP news, Pipex and PlusNet have entered the top five UK broadband providers in terms of technical performance for the second quarter of 2006.

BT remained the best performer in the rankings, compiled by Epitiro.


track© Adfero Ltd
13 December 2006  17:21:46
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