Do i need a MAC code?

socmwils23

I am currently an o2 broadband and home phone customer looking to move to BT infinity. I have just rang o2 and been told i dont need a MAC code as this would be a more expensive way of switching. Instead i should just order with BT and notify o2 of when infinity will start and give them 7 days notice to cancel their service.


Is this correct? In the past when moving broadband (and home phone) i just obtained a MAC code and gave it to the new supllier and everything was sorted. So whats the best method of switching to infinity?

Ady87

Although BT will be providing a fibre service, you still need a MAC code as the service is Fibre To The Cabinet and copper still carries the last leg of the journey. You will need one to place an order with BT.

By not having one, O2 will charge you a broadband cessation charge, it's more expensive and troublesome doing it that way. You have been totally misadvised. Get your MAC and give BT a call.

daleski75

Definitely get a MAC code

socmwils23

thanks for the help. Phoned o2 back again and got a different story. They are now sending me my mac code. They are saying if i use this code within 7 days of it being produced ill be charged £15. All very strange. Oh well thanks for the help.

Ady87

Wow. Really?

So, the MAC has a 30 day expiry period. If you use it after 7 days and before the 30, there is no charge? But you get charged £15 if you move within 7 days? That's insane!

socmwils23

im tempted to use it within the 7 days and then complain to ofcom that what should be a free MAC code attracts a charge and try to get the money back. Im also equally temoted to just get out and be thankful.

Ady87

Yeah i agree. Working in the industry and giving/receiving MAC codes every day, thats the first time i've ever heard that happening. Very harsh from o2!

Gordon_Hose

You shouldn't need a MAC code as you're not migrating a service. You're cancelling one service with O2 then setting up a completely new service with BT.

Ady87

He is migrating his service though? o2 have advised him he doesn't need to transfer he just needs to manually cancel. But I'm assuming he wants to keep his telephone number and, he guaranteed needs a MAC...

Gordon_Hose

No he's not. He can't migrate his broadband from O2 to Inifinity. Cancel Broadband, give the cut off date to BT Infinity who will then set him up to receive Infinity on the day his O2 Broadband is due to cease. No MAC needed.

To port his telephone number he needs a PAC. It is completely separate to Broadband.

socmwils23

Having now ordered bt infinity BT wanted my mac code. I have to say i find all this very confusing but it kind of explains why o2 staff dont know whether a mac is needed or not. As it stands i dont think im any worse off as i have given bt my mac code as they requested and i can always phone o2 7 days before my install date to manually cancel.