Are You Overpaying for Broadband? How to Switch in Ireland

Out-of-contract broadband customers pay 20–40% more than new customers. Here's how to fix that.

Broadband providers in Ireland follow the same playbook as energy companies: attract new customers with introductory deals, then quietly move them to standard pricing when the contract ends. If you've been with the same broadband provider for over 12 months and haven't renegotiated, you're almost certainly paying more than you need to.

Check your current situation

Start by finding your contract end date — it's on your original sign-up confirmation or in your online account. If you're past it, you're out of contract and free to switch without any exit fee. If you're still in contract, note the end date and diarise a reminder.

What good value looks like in Ireland (2026)

• →Standard broadband (up to 100Mb): €25–€35/mo as a new customer
• →Fibre broadband (300Mb–1Gb): €30–€50/mo as a new customer
• →Bundle (broadband + TV): €50–€70/mo as a new customer

If you're paying more than these figures, you're likely on a post-contract standard rate.

Option 1: Negotiate with your current provider

Call the retentions team (not regular customer service) and mention that you've seen a better deal from a competitor. Ask them to match it. This works roughly 60% of the time and takes 15 minutes. If they won't budge, switch.

Option 2: Switch provider

• →1. Check availability: not all providers cover all areas. Eir and Virgin Media have the widest reach; check their websites with your eircode
• →2. Compare deals on Bonkers.ie
• →3. Sign up with your new provider — they contact your existing provider to arrange the switchover
• →4. The switch is usually seamless with minimal downtime
• →5. Cancel your old contract in writing once the switch is confirmed