How Do I Get a Broadband Installation?
Whenever you sign up for a new broadband deal, you will usually need to get a broadband installation. Engineers must set up wires and run tests. Nearly all connections require an engineer except mobile broadband and MiFi options.
Do I Need an Engineer To Install Broadband?
In most cases, yes. An engineer will need to visit your property to set up the connection and test it. The only exception is mobile broadband, which simply requires a SIM card inserted into your device.
What Are the Steps for a Broadband Installation?
- Sign up to a broadband deal with a provider and receive a confirmation email
- Wait for your router to arrive in the post
- Receive a call, text, or email to schedule your installation appointment
- Locate the internet/ethernet socket in your property
- The engineer arrives to set up and test speeds
- Wait for go-live confirmation from the engineer
What Different Types of Broadband Installations Are There?
What Is In Store with Each Broadband Installation?
- ADSL Broadband: Uses an existing home phone line to provide an internet connection. Nearly all homes have phone lines, making ADSL installation straightforward.
- Fibre Broadband: Available as Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC) with a copper wire connection to the home, or Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) like SIRO with a direct fibre cable to your property.
- Mobile Broadband: The easiest to install since you do not need to have any wires. Simply insert a SIM card into the device and you are connected.
- Satellite Broadband: Requires a satellite dish installation on your property, ideal for rural areas without fibre coverage.
Find the Best Broadband Deal in Your Area!
Our broadband experts at Selectra can help you secure a fast, affordable plan in your area — completely free.
How Much Does a Broadband Installation Cost?
Broadband installations in Ireland are typically done free of charge. However, installation may incur once-off fees for new lines or satellite broadband setups.
| Provider | Installation Fee |
|---|---|
| Imagine Broadband | €150 |
| Pure Telecom | Free |
| Prepay Power | Free |
| Regional Broadband | Free |
| Digiweb | Free |
| Eir | Waived in packages |
| Sky | €30 |
| Three | Free |
| Virgin Media | €60 |
| Vodafone | Free |
How Quick Can I Get a Broadband Installation?
Broadband installations are usually reasonably quick compared to other utilities. The timeline depends on your individual property circumstances and connection complexity.
How Long Do I Have To Wait for a Broadband Installation?
Customers receive a 14-day cooling-off period. Broadband typically installs before the cooling period ends. You will go live with your broadband deal the day after your cooling-off period is over.
Do I Go Live the Same Day As the Broadband Installation?
Not always. While the physical installation may be completed on one day, you may need to wait for the connection to be activated on the provider's end. Your engineer will confirm the go-live date during the installation visit.
Find the Best Broadband Deal in Your Area!
Our broadband experts at Selectra can help you secure a fast, affordable plan in your area — completely free.
Do Different Providers Install Broadband Differently?
What Is the Virgin Media Broadband Installation Process?
Virgin Media operates its own network infrastructure with a €60 activation fee. Their engineers will install the connection using Virgin Media's own cable network, which is separate from the Eir/Open Eir infrastructure.
What Is the Eir Broadband Installation Like?
Eir offers straightforward installation using standard infrastructure. Technician appointments are available in the following time slots:
- Mornings: 9am - 1:30pm
- Afternoons: 12:30pm - 4:30pm
- All-day: 9am - 4:30pm
Eir waives activation fees on bundle packages and offers self-installation router guides.
What About the Sky Broadband Installation?
Sky uses the same infrastructure as Eir. They charge a €30 activation fee for standalone broadband. If you are getting a Sky TV package, the installation may also include a satellite dish setup.