Migration Authorisation Code

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In the UK a Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) is a unique identifier used by broadband consumers when they wish to switch broadband service provider. The code was introduced by Ofcom and BT as a voluntary code of practice and is now standard practice for most service providers.

Currently (Jan 2006) the only reasons why a losing service provider (LSP) may refuse to issue a MAC are that:

The customer has failed standard checks to validate that he is the account holder
The broadband service contract has been terminated
The LSP has already submitted a cease request to BTW for the broadband service
The account holder is deceased

Unlike the Porting Authorisation Code issued by voice service providers, broadband service providers can offer a MAC yet not actually sign up to the code of practice. Even when signed up to the code of practice, providers can currently charge for providing a MAC (fees of £35-£50 are not uncommon).

[edit] Definition of Terms

SP - Service Provider
GSP - Gaining Service Provider
LSP - Losing Service Provider
BTW - BT Wholesale
MAC - Migration Authorisation Code
Customer - The user of the broadband connection
Account holder - The person or entity with contractual responsibility for the broadband service
Migration - Transfer of a broadband customer between SPs, where both SPs provide service over the same BT copper loop

[edit] LLU

The recent boom of LLU has created a stream of LLU mac codes from customers on LLU wanting to move to another provider. Many providers in the UK will not accept an LLU mac code (identifiable by its first 2 characters being LL) as of Autumn 2006. If a company will not accept an LLU mac code then the asset must be ceased with the old provider and re-provided under the new provider. Some providers charge for provide orders but not for migrate-in orders and the current llu system is costing customers up to £50 per provider change. The process of migrating across with a mac takes 3-10 days as opposed to 17 days to cease an asset and 7-10 days to provide a new order.