Migration Authorisation Code

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In the United Kingdom a Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) is a 17 to 19 digit unique identifier code used by broadband customers when they wish to switch internet service provider (ISP). MACs usually begin with "BBIP", "FTIP", "BBDS", or "BBDP", and consist of 4 letters, 7 numbers (sometimes up to 9), a forward slash, 2 letters, 2 numbers, and 1 final letter. (For example: BBIP87654321/AB12C).[1]

After a request for a MAC it should be provided by the ISP within 5 working days. MACs are valid for 30 days once issued, providing the customer with the opportunity of switching ISPs within that period. It usually takes around 6 to 10 working days for accounts to be switched over from one ISP to another.[2]

The code was first introduced by Ofcom and BT as a voluntary code of practice. However, as of 14 February 2007, the rule became compulsory (General Condition No. 22: Service Migrations). This meant that if a broadband customer requested a MAC from their ISP then the provider must supply one free of charge.[3] The rules were implemented in order to ease the process of switching ISPs. Switching customers will usually only lose their Internet connection for up to a few hours during the migration.

[edit] Reasons For Refusal

The grounds on which an ISP can refuse to issue a MAC are as follows:[4]

The ISP is unable to confirm the identity of the account holder by performing standard checks,
The Broadband Service contract has already been terminated,
A valid MAC has already been requested and issued by the ISP,
The ISP has already submitted a Cease Request for the Broadband Service,
The ISP is unable to have a MAC request generated by the Broadband Network Communications Provider. In the UK this is generally BT as they own the majority of the telecoms infrastructure over which broadband is provided. Contrary to popular belief^[who?], the ISP themselves do not generate the MAC but instead place a request to BT to have a MAC generated.

[edit] Local loop unbundling

Many providers in the UK will not accept a local loop unbundling (LLU) MAC, identifiable by its first 2 characters being LL. If a company will not accept an LLU MAC then the connection (or "asset") must be cancelled 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.