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By:	Bruce Bahlmann

A code used within the United Kingdom (UK) to authenticate the migration request from your current Internet Service Provider (ISP) to your new ISP and makes migration between providers much simpler and quicker. Use of the code allows the transfer of service between ISPs ideally without a service interruption.

A Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) allows ISP's to transfer ADSL users with a minimum of disruption of service. You ask your current ISP for a MAC code when changing to a new one. You then give this code to your new ISP. A MAC code is normally valid for 30 days.

For example: BBIP87654321/AB12C, LASS1045905/FL08U, BBDS12345678/9AB12

"A MAC (Migration Authorisation Code) is used in order that a broadband customer can switch from one Internet Service Provider to another without going through a cease and re-provide of the service. The customer’s current ISP issues the MAC, which they then give to their new ISP during the broadband ordering process. The new ISP then uses the MAC to take over provision of the broadband service on a given day (typically 5 working days after the order has been confirmed as placed with the new ISP). The only downtime that should occur when using the MAC process is the time it takes the customer to reconfigure their broadband hardware to use the new settings, username and password given to them by their new ISP after their connection with their old ISP stops working." [keyconnect]

"A MAC number is a Migration Authorisation Code which your old BB supplier (AOL) must give to your new supplier. Without that code you will not be able to make a smooth transition between suppliers. You would have to cancel one, wait for a while and then start again with a new one. Have a look at Code of Practice here. You will see that AOL have signed up to it and it states a MAC must be handed over within 5 days of the request. However if you have a 12 mont contract with AOL you can't just walk away from it." [webuser]

"A MAC (Migration Authorisation Code) is a long alphanumeric code that enables you to transfer between two broadband providers without any downtime. To transfer to us, you need to get a MAC code from your current provider, and likewise, to transfer to another provider from us you will need to request a MAC code from us. MAC codes are always free of charge." []

"a 17 to 19 digit unique identifier code used by broadband customers when they wish to switch broadband service provider. 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." [wiki]

Great help Sites:
MAC Codes FAQ - TalkTalk - carphone warehouse
What is a MAC code? - ccsleeds.co.uk
Broadband Migrations Process - Office of Communications (Ofcom)
Switching to Tiscali Broadband Questions (MAC Migration) - Tiscali SpA

Commercial Definitions:
Migration Authorisation Code (MAC) - Wiki (brief)

How to request MAC code - MacCode.org.uk

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