A more consistent method of allowing consumers to switch their internet service provider (ISP) via a migration authorisation code (MAC) should be established in the UK, it has been claimed.

According to recent research, close to a third of all internet users around the country who want to change their suppliers are being deterred from doing so by the process they view as unreliable.

In light of this figure, the firm behind the study, BroadbandChoices, is convinced that action needs to be taken to make sure that switching procedures are more "robust" and do not leave consumers either out of pocket or stuck with an unfavourable internet supply deal.

"There needs to be a radical shake up of the switching procedures," asserts product development director Michael Phillips.

"ISPs should no longer be able to get away with bullying customers in such a way that could potentially deter them from making a switch."

When Ofgem announced the launch of the MAC system in late 2006, it suggested that a "significant minority" of people had experienced problems when they attempted to switch their ISP.

Thinking of switching? View our switch broadband page to get your MAC code and compare packages that beat your currently one.