BROADBAND customers are eligible to claim a free router upgrade in a major giveaway.
It should mean Brits who bag the new routers end up with access to faster speeds.
The giveaway is part of a major broadband overhaul by Virgin Media O2.
If you’re a Virgin Media customer in the UK, you’ll be offered a free upgrade at no extra cost.
Virgin Media is handing out its newer and more powerful Wi-Fi Hub 5.
It means if you’re using an older router like 2016’s Hub 3 or 2019’s Hub 4, you can get a big upgrade.
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It’s available to all existing Virgin Media broadband customers.
And it doesn’t matter which broadband package or speed you’re currently paying for.
Virgin Media says that the rollout of the new, more advanced hub has already begun.
And it says that “thousands” of customers will get the upgrade before the end of the year.
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The rollout will then continue into 2026 when remaining customers will get the more advanced hub.
“Providing our customers with the very best broadband experience sits at the heart of Virgin Media O2,” said Gareth Lister, the director of connectivity at Virgin Media O2.
“As our technology and products evolve, we’re committed to making it easier than ever for our customers to enjoy them.
“Not only will this upgrade benefit thousands of customers’ connectivity by enhancing their coverage, it will also future-proof their broadband services for new innovations to come.”
Once you’re eligible to receive the upgrade, Virgin Media O2 will contact you directly.
You don’t need to apply for it or pay any fees – and you’ll receive the Hub 5 with free shipping too.
VIRGIN MEDIA HUB 5 VS HUB 3
Here’s how the new hub compares to the older model, according to Virgin Media…
Virgin Media Hub 3
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 ac)
Speed Capability: Up to 512 Mbps
Antennas: 5
Ethernet Ports: 4x 1Gbps
Wi-Fi Bands: Dual-Band (2.4GHz & 5GHz)
Smart Features: Intelligent Wi-Fi and My Virgin Media app access
Eco-Friendly Design: No
Virgin Media Hub 5
Wi-Fi Standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) (faster, more efficient, better for multiple devices)
Speed Capability: Gigabit+ speed support
Antennas: 7
Ethernet Ports: 1x 2.5Gbps + 3x 1Gbps
Wi-Fi Bands: Dual-band with higher throughput on both bands
Smart Features: Same features but more responsive and efficient with Wi-Fi 6
Eco-Friendly Design: Made from 100% recycled plastics
It’ll also come with simple setup instructions so you can get going quickly, ideally without needing help from an engineer.
Virgin Media says that once you’re on the new Hub, you should see significant broadband improvements.
“The upgrade aims to boost customers’ broadband performance around the home, making it smoother and more reliable,” Virgin Media said.
“The upgrade will be available to select customers currently on Hub 3 and Hub 4 and will see them offered a Hub 5 so they can enjoy a faster, more advanced broadband experience.
“With WiFi 6 and seven antennas for enhanced coverage, the Hub 5 is perfect for seamless streaming, gaming, and browsing without interruption or lag.”
The internet giant added that it should help to “future proof” your home broadband.