How to install Virgin Media broadband

Last reviewed: 23 September 2026

Most new Virgin Media customers can now self-install using a QuickStart kit, without needing an engineer visit. This guide covers the current installation process, what to check beforehand, and when you might need an engineer instead.

Before your installation

Check whether QuickStart is available to you. 

This depends on your address and whether the property is set up for self-installation. Virgin Media will confirm whether QuickStart is available when you order.

Check your wall socket. 

For QuickStart, your socket needs to be securely fixed to the wall, within 3 metres of where your Hub and TV box will sit, with its silver connector visible and undamaged. If your setup does not meet these requirements, you may need an engineer instead. 

Decide on self-install or an engineer appointment 

Decide this at checkout, since this affects cost and timing.

Check how long a broadband switch takes if you are switching from another provider.

Self-installation with QuickStart

QuickStart is Virgin Media's self-install option. The kit contains the equipment, cables and guides you need to set up your service yourself. According to Virgin Media's own installation guidance:

1. Choose QuickStart at checkout. Your kit can be delivered to your home or a chosen Click & Collect point at no extra cost.
2. Wait for delivery. Virgin Media says the fastest average delivery time is around 4 days, although this can take up to 14 days if it needs to close another customer's account at the property first. 
3. Set up your Hub. Once your QuickStart kit arrives, follow the instructions provided with the equipment or use Virgin Media's online guides and Connect app.
4. Connect the cables. Most QuickStart kits contain around six cables, connectors and powerlines, with labels showing what plugs in where.
5. Follow the guided setup. Follow the guided setup. Virgin Media says the Hub installation takes around 30 minutes, with phone and TV taking around 5 and 10 minutes respectively. You will not be hands-on the whole time. The Hub self-configures for about 10 minutes and the Stream box for about 5, so a full 50-minute broadband, TV and phone install typically only needs 10 to 20 minutes of your actual involvement.
6. Activate your service if required. Virgin Media says your account will be activated when you receive your QuickStart kit. If you have a problem with activation or your kit is missing equipment, use the relevant number provided by Virgin Media. 

If you get stuck, Virgin Media's QuickStart guidance provides a dedicated self-installation helpline. An adviser can talk you through the setup and, where necessary, help arrange further assistance. 

Positioning your equipment

Keep your Hub upright and out in the open, with around 1 metre of space from fish tanks and electronics that can interfere with the signal, such as baby monitors, cordless phones and wireless speakers. Keeping the Hub's lights facing into the room can also help the WiFi signal reach your devices. 

When you need an engineer instead

An engineer visit is provided at no extra cost if QuickStart is not available to you. If QuickStart is available but you choose to book an engineer anyway, Virgin Media currently charges £30 for the installation appointment. 

Engineer installation times depend on availability. Virgin Media says you will be offered the next available appointment at checkout. If the property has had Virgin Media before, this could be as soon as the next working day or within 7 days; otherwise, it could take up to 14 days. 

You can also change your installation appointment through My Virgin Media.

Costs to expect

Virgin Media currently lists a £35 activation fee for its services. Beyond that:

• QuickStart self-install: no additional installation cost.
• Engineer visit, where QuickStart is not available: no additional installation cost.
• Engineer visit, where QuickStart is available but you choose an engineer: £30.

Check your order before confirming, as Virgin Media sometimes runs promotions that waive setup fees. 

Additional equipment

Virgin Media's WiFi Pods are designed to improve coverage around your home and are supplied as part of its WiFi Max service where eligible. Customers who need additional Pods may be able to receive up to three, depending on the results of Virgin Media's checks. Pods are self-installed using QuickStart. 

What if something goes wrong during installation?

If there is a delay to your installation, a missed appointment or another issue covered by Virgin Media's terms, you may be entitled to automatic compensation or another form of credit. The exact circumstances and amount depend on what has gone wrong, so check Virgin Media's current compensation terms if your installation is delayed. If you decide Virgin Media is not the right fit after installation, see our guide to cancel Virgin Media broadband.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an engineer to install Virgin Media broadband? 

Not necessarily. Most customers who are eligible for QuickStart can install their broadband themselves. An engineer is provided at no extra cost if QuickStart is not available, or you can choose to book one for £30 if QuickStart is available. 

How long does Virgin Media installation take? 

Virgin Media says the Hub installation takes around 30 minutes. If your package also includes TV and phone, the full setup can take around 50 minutes in total, though your actual hands-on time is closer to 10 to 20 minutes, since some of it is spent waiting for the equipment to configure itself.

How long will delivery of my QuickStart kit take? 

The fastest average delivery time is around 4 days, although this can take up to 14 days if Virgin Media needs to close another account at the property first. 

Is there an activation fee? 

Virgin Media currently lists a £35 activation fee for its services, although promotional offers may waive setup fees. 

What if I am not happy with my WiFi coverage after installation? 

Virgin Media's WiFi Guarantee with WiFi Max is available with eligible packages. It promises download speeds of at least 30Mbps in every room or a £100 bill credit, subject to the relevant terms and eligibility requirements.