Virgin Media begins Hub 5 upgrade rollout

Virgin Media O2 has begun rolling out free upgrades to its WiFi Hub 5 router for broadband customers across the UK.

The initiative targets those using older Hub 3 or Hub 4 devices, first released in 2016 and 2019 respectively.

The WiFi Hub 5 brings faster wireless performance, support for WiFi 6, and the latest WPA3 security encryption, offering a more reliable and future-ready connection.

Free router upgrade

Virgin Media O2 is upgrading all existing broadband customers with Hub 3 or Hub 4 routers to its latest Hub 5 model, regardless of their current broadband package or speed.

The nationwide rollout is already underway, with thousands of customers set to benefit before the end of the year and further upgrades continuing into 2026.

The move is part of the company's ongoing effort to enhance home broadband performance, delivering stronger signals, faster speeds, and improved network security.

Eligible customers will be contacted directly by Virgin Media O2 when their upgrade is ready. There's no need to apply or pay any additional fees - the Hub 5 will be shipped free of charge, complete with easy setup instructions.

Virgin Media O2 says the process has been designed to be quick and hassle-free, allowing customers to replace their existing router with minimal disruption. Once installed, users can expect smoother streaming, faster downloads, and better WiFi coverage throughout the home, especially on devices that support WiFi 6.

Customers are advised to keep an eye out for emails or notifications confirming their eligibility as the rollout expands across the UK.

WiFi Hub 5

Virgin Media's WiFi Hub 5 is designed to deliver faster, more reliable connections throughout the home.

The router supports WiFi 6 technology, and while this has now been succeeded by WiFi 7 - it still offers significant improvements over previous models, including higher speeds, lower latency, and better performance when multiple devices are connected. This means smoother streaming, lag-free gaming, and more consistent connectivity for households juggling work, entertainment, and smart devices.

Equipped with seven antennas and the latest WPA3 security encryption, the Hub 5 provides stronger signal stability and enhanced protection against online threats.

It also includes a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, enabling customers with compatible devices to take full advantage of Virgin Media's fastest broadband packages, such as Gig1 and Gig2 in select areas.

Future-proofing

While the Hub 5 is Virgin Media O2's latest router, it originally launched in October 2021 - meaning it isn't brand-new hardware.

Until now, only customers on the company's Gig1 broadband package or specific bundles, such as broadband and Mega TV plans, have received the device.

This rollout marks the first time all broadband-only customers, regardless of speed tier, will be provided with a WiFi 6-enabled router.

Even so, Virgin Media O2 lags slightly behind some rivals. Sky, for instance, has offered all full-fibre customers a WiFi 6 router since July 2023, while both Vodafone and Sky now provide WiFi 7-enabled devices on their fastest or premium plans.

Although Virgin Media O2 has not announced plans for a WiFi 7 router, industry observers expect the company to release its own next-generation device in the future, keeping pace with competitors like EE, Sky, and Vodafone.

Gareth Lister, Director of Connectivity at Virgin Media O2 said, "Providing our customers with the very best broadband experience sits at the heart of 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.".