A method, a system and an evolved nodeB (eNodeB) that enable user equipment (UE) to switch between carrier groups in a multi-carrier network. A carrier selection and switching (CSS) utility identifies a first and a second set of pre-configured groups of carrier frequencies that are subsequently assigned to a particular UE. The CSS utility notifies the UE of the assigned, pre-configured groups of carrier frequencies and provides the UE with system parameters associated with the first and second pre-configured groups of carrier frequencies. The CSS utility signals the UE to initiate communication via the first preconfigured group of carriers. Based on the occurrence of pre-established conditions, the CSS utility utilizes a switch signal to indicate via physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) to the UE (a) when to begin utilizing the second group of preconfigured carrier frequencies and (b) when to make subsequent switches between carrier groups.