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Things to Consider Before Switching Home Internet Providers?

Internet use has grown exponentially over the past two decades. Chances are, you're part of the 110 million U.S. households with an internet connection right now. The web completely transformed how people communicate, work, and pay their bills.

From looking up urgent driving directions to working from home, having a reliable internet connection has never been more vital in today's society. Homeowners even rely on internet-based smart home technology to manage utilities and beef up their security. Parents depend on home internet providersto power their kids' wifi-connected tablets and games.

As your internet needs grow, you need an ISP that can keep up with growing demands. You don't have time to deal with constant video buffering, disconnections, downtime, and slow-loading webpages. It's critical to explore all your internet options to find the best deal for your money.

Finding the right home internet provider starts with asking the right questions. Here are several questions to ask when searching for a new provider.

What Home Internet Providers Are Available In My Area?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a home internet provider. The first point to consider is availability. Your internet options are strictly limited to providers that service your area.

There are a couple ways to start your search. You can type in your zipcode and see all the available ISPs in your area, or you can visit a particular ISP's page and search by zipcode there.

You'll notice that some areas have more ISP options than others. Denser, metropolitan areas, like San Francisco, have more available cable and DSL ISPs than rural communities.

A house, apartment, or property must reside within a certain distance from a provider's service equipment. Since many rural homes are too far away from a cable and DSL service equipment, they use high-speed satellite internet instead. If your only choice is satellite internet, your limited to two choices: HughesNet and ViaSat.

Homes with access to Cable and DSL internet have more options available. Use your zip code to discover if these top internet providers are available in your service area:

• WOW! Cable

• Rise Broadband

• Windstream Internet

• Frontier

• Xfinity

• AT&T

• CenturyLink

• Spectrum

Even if cable and DSL providers do service your area, you can always opt for high-speed satellite internet if you prefer. Satellite internet is available in all 50 states.

What Is the Pricing Structure Like?

Once you've narrowed down the ISP choices in your area, your next question is price. Some ISPs provide a wider variety of monthly plans, services, and payment options. You'll notice that some providers are more expensive than others too.

Home internet providers typically price their monthly plan in tiers. The higher the tier, the better the quality. Take, for example, CenturyLink: plans start at $49 a month for 20 to 40 Mbps and increase to $55 a month for speeds up to 140 Mbps.

Think about your needs when researching ISP prices. For example, if you only use the internet for web browsing and YouTube videos, you could get away with the lowest-tier plan with a smaller data cap. If you're a gamer or work from home, you may need an unlimited data plan.

Do you want internet and TV? Consider a monthly bundle plan. This is a popular option for families. These plans are more expensive but often come with higher internet speeds and generous channel packages.

TV and internet bundle providers price their monthly plans by speed and additional services. For example, WoW! Cable packages start at around $89.00 for 100 Mbps and over 130 channels and increase to $114 month for 500 Mbps internet speeds.

Many ISPs require contracts for service, with some as long as two years. This means you're committed to stay with your ISP until your contract is up. If you don't want to stay tied to one provider, many ISPs, like Frontier, have no-contract plans.

How Fast Is the Internet Connection?

If you want high-speed internet, learn how internet speeds work since most monthly plans are priced by speed. Consider everything from your needs to the number of people in your household. The more connected devices you have, the more bandwidth you'll need.

Here are a few rules of thumb to remember:

If you're using just one or two connected devices for web browsing, email, social media, and occasional video streaming, you'll need at least 20 to 25 Mbps per month.

Moderate to heavy video streaming and gaming would need at least 50 Mbps, but 100 Mbps is more reliable. Heavy internet use, including 4K+ video streaming, gaming, and large volume downloading.

If you have multiple people in your household, you'll need enough speed to accommodate several devices and varying degrees of internet activity.

Are There Any Data Limits and Caps?

Data limits can also impact your internet speed. Data caps aren't uncommon, and several ISPs price their monthly plans by speed and data limits. Top ISPs with data limit plans include HughesNet, CenturyLink, Viasat, AT&T, and Xfinity.

Your zip code may be limited to only data limit plans, as well. Like choosing internet speeds, you need to assess your needs when selecting the right data caps. For example, Viasat's Unlimited plans start at $70 for 60 GB of data, $100 per month for 100 GB of data, and up from there.

If you go over your data limit, your internet speed may slow down or be limited. Overage charges may also apply. Choose a data limit that gives you enough wiggle room each month.

You also need to consider whether or not you need a landline phone. This service may be included with a plan or cost an additional fee. Phone lines are often included in large internet and TV bundles.

Is the Home Internet Connection Secure?

Internet security has never been more critical. Thankfully, top home internet providers password-protect home networks. This information is typically printed on the back of your internet modem equipment.

After installing your modem and router, your connected devices should automatically recognize your internet network. Your network name should match the information included on your equipment. Next, type in the provided password to log onto the web.

Your ISP-provided password is composed of scrambled numbers and letters. However, you can set your own home network password in your network settings. Create a strong password that's hard to guess.

If you're hooking up internet for the first time, an ISP technician will likely visit your home and set up your internet for you. They can also help you set up your network name and password.

For added security, your ISP will likely recommend an internet security software. Cybersecurity software protects your web browser and computer from malicious software, viruses, ransomware, and more threats.

There are also ISPs like CenturyLink that offer wifi with built-in security. CenturyLink provides customers with a secure internet gateway that protects against malware, botnet attacks, and viruses. Use your zip code to find out if CenturyLink offers this service in your area.

Extra security is essential for ISP customers with smart home technology. The more connected devices you have, like computers and smart home thermometers, the greater the need for internet security. You don't want hackers breaking into your home remotely.

Do I Need Any Equipment?

Equipment is always required to access the internet at home. You'll need at least an internet modem and router for cable and DSL connections. For high-speed satellite internet, you'll need to buy an additional Viasat or HughesNet satellite dish.

Internet equipment is easy to install. You can always have an ISP technician handle everything for you. The cost of your equipment is typically covered in your first month's payment.

You're not always limited to your ISP's equipment either. You can upgrade to a higher quality modem or router, as long as it's compatible with your ISP service. You may need to call your ISP to help you connect your internet over the phone.

If you decide to switch to a new home internet provider, you may be required to send your equipment back to the original ISP. There's also the option of dropping off your equipment at your ISP's retail location.

How Do I Connect to the Internet

Connecting to the internet should not be difficult with the right ISP. If you're frequently having a hard time logging on, that may be a red flag to switch to a new provider. It shouldn't take more than a few seconds to log onto your network and surf the web.

Test our your connection by visiting a popular homepage to see if it loads. There are also sites that test your website speed for you. If you're not happy with your web surfing speed, consider upgrading your monthly plan or switching to a new home internet provider.

What If There's a Problem with My Connection?

If your device isn't recognizing your home network name, try restarting your device, modem, and router. If the problem persists, call your ISP's customer service line. They may need to reconfigure your connection remotely.

If your password isn't working, you'll need to call your ISP immediately in case your connection is compromised. If your connection keeps dropping, there may be some interference that's obstructing the connection. Your ISP's technician can visit your home and inspect your wiring for any connection problems.

A hallmark of a top ISP is 24/7 assistance for troubleshooting. While field technicians work within specified service windows, a remote agent can walk you through troubleshooting steps on the phone. If you're frequently having issues getting the help you need, consider another internet provider in your area.

Your connection issues may be related to your home's electrical wiring. This is a common problem for homeowners who are unfamiliar with their home's wiring. If you're still having problems connecting to the internet, you may need to call a general electrician.

Are There Any Internet Deals and Specials?

You want to save every dollar you can. Fortunately, you can use special offers, deals, and discounts to keep your internet costs down. These offers are typically limited to new customers only or the first six months of service.

Most top ISPs offer deals. Specials are an excellent opportunity to try out an internet and TV bundle at a fraction of the cost. Plus, stay on the lookout for deals that apply to longtime customers, as well.

ISPs advertise special deals on their websites, but they also send out exclusive deals by mail. You may even score a deal on the phone while researching your options.

With a special offer, you could get monthly high-speed internet for under $40 or even additional services for free. These deals don't last, so you have to pounce on them when they're available.

Does the Home Internet Provider Have Customer Service

As more homeowners become dependent on the internet, stellar customer service is essential. Even when a connection goes down due to a storm, you need an ISP that picks up the phone when you call. An ISP that ignores your concerns is a big red flag.

If there isn't a retail location nearby, make sure your ISP is easily accessible in other ways. Your ISP should be available by phone, email, online chat, and in person. Friendly and reliable customer service is critical if you work from home.

Your ISP should also follow up to make sure an issue is resolved. They should also clearly communicate when there are outages in your area. Most ISPs will notify customers about outages when they call or have an outage map online.

Discover the Right ISP for Your Needs

You're just one step away from switching to a new ISP. Don't settle for home internet providers that don't accommodate your internet needs. Follow this guide to find an ISP that offers your preferred level of speed, bundled services, availability, and customer service. 

Are you ready to compare providers in your area? Get started by plugging in your zip code or call one of our internet experts to find the ideal plan for you. 

Internet Providers' Response to Coronavirus Pandemic Update

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted how we live, work, and connect. Internet providers have played a crucial role in ensuring that people stay connected during these challenging times. This article provides an update on how various internet service providers (ISPs) have responded to the pandemic, including new initiatives, support measures, and related articles for further reading.

Key Initiatives by Internet Providers

Keep Americans Connected Pledge

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai announced the Keep Americans Connected Initiative on March 13, 2020, and extended it to June 30, 2020. The pledge included commitments from more than 800 companies and associations to:

• Not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
• Waive any late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the pandemic.
• Open Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

During the pandemic, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) was launched to help low-income households stay connected. The program provided $30 monthly subsidies for internet bills, or $75 discounts in tribal or high-cost areas. However, the ACP is now out of funds, and its future remains uncertain. Many ISPs are preparing post-ACP plans to continue supporting their customers.

Specific Provider Responses

Verizon

Verizon introduced the "Verizon Forward" initiative, offering home internet for as low as $20/month. New customers could pay $0/month for the first six months they are enrolled.

AT&T

AT&T continued offering its "Access from AT&T" plan, which provides 100 Megabit speeds for $30/month. With the ACP’s $30 discount, this plan was previously free for some customers.

Comcast

Comcast’s "Internet Essentials" plan provides a low-cost connectivity option, with home internet starting from $9.95/month. Additionally, customers can transfer their ACP benefit to some plans.

Charter

Charter, the largest provider in the ACP program, has not made specific announcements about ACP replacements. However, some customers may be eligible for Spectrum’s Internet Assist Plan, offering 50 megabit internet for $24.99/month.

Local Government Initiatives

Local governments have also stepped up to address digital inclusion during the pandemic. Initiatives include:

• Expansion of free public Wi-Fi.
• Providing subsidies for home broadband service.
• Supporting gap networks through regulation, technical assistance, bulk equipment purchasing, and funding.
• Providing financial support to local organizations conducting outreach and guidance for federal broadband programs.

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Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of reliable internet access. While many ISPs have taken significant steps to support their customers during this time, the future of programs like the ACP remains uncertain. Continued efforts from both providers and local governments are essential to ensure that all Americans can stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

For more updates and information on internet service providers' responses to the pandemic, stay tuned to our blog.

How to Negotiate a Price Cut or New Deal with Your Internet Provider

Negotiating with your internet service provider (ISP) can lead to significant savings on your monthly bill. Whether you're looking to reduce costs, upgrade your plan, or secure better terms, effective negotiation requires preparation and strategy. This guide will help you navigate the process and get the best deal possible.

Key Steps to Negotiating with Your ISP

1. Assess Your Current Plan and Needs

Before you start negotiating, it's essential to understand your current plan and determine your needs. Ask yourself:

• What is your current monthly bill?
• What speed and data limits do you currently have?
• Are you experiencing any issues with your service?
• Do you need more speed or data?

Knowing your current plan's details will help you identify areas where you can negotiate for better terms.

2. Research Competitor Offers

Researching what other ISPs in your area offer can provide leverage during negotiations. Look for:

• Promotional rates for new customers
• Speeds and data limits
• Bundled services (e.g., internet, TV, phone)

Websites like BroadbandNow and CNET provide comprehensive comparisons of ISPs and their plans, which can be useful in your research.

3. Prepare Your Negotiation Points

When you contact your ISP, be prepared with specific points to discuss. These may include:

• Requesting the same promotional rates offered to new customers
• Highlighting long-term customer loyalty
• Mentioning competitor offers
• Asking for a higher speed or more data at the same price

4. Contact Your ISP

When you're ready to negotiate, call your ISP's customer service. Here are some tips for the call:

• Be Polite and Courteous: Kindness goes a long way. Customer service representatives are more likely to help if you're friendly and respectful.
• Be Persistent: If the first representative can't help, ask to speak with a manager or call back later.
• Be Prepared to Cancel: Mentioning that you're considering switching to a competitor can be a powerful negotiating tactic.

5. Follow Up

If you don't get the desired outcome on your first call, don't give up. Follow up with additional calls or try different customer service channels, such as online chat or email.

Example Negotiation Script

Here's a sample script to help guide your conversation with your ISP:

Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I've been a loyal customer for [X] years. I'm calling because I've noticed that new customers are being offered [specific promotion or rate], and I would like to see if I can get a similar deal. Additionally, I've seen that [competitor] is offering [specific offer], and I'm considering switching if I can't get a better rate with you. Can you help me with this?

Comparison of Popular ISPs and Their Plans

To help you prepare for negotiations, here is a comparison of internet plans from some popular ISPs:

Additional Tips

• Use Online Tools: Websites like BroadbandNow and Updater can help you compare ISPs and find the best deals.
• Look for Bundles: Bundling internet with TV and phone services can sometimes result in significant savings.
• Check for Discounts: Some ISPs offer discounts for students, military personnel, and low-income households.

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Conclusion

Negotiating with your ISP can lead to significant savings and better service. By assessing your needs, researching competitor offers, and preparing your negotiation points, you can increase your chances of securing a better deal. Remember to be polite, persistent, and prepared to follow up if necessary.

For more updates and information on internet service providers, stay tuned to our blog.

A Quick Overview of WOW! Internet and Cable

WOW! (WideOpenWest) is a regional cable and fiber internet provider that offers a variety of internet plans, including high-speed options and bundles with other services. This guide provides an updated overview of WOW! Internet and Cable, including a comparison table of the latest plans available from the provider.

Key Features of WOW! Internet

• No Contracts: WOW! internet plans do not require a contract, providing flexibility for customers.
• High Speeds: WOW! offers internet speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 5,000 Mbps, catering to different needs.
• Unlimited Data: Most plans come with unlimited data, eliminating worries about data caps.
• Whole-Home WiFi: WOW! provides Whole-Home WiFi solutions to ensure strong connectivity throughout your home.
• Affordable Pricing: WOW! offers competitive pricing, making it a cost-effective choice for many households.

WOW! Internet Plans

Here is a detailed comparison of the internet plans currently available from WOW!:

WOW! Bundles

WOW! also offers bundles that combine internet with other services like YouTube TV and home phone service. Here are some popular bundle options:

Additional Features and Benefits

• Whole-Home WiFi: WOW!'s Whole-Home WiFi system ensures strong connectivity throughout your home, eliminating dead zones.
• No Data Caps: Most WOW! plans come with unlimited data, so you don't have to worry about overage charges.
• Customer Support: WOW! offers 24/7 customer support to help with any issues or questions you may have.
• Flexible Equipment Options: You can rent a modem from WOW! or use your own compatible device.

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction

WOW! Internet and Cable have received mixed reviews from customers. While many appreciate the no-contract flexibility and competitive pricing, others have reported issues with customer service and occasional outages. It’s advisable to read customer reviews and consider local service reliability before making a decision.

Installation and Setup

WOW! offers professional installation services to ensure your internet and cable services are set up correctly. The installation fee is often waived during promotional periods, so be sure to check for any ongoing offers.

How to Sign Up for WOW! Internet and Cable

Signing up for WOW! services is straightforward. You can visit their website, enter your address to check availability, and choose a plan that suits your needs. Alternatively, you can call their customer service for assistance with selecting a plan and scheduling installation.

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Conclusion

WOW! offers a variety of internet plans and bundles to meet different needs and budgets. With high speeds, no contracts, and unlimited data options, WOW! is a great choice for many households. Whether you need basic internet for browsing and email or ultra-fast speeds for streaming and gaming, WOW! has a plan that can meet your needs.

For more updates and information on internet service providers, stay tuned to our blog.

Choosing the Right Internet Service Providers When Working from Home 

Working from home has become a necessity for many, and having a reliable internet connection is crucial for productivity. This guide will help you choose the right Internet Service Provider (ISP) for your remote work needs in 2020, updated with the latest information and related articles for further reading.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Speed

Internet speed is one of the most critical factors to consider when working from home. Different activities require different speeds:

• Basic web browsing and email: At least 5 Mbps
• Quality streaming and video conferencing: At least 20 Mbps
• Transferring large files: At least 35 Mbps
• Multiple people working from home: At least 50 Mbps

For more detailed information on internet speeds, check out How Fast Does Internet Need to Be for Streaming, Gaming, and More?

2. Bandwidth

Bandwidth refers to the maximum volume of data that can be transmitted over your internet connection in a given amount of time. If you have multiple devices connected simultaneously, you'll need higher bandwidth to avoid slowdowns.

3. Reliability

An unreliable connection can disrupt your work and cause frustration. Look for ISPs with high uptime guarantees and positive customer reviews regarding reliability.

4. Customer Support

Good customer support is crucial, especially if you encounter issues with your internet connection. Ensure that the ISP offers 24/7 customer support and has a reputation for resolving issues promptly.

5. Data Caps

Some ISPs impose data caps, which can limit the amount of data you can use each month. For remote work, especially if it involves video conferencing and large file transfers, it's best to choose an ISP that offers unlimited data plans.

6. Price

While cost shouldn't be the only factor, it is essential to find an ISP that offers good value for money. Compare the prices of different ISPs and the features they offer to ensure you get the best deal.

Types of Internet Connections

Different types of internet connections offer varying speeds and reliability:

Fiber Internet

Fiber internet is the fastest and most reliable option available. It offers high speeds and low latency, making it ideal for remote work. Providers like AT&T Fiber and Google Fiber are excellent choices.

Cable Internet

Cable internet also provides high speeds and is widely available. Companies like Spectrum and Cox offer robust cable internet plans suitable for remote work.

DSL

DSL internet can provide decent speeds, but its performance can degrade if you are far from the provider's hub. AT&T offers reliable DSL plans.

Satellite Internet

Satellite internet is generally slower and less reliable than other types, but it can be a good option for those in rural areas. Viasat and HughesNet are the primary providers.

Best Internet Providers for Remote Work

Based on current availability and the criteria outlined, the leading ISPs for remote work include:

• Verizon Fios: Known for its high speeds and reliability.
• AT&T Fiber: Offers competitive pricing for gigabit speeds.
• Google Fiber: Provides fast speeds and excellent customer service.
• Xfinity: Reliable cable internet with wide availability.
• Spectrum: Offers no-contract plans with unlimited data.

For more details on the best ISPs, check out Best Internet Providers for 2024.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right ISP is crucial for a smooth and productive remote work experience. Consider factors such as speed, bandwidth, reliability, customer support, data caps, and price when making your decision. By doing thorough research and comparing different options, you can find an ISP that meets your needs and ensures a seamless work-from-home experience.

For more updates and information on internet service providers, stay tuned to our blog.