Currently, the internet has become one of the most significant necessities.
For me, it is everything.
I can’t shop, I can’t work, I can’t entertain myself, and there are so many more things that are faltered just because of the absence of the internet. And I am sure that most of you do understand and relate to what I am saying.
Having said that, if you are reading this, then either you are moving or you are just tired of your current internet provider. I was sailing in the same boat as you six months ago. But luckily, I had several internet service providers in my area, so I got a great deal while switching my provider.
If you, too, want the best deal and a hassle-free switching process, then read on to find out the checklist I used when switching my internet provider a while ago.
Availability
First things first, you need to check the availability of the providers in your area. Multiple websites like LocalCableDeals offer the ZIP code functionality, and what it does is offer you a list of available ISPs in your area.
Just enter that, and a list of available providers will be visible in your vicinity. Once you have listed down the providers, it is time you shorten your list by including only the ones that offer fiber internet connectivity. Once you are done with that, head on to the next step.
Well, now, you might be wondering what is the best alternative to a fiber internet?
In my opinion, the next best bet you have is cable internet. Cable internet isn’t considered as reliable as fiber internet, but it depends on the provider as well. For example, I have traveled across the US and tried countless internet providers: the best cable internet I found was from Cox Internet.
Compare the Shortlisted Providers
OK, so at this point, ideally, you will have a list of providers that offer fiber internet connectivity. Now, you need to compare them for their plans, pricing, and other perks they offer.
For example, Optimum Internet doesn’t have any data caps or contracts with its plans. This is a huge advantage, especially for power users like myself. You don’t worry about paying the data overage fee or early termination fee if you choose to unsubscribe.
Other things that should be taken into account are internet speeds and customer reviews. So, check for the plans that offer enough speed without burning a hole in your pocket. They should be value for money. If you deem that the plans are great value for money, then it would be time to read the customer reviews.
The best way to find authentic and genuine customer reviews is to dive deep into Reddit. Read the relevant threads where users have explained their experience with a certain provider.
Check for the Speed
This might just be the most important factor while choosing an internet service provider. Why? Because your entire online life depends on it.
For example, if you want to stream in 4K, and your internet speed is just 10 Mbps (or not even that), you won’t be able to stream your movie, and all you will see is a wheel moving every now and then.
On the flip side, if you work from home (the way I do), you might need higher upload speeds for your meetings, uploading files, and stuff like that.
Having said that, the first thing you need to do is evaluate how much speed you would need. For example, if you have 4-5 devices that need a constant internet connection, I recommend getting at least a 300 Mbps plan. If there are more devices than the ones I mentioned, it is better to get an even higher speed plan for seamless connectivity.
I suffered the same when I had a 100 Mbps plan. Not all of my devices worked seamlessly, and I was yelling at my internet provider all the time. The problem wasn’t my internet provider; it was my internet plan.
The bottom line is that always evaluate your needs and subscribe to a perfect plan according to your needs.
Check for Any Hidden Fees
This is a must if you want to avoid a surprise burden on your wallet.
Very often, the providers won’t provide details on the other charges that might accompany your monthly bill, like equipment rental fees, overage fees, and more. Some providers might not be transparent up front about the additional charges. So, do ask them how much you will actually pay monthly, including the cost of everything from the equipment to the data plan.
