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A reliable internet service provider (ISP) is crucial to both homeowners and tenants. Whether you’re a home-based worker, movie buff, or someone hopping across social media platforms, a fast, dependable internet connection is key. This guide will help you choose the best internet provider based on your unique needs.
Step 1: Determine Your Internet Needs
You can’t compare other ISPs until you’ve determined how much internet usage you actually need. First, consider the fact that you use the internet on a daily basis. You’re likely plugged in from the moment you wake up to the moment you close your eyes at night. However, if that usage is just for general browsing and keeping in touch via email, you definitely don’t need a plan that offers all the bells and whistles.
But if you regularly watch high-definition videos, play online games, or teleconference from home, an advanced plan is likely a necessity.
Step 2: Research Availability and Coverage
Coverage areas can be tricky to navigate. Even if you are moving 10 minutes down the road, you may find yourself outside the range of your previous ISP. Here at SmarterHome.ai, we provide an easy-to-use zip code tool to help you find coverage options in your current or future dwelling. Check it out below!
Step 3: Compare Internet Plans
Consider the following three factors when choosing which plan is right for you:
- Speed and Bandwidth – Internet speed is measured by the rate at which data is transferred. For example, experts suggest a minimum connection speed of 25 megabits per second (Mbps) for anyone streaming HDR content, but that’s just for one device. If you don’t have enough internet to go around, the lag on your connection speed will become more noticeable with each new device you connect.
- Data Caps – Some ISPs allow a certain amount of data usage in a month, and when users go over that ceiling, they may be charged for the overage or experience a much slower connection speed. For internet use, look for providers that have a high or unlimited data usage allowance.
- Contract Terms – Compare the terms and conditions of each ISP, and understand that some may offer longterm plans while others will not. Breaking a contract can incur penalties in the form of fees – so don’t skim it!
Step 4: Assess Customer Service
Whatever ISP you choose, you want to make sure they can address any problems that occur in the shortest time possible. Seek out a company’s ratings and reviews and find out what previous customers had to say about their support experience.
Step 5: Consider Bundling Options
Many providers offer TV and mobile services alongside their internet, and these bundles may offer discounted rates compared to the normal single-service rate. This may save you some bucks and cut down on your paperwork. One bill is always preferable to several.
Step 6: Read Reviews and Ratings
Yes, we mentioned checking the customer support reviews in Step 4, but those aren’t the only reviews you should look for! Consumer opinions offer insight into the strengths and weaknesses of an internet service provider.
Check those reviews for what customers say about a provider’s speed, reliability, and installation practices. Were the installers professional and courteous, or were they rude and left a mess behind?
Step 7: Assess Equipment and Installation Costs
Some ISPs include the modem and router in their internet package while others rent these devices to customers for a monthly fee. Still others give customers the option to purchase them.
When it comes time to install these devices in your home, some companies charge for that service, whereas others may do it for free. Consider these costs, too, when deciding which provider is right for you.
Step 8: Look for Promotions and Discounts
Most ISPs will offer some attractive options for new customers, such as free installation or charging a lesser rate for the first year of service. This is another area that SmarterHome.ai can assist you with: collating these new customer deals and comparing them across available providers.
Give our internet experts a call today and find out what discounts you might be eligible for.
Step 9: Make Your Decision
Once you’ve covered steps one through eight, you will be ready to make your decision. After assessing which provider best suits your needs and budget, contact them to get the process started. Again, SmarterHome.ai can make this easy and convenient–and also inform you of any bundles or special plans the ISPs currently offer.
Tips for Different Living Situations
Homeowners
Because homeowners do not have a landlord to answer to, they generally have a lot more flexibility in terms of installation options. However, a homeowner will probably require faster internet speeds or bandwidth to service all the people living under their roof. Bundling internet with mobile and TV is often the most cost-effective option
Renters
Depending on the terms they sign when they move into their dwelling, renters are sometimes limited in their internet options. Building managers may have deals with only one provider, or restrict more invasive installations. Renters can benefit from providers that offer monthly contracts, avoiding penalty fees if or when they decide to move. In some cases, portable internet hotspots can be the most convenient option.
Shared Accommodation
If you are staying in a shared house or a flat, then you can pool budgets and get a higher-tiered plan. Not just cost effective, this option ensures everyone can enjoy fast internet even when multiple devices are connected..
Rural Areas
Coverage can be severely limited or nonexistent for rural and remote areas. However, satellite ISPs can provide internet services where traditional cable cannot.
Conclusion
As you can see, evaluating which ISP is best for you requires more than a simple comparison of internet speed and cost. You need to check their reputation through customer reviews, assess individual coverage and contracts, and determine whether cable or satellite is your most efficient option.
Think you’re ready to find the best internet plan for your home? Visit SmarterHome.ai to speak with our experts and get personalized recommendations. We’ll help you nab the best savings or combine all your services into one convenient bundle.
