Home internet service is a must in the modern world. Work, play, and school often take place online, so being connected is vital. The following steps can help you select the right internet provider for your needs.
1. Choose a Speed Option
Internet packages come at varying speeds, and the speed you choose depends on how you use your internet access. Light users typically use the internet for simple things like web surfing and email use, which only requires about 3 Mbps of download speed. Gamers should upgrade to at least 4 Mbps, while frequent streamers may need 5 Mbps or more. Upload speed needs for the average household, including those that do some video conferencing, may need 10 Mbps or more of upload speed, but those that regularly work from home may need more.
2. Select a Delivery Method
The next option is how the internet is delivered to your home. The options are typically cable, DSL, satellite, or fiber. Generally, urban areas have the greatest variety of options. Fiber and cable are your best options for speed and reliability, while satellite is typically the most affordable but the slowest and least reliable. Availability will play the greatest role in your decision. In urban areas, cable and DSL are typically available, while rural areas may be limited to only DSL or satellite options. If you live somewhere with fiber internet, this will likely be your best option in terms of affordability, speed, and reliability.
3. Save With Bundles
You may be able to lower your internet cost by bundling it with other services, so look at the bundling options when choosing a provider. Cable internet is often available at a lower rate if you bundle it with a cable TV or a streaming package, whereas DSL is typically bundled with your home phone service. Satellite services can be bundled with a TV package or even a cellular phone service, depending on the provider. If you plan to purchase the other service anyway, it can save you money to compare bundling options across the different providers.
4. Pick Out Your Equipment
Once you have narrowed down your provider options, compare equipment needs. Some providers include the equipment in the cost of service, while others will charge a monthly rental fee in addition to your bill. You also have the choice of purchasing the equipment on your own, which allows you to avoid rental fees. If you can't afford to purchase the equipment outright, you may also be given a rent to own option on any necessary equipment.
Contact an internet provider, such as Lumos Networks, in your area for more assistance.
Share6 August 2020
As a young single mom, the world is constantly filled with new challenges. When we moved into the place where we are now, I had to figure out how to lift heavy furniture all by myself and set up a myriad of service providers and utilities. Although it probably shouldn't have been hard, one of my greatest challenges was figuring out who to work with to get the Internet. At first, they all seemed the same, but after a little more research, I was able to track down the company I felt comfortable with. I want to make life easier for my fellow single mommas, which is why this blog is dedicated to helping you to choose contractors, service providers, and companies to work with.
