If you’re eager to upgrade to lightning-fast fiber optic internet or pick an internet provider for the first time, remember some essential factors. Today, homes often have many devices for family members to stream HD video, gaming, video calls, and more all at once. Having a really fast, lag-free connection is now pretty much a necessity.
In this article, we’ll review the key things one considers when choosing high speed internet packages and providers available in our area.
Understanding Internet Speeds
When providers advertise Internet speeds like 100Mbps or 1Gbps, these refer to the download and upload speeds. Download speed determines how fast you can pull data like websites, streaming content, etc., from the Internet to your devices. Upload speed determines how quickly you can transfer data from your devices to the home Internet, like sending email attachments or sharing photos.
For an excellent high-speed connection that can handle multiple devices streaming HD video, the FCC recommends minimum speeds of 25Mbps download and 3Mbps upload. However, faster is better, especially if you have several family members frequently using bandwidth-intensive apps simultaneously.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Internet Near Me
1. Checking Availability
First see what kinds of high-speed internet networks have been built out in your area. Choices may include cable, DSL, fiber optic cable, or some fixed wireless providers. Fiber lines that run directly to your home are typically best for fast gigabit speeds. Plug your address into provider websites to see what they service in your neighborhood. If the faster options aren’t available yet, you can sign up for updates on when they might reach you.
2. Comparing Speed Packages
Once you see what’s available, look at their packages’ specific download/upload speed options. Consider how you use the Internet — a number of users, devices, and bandwidth activities like streaming Ultra HD movies or high-resolution video calls. This will help gauge what speeds will suit your household’s needs now and soon. Many providers offer several tiers, from basic speeds up to 1Gbps or more. Also, find out if the speed advertised is for download/upload or download only.
3. Assessing Reliability
It’s not all about raw speed numbers. A reliable, stable connection is hugely important. You definitely don’t want interruptions when you’re video chatting or in the middle of binging your favorite show. Research each provider’s reputation for reliable connectivity by reading recent customer reviews and checking ratings. Look into what guarantees and SLAs they offer should you experience network issues or outages.
4. Pricing and Fees
Price is a major factor when looking for wifi providers. Compare each available provider’s monthly fees for packages with speeds that meet your household’s needs, taking into account any promotional pricing and length of contracts. Also, confirm any equipment rental fees for modems/routers needed to deliver their service to your home. Other things to look into are data caps, installation/activation charges, taxes, and hidden fees that can quickly add up. Getting the specifics on the total cost of ownership is important.
5. Quality of Customer Support
Last but certainly not least is judging the provider’s before- and after-sales customer support. You want to feel confident that any issues getting set up or problems down the road can be promptly resolved with helpful and knowledgeable assistance. Check ratings when seeking internet in my area to know their support quality and availability through reviews, chat, ticketing, and phone.
The Bottom Line
Researching these key factors before choosing an internet provider and plan can help you find the best fit to provide your home or apartment with fast, reliable high-speed internet service. Take advantage of all that quality fiber internet offers, with great connectivity for work productivity or endless entertainment options for the entire household.
