With all the options available on the market for internet service providers, it can be overwhelming to find the right option for your requirements. Read on for a step-by-step guide to select an internet service provider for your needs.
Speed
Most internet service providers focus on providing the highest speeds that they can. When deciding on a provider, it is important to consider the download speed you will need depending on your data usage, Another factor worth considering is whether the service is offered over cable or DSL/fiber, as cable speeds can fluctuate through the day.
Data Caps
It is important to consider if an internet service provider puts a monthly “cap” on the amount of data you can download at high speeds. This is especially important in the case that you frequently watch high-resolution videos online, as non-video web surfing and email usage will generally never involve leading to crossing a data cap.
Additional Costs
Ask the service provider about the requirement of a modem or a router. While some companies provide these others may charge you for them as hidden costs. It is important to know about this before signing.
Introductory Deals
Make sure to check if the price they are offering is an introductory price. And if it is, when it will be adjusted and by how much. You should then accordingly use the “regular” price for comparison and only use the “introductory” price if you’re breaking a tie.
Add-Ons
Some internet service providers will also attempt to sell you add-ons like antivirus software and firewalls. Avoid purchasing these, as there are several good options available in the market for free.
Making the Choice
Before making your decision, consider the following:
– Cable versus DSL versus fiber option – While each has its benefits, DSL or Fiber tends to provide more reliable speeds compared to a cable connection.
– What’s the price per Mbps? Write down what they’re advertising as their speed and the total cost, then divide the value by the speed. This is the cost per Mbps and the metric you should use for comparisons.
Ideally, at this stage, you should be left with one choice – the right choice.
