Nowadays, the internet has become an important utility. All our smartphones, Smart TVs, home appliances, or IoT products require a connection to the internet. In its absence, it is easy to get frustrated. Your internet service provider understands how important the internet is in every household, and they try to ensure the best internet service possible. However, the promise of quality service is sometimes unfulfilled. There are multiple reasons for this: poor connection, ever-increasing prices, and slower download speed.
If you are with an internet provider that barely performs when you need them the most, it is time to switch to a new one. More than 2000 providers are operating in the United States. There is a high chance that you will find many other providers in your area with better speed and connectivity. However, look for the indicators mentioned in the article to switch the network. Most of the time, you have the right provider, but the plan is not sufficient to meet your requirements.
You have connectivity issues now and then
We are connected to the internet 24/7. There is no fixed time to stream your favorite show, play Call of Duty Online, or download files. Therefore, whenever you feel like using the internet, it should be able to deliver. Many consumers face connectivity issues at different times of the day. It is mainly due to the poor service provider. As a result, you are left with no reason to keep the service provider. Therefore, if you have frequent connectivity issues and the services go down now and then, it is time to look for a different provider.
The monthly bill gets higher every month
While signing up for the internet service, there should be transparency in the amount you will be paying every month. However, many providers will intimate the monthly charge for the first year. They try to dodge the question for the second year. In the majority of cases, discounts are valid for one year. The prices rise after the end of the promotional term. If you feel like you are paying too much for the internet service and the price is not justified then it is safe to switch the service provider.
The data is limited
Ideally, there should not be any limit to how much internet you can use in a month, and there are several providers that completely agree to this. For example, Spectrum has no data caps so that it’s customers can enjoy their online activities without worrying about overage fees.
However, many providers have fixed data caps too. If you go over your monthly data, you are charged a good amount for extra usage. As a result, your monthly bill goes much higher than expected. Therefore, if your family has extensive usage that involves HD streaming, online gaming, and downloading, ideally look for a provider with unlimited data.
Customer service is poor
Consumers should understand their rights. They pay monthly dues, monthly rentals for the equipment, and taxes, fees, & surcharges on top. Therefore, they should get what they pay for. Good customer service is a part of that experience. Your grievances and issues should be solved. If your provider has a poor customer service that barely solves the issue, it is better to switch to a provider with excellent customer service.
Frequent power outages
Internet-delivered through cable or fiber may have power outages. Many popular providers have backup generators even if there is a power outage. These issues happen once in a while, normally. If your internet provider has a history of frequent power outages, it is time to look for a better provider.
Connection type
There are many different types of connections through which we get the internet. Satellite internet is common in areas where others cannot reach. The satellite internet is comparatively slower, and the one-time equipment cost is huge. Many areas have DSL connections as well. These connections use the wires similar to phone lines. Out of all the connection types, fiber and cable are the most reliable ones. An extensive network of coaxial cables powers Cable internet. The fiber technology is more advanced. It uses a network of glass cables. Both these connections get you internet speeds up to 1 Gigabit per second. Cable networks are very common and cover most of the states of the US. Fiber technology is new and limited to certain areas. There is also a high infrastructure cost associated with a fiber network.
If you have a satellite or DSL connection, if cable or fiber is available, you should switch to either one of them. Cable and fiber connections are reliable and have ultra-fast speeds.
How to find a good internet service provider?
Finding a decent internet service provider might prove to be hectic as there are many providers available in the market these days. Follow these steps:
- Research: Ask your friends, family, or neighbors about their experience with this new provider you plan to get.
- Understand your usage requirement: Finding the right plan is equally important. You need to understand your usage requirement. If you have an extensive usage that requires streaming movies or TV shows in 4K and online gaming, go for the maximum speed available. If you have less usage, around 100 Mbps is fine.
- Check the price: You would want your internet provider to be budget-friendly. Inquire about the prices before signing up for any network. The best way to do so is by calling their customer support. Inquire about taxes, rental fees, surcharges, or extra bucks on top of the advertised price. They will give you a complete breakdown. Get the plan if it fits your budget!
Featured Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay
