Do you know how many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are currently operating in the country?
Well, take a guess! 200? 500? 750? 1500!?
You’ll be surprised to know that a little over 2,800 ISPs are offering their services to the American population. Like most people, I was clueless about this fact, and it was only until I had moved into a new house and researched about a top-notch internet connection did I come to know about it.
While having so many ISPs is great, as people have several options to choose from, I believe there is an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. Choosing an ISP can become a confusing and exhausting process, and not to forget the time it takes to find the best and most reliable one.
Well, don’t fret if you’re feeling the same way, because I’ve found the perfect solution on how to figure out the best ISP out there.
All you need to do is take care of a few factors, some of which I’ve mentioned below, and narrow down your options. Want to know more about these factors? Keep on reading to find out.
Type of Connection
The first factor you should always consider before subscribing to an ISP is to determine the internet connection type you want. Keep in mind that the internet connection type you choose will significantly impact your internet speed.
Below are some of the most famous internet connection types:
- Fiber
- Cable
- DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)
- Satellite
- 5G
- Dial-Up
That being said, you may need to figure out which ISPs in your zip code offer the internet connection type you want. It’s because the availability of an internet connection type largely depends on its infrastructure.
For instance, cable internet has 82% nationwide availability, whereas fiber internet is only available to 43% of the population.
The reason behind greater availability of cable internet is because it uses the same technology that was used to deliver the cable TV, i.e., coaxial cables. On the other hand, fiber internet use fiber optic, an advanced technology that is still rolling out in most parts of the country.
Additionally, keep in mind that the lesser the availability of an internet connection type, the pricier its plans may be. It’s because ISPs may need to develop the infrastructure to offer specific connection types in an area.
Quality of Customer Support
Solid and reliable customer support is the right of every customer, and when choosing an ISP, make sure you get it. Even though there are multiple benefits of quality customer support, I believe the biggest one is when they offer the right guidance.
Let me share my personal story.
I have already told you above that I moved into a new house and needed a high-speed connection. As I had a little knowledge about ISPs, I dialed a few numbers and one of them was for Spectrum customer service.
I had no idea about my household’s internet consumption and the speeds I needed. So, I asked a few naïve questions and Spectrum customer service rep answered them all, one by one. To date, I’m still subscribed to the same internet plan and never really felt the need to change it.
So, whenever you’re looking for an ISP, don’t underestimate the quality of customer support, as you may need it more than you realize.
Promotions and Perks
Understandably, people prioritize high-speed internet when they switch to a new ISP. Even though I agree that it should be a primary factor while choosing an ISP, why settle for less when you can also get additional perks and benefits without paying anything extra?
Luckily, there are several ISPs today that offer more than just blazing-fast Internet. Below, I will explain a few perks you should always look for when subscribing to a new ISP:
- Internet Equipment: Some ISPs offer free routers and modems, or you can rent the latest internet equipment from them.
- Security Gateway: You may also get a free security gateway for safe and secure web browsing.
- Promotional Offers for New Customers: ISPs may offer discounts or protection from price hikes to new customers.
- WiFi Hotspot Zones: Reliable ISPs often offer free WiFi hotspot zones around the country and decrease your dependence on mobile data or malicious public hotspots.
Internet Bundle Offers
Even though internet bundling may not suit everyone, it’s a great option for people who use different services like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), TV, home security, and more.
Internet bundling allows you to pay for these services in a single, bundled plan. It means that instead of paying for these services separately, you receive a single bill. Also, since you’d be bundling these services from a single service provider, you’ll have a single point of contact in case of any queries.
Additionally, most ISPs may also offer special discounts on bundled options. Though it may not be necessary, bundling different services with internet may cost less than using them separately with most ISPs.
Miscellaneous Factors
Besides the factors discussed above, there are a few more considerable things to watch out for when choosing a new ISP. These are:
- Additional Charges: While some ISPs offer different perks and benefits for free, some ISPs may do the opposite and charge extra for their services. For instance, ISPs may charge you for using their equipment or for other services. And, as their user, you should always know about those additional charges that ISPs may impose.
- Contracts: Some ISPs bind you into a contract when you subscribe to their services. And they may charge you a fee if you terminate the contract before it ends.
- Data Caps: Not all, but some ISPs impose a data cap on their internet plans and packages. And, if you use more data than the allocated limit, then ISPs may charge an overage fee. So, if you’re a heavy-data user, it’s best to subscribe to an ISP that offers uncapped internet plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest internet connection type?
Fiber internet is the fastest connection type, and it exclusively offers symmetrical speeds, i.e., similar upload and download speeds.
What is an acceptable internet speed?
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), download speeds of 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 20 Mbps are acceptable.
How long is the contract term of most ISPs?
Although the contract term varies from one ISP to another, most ISPs have a 12-month contract period on their internet plans.