Many people are frustrated with their internet connections. They may lose the connection right in the middle of a big game and miss out on the action, or they may be paying a lot of money for a connection that only works part of the time. However, they worry about switching providers because they could get something worse than they currently have. How can they switch providers and improve their internet connection without worrying about new issues?
Know What You Need
Before switching internet service, a person must know what they need. Some individuals want faster upload speeds, while others want to cut costs. Make a list of all connected devices to determine what is required. These devices use internet speed. The higher the number of devices, the more speed will be required.
Termination Fees
Research termination fees charged by the current and potential provider to learn how much switching will cost. Review the current contract to get this information. If the renewal period is approaching, set a reminder to call and cancel the service before the contract expires. Look for a provider that doesn’t charge these fees. While the monthly fees may be slightly higher, a person has peace of mind knowing they won’t be stuck with unreliable internet service.
Research Available Providers
Internet service providers vary by location. Learn upload and download speeds for each provider; higher speeds mean faster internet. Streaming will be easier, gaming will be seamless, and search results return faster with high-speed internet.
However, learn whether there is a data cap. When this cap is reached, the internet service slows. Some providers impose this cap, and it falls on subscribers to know if they will regularly exceed it. If so, another service should be selected.
Monthly fees are only one factor to consider when comparing internet service providers. People also need to know the up-front costs, such as installation. Ask about bundling options to see if a package deal will be less expensive.
Contact the Current Service Provider
Give the current provider one more attempt to keep a customer. Many companies will offer a sweet deal to keep an existing customer because they know doing so costs less than trying to gain a new one. Let them know that a move to a new provider is being considered to learn what they will offer to match or beat that provider.
Make the Switch
If the current ISP cannot provide a reasonable offer, it’s time to move. Call and set up the new service. However, don’t cancel the existing service until the new service is in place to ensure there is no gap in service. Nobody wants to learn that they cannot get their work done or will miss their favorite show because there is a gap between when the current service ends and when the new one starts.
Cancel the Old Service
Once the new service is in place and working, it’s time to call and cancel the old service. This process should be quick and easy. The provider may try to offer a better deal, but let them know the switch has already been made because they weren’t responsive during the previous call.
Switching to a new provider isn’t as difficult as many imagine. Research the available options today. Those who do so often can get better service with little effort. It never hurts to try.