An internet service provider, or ISP, brings internet information into a home or service area where the data is accessible by a modem and router.
An ISP’s responsibility typically ends at the modem, where internet users can install a router to complete the internet connection and transfer data to devices. Devices in the home connect to the router through a wired connection or Wi-Fi signal.
Most internet providers offer multiple connection plans for which they charge a monthly fee. Some provide other equipment or services and allow customers to bundle services for discounted pricing. ISPs vary prices based on the type and speed of the connection as well as how much data the customer uses.
Taking all of this in consideration, it can be difficult to choose an internet service provider, especially when you’re limited to a select few offered in your area. Some of the factors you should consider when making a decision include:
Availability
This will likely be the largest factor in your decision. While most of the country can access the internet from home one way or another, few ISPs are available in more than half of the country. That means you’ll likely have to choose from the one or select few that are available where you live. Start your search by identifying the ISPs available to you.
Speed
Depending on how you use the internet, speed is often the most important factor outside of availability. The connection speed you choose will affect how you can use the internet and the price you’ll pay. Useful internet connection speeds vary from about 5 Mbps to over 1,000 Mbps.
Slower internet speeds are sufficient for checking email and basic internet browsing. Faster speeds are necessary for gaming, video streaming and transferring large files. According to our streaming statistics, Americans spend an average of three hours and nine minutes per day streaming digital media, so it’s important to choose internet speeds that accommodate these needs. The fastest speeds available come through fiber optic networks and can reach up to 8,000 Mbps, or 8 Gbps.
Cost
Cost is typically closely tied to connection speed and data availability. Faster connections and larger data caps, including unlimited monthly data, are more expensive than slower connections with less data available. Customers can control costs somewhat by purchasing slower connections with less speed. Some ISPs allow customers to purchase their own modems and routers to eliminate the associated monthly rental costs.
Reliability
Choosing a reliable connection and provider can mean the difference between a useful connection and utter frustration. For those who rely on having the internet available at all times, check local reviews or FCC reports regarding broadband reliability before committing to an ISP.
Bundling
Many ISPs are also communication companies. Communication companies may offer cable television, cellular phone service or landlines. Most of these providers allow consumers to bundle their internet connections with one or more of these additional services to take advantage of reduced pricing.
Data Caps
A data cap set by an ISP is the amount of data your connection plan allows. When the data cap is reached and surpassed, your ISP may throttle your connection. Throttling means to slow the connection speed dramatically. While many ISPs offer unlimited data, few provide truly unlimited data with no speed throttling. Some ISPs allow customers to purchase more data after reaching their cap to avoid slower connection speeds.
Connection Type
Available internet connection types include 4G LTE, satellite, fixed wireless, DSL, 5G, cable and fiber optic. Depending on where you live and your precise location, one or several of those might be available. The type you choose can affect your overall connection speed and reliability. 4G LTE is a slower cellular connection available in many locations. Fiber, on the other hand, features high speeds but is only available in limited areas.
Contracts
ISP contracts are falling out of favor. Many providers now offer month-to-month terms and may promise pricing discounts or other perks for a specific duration after signing up for service. However, some holdouts still require customers to sign a one or two-year contract. Contracts are more common in areas with few internet connection options. If you must sign one, read and understand the details before committing.
EXPERT TIPS
How can you find available internet deals?
Sami Allen
Managing Editor
Kristin Salaky
Lead Editor
Lexie Pelchen
Deputy Editor
Check With Providers Directly
You can find internet deals online, usually right on a provider’s website. You can also call the provider directly and ask for the latest deals. Most internet companies have deals going on throughout the year, so you’re likely to catch one.
Do Your Research
Like companies in many other industries, internet providers want to entice you to join on as a customer and, as such, often have deals for new customers. While researching companies, look over their current deals on their company websites. However, if you’re particularly interested in a provider, but don’t see a deal that you’re completely satisfied with, it may be a good idea to call and speak to a customer service representative. They may be able to help you bundle services to get an even better deal or access deals that are unclear or not available online.
Check Online
To get the best internet deals, start by determining the internet needs of your household including upload and download speeds, the number of devices you’ll want to have connected, maximum amount of Wi-Fi usage you’ll require and so on. From there, determine which providers in your area can meet those requirements. After that, check online and see what deals any prospective providers are advertising. And to cover all of your bases, call the company, tell them your needs and ask what deals they have available. Compare and contrast deals from several different providers to ensure you’re getting the best offer.
