How to switch internet providers: An essential guide
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At some point, most people will need to switch internet service providers (ISPs). You might want a faster speed, a better connection or a cheaper price, or you might be moving homes and need to find a provider in your new neighborhood.
Whatever the reason, you may be able to choose a new internet plan from several ISPs in your area. Factors like location (rural vs. urban), city size and existing infrastructure can impact the best internet providers available at your address. Still, typical homes will usually have the choice of two to five internet companies and connection types available.
Why should you switch internet providers?
Switching internet providers provides the opportunity for you to optimize your home Wi-Fi experience. Benefits of changing internet providers include:
- Better internet service: Many people switch broadband providers for a faster or more reliable internet connection.
- Save money: Switching internet providers lets you take advantage of new customer promotions, including one or more years of reduced-price internet, free devices, free installation and more.
- Improved satisfaction: If you are not entirely happy with your current ISP’s policies or customer service, search for an ISP with better customer satisfaction reviews.
How to switch internet providers
Switching internet providers doesn’t have to be a hassle. It can be a straightforward process if you do some homework beforehand. The main steps to changing internet providers include 1) knowing your options, 2) choosing the best plan based on your needs, 3) signing up for service and 4) getting it installed. This guide will help you seamlessly switch internet providers.
Know your internet options
The easiest way to determine which high-speed internet providers service your area is to search online. Use the tools on this page to shop internet plans in your ZIP code. While the average cost of internet is between $40 and $80/mo., there are also options for cheaper internet plans as well as other general ways to save money on internet. The best internet deals and promotions are highlighted so you can easily find and compare discounts without having to visit multiple provider websites.
Choose the right internet plan for you
Generally, choosing the right plan for you starts with determining a good internet speed for your home based on the online activities and the number of Wi-Fi devices (computers, tablets, cell phones, etc.) you connect. You may also be searching for a particular type of plan, such as a prepaid or no-contract internet option, when you switch broadband services.
If you want faster internet service, make sure you know the speed you’re currently getting by running a speed test. Depending on what’s available in your area, you may be able to get 1 GB internet or even multi-gig plans. Upgrading your download and upload speeds may require switching to another connection type.
Cable and 5G internet offer optimal speeds for streaming, while fiber internet providers offer the best Wi-Fi for gaming. If you connect fewer devices or use the internet for more basic activities, such as web browsing and email, you can select a slower internet plan and connection type, such as DSL, fixed wireless or satellite internet.
Sign up for service
Before you change internet service providers, check reviews for the providers and plans that interest you. Our internet provider assessments are based on a five-point scale calculated from over a dozen data points. Factors such as speeds, modem and router fees, data limits, customer satisfaction and more are taken into account.
Find comprehensive insight in our provider reviews on over 30 internet companies. These evaluations include top names like AT&T, T-Mobile and Xfinity, as well as regional ISPs such as Sonic Internet, Buckeye Broadband and Metronet.
After shopping for internet plans from the options in your ZIP code, sign up for service online in minutes.
Get new internet service installed
You can start the process of changing internet service providers and setting up new service as soon as today. Here’s how to switch internet providers in three easy steps:
- Explore internet plans. Shop internet at your location based on your ZIP code.
- Choose a plan. Pick your best internet plan based on speed, devices or other preferences. You can even find TV and internet bundles, internet for seniors or business internet.
- Sign up online. Subscribe to a service online and schedule your installation date within minutes.
Where do I start?
When switching internet providers, start by finding the providers in your area and the speed, price, and customer reviews of each ISP. Compare internet plans and promotions, then decide on a plan and sign up for service.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
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