ISPs provide internet information to homes or service areas where data can be accessed through modems and routers.
The ISP’s responsibilities usually end at the modem. Internet users install a router to complete the Internet connection and transfer data to their devices. Devices in the home connect to the router via a wired connection or a Wi-Fi signal.
Most ISPs offer several connection plans and charge a monthly fee. Some ISPs offer other equipment or services and can bundle their services at a discounted price. ISPs vary their prices based on the type and speed of the connection and the customer’s data usage.
Taking all this into account, choosing an internet service provider can be difficult. Below are some of the factors you should consider when making your decision:
availability
While most parts of the country have some way of accessing the internet from home, few ISPs are available in more than half of the country, which means you’ll likely need to choose one or a few ISPs available in your area. Start your search by identifying which ISPs are available to you.
speed
Depending on how you use the Internet, speed is often the most important factor other than availability. The connection speed you choose affects how you use the Internet and how much you pay. Useful Internet connection speeds range from around 5 Mbps to over 1,000 Mbps.
Slower internet speeds are fine for checking email and basic internet browsing. You need faster speeds for gaming, streaming video and transferring large files. Streaming statistics show that Americans spend an average of 3 hours and 9 minutes per day streaming digital media, so choosing an internet speed that meets these needs is important. The fastest speeds come over fiber optic networks and can reach up to 8,000 Mbps or 8 Gbps.
Fee
Costs are usually closely tied to connection speed and data availability. High-speed connections with unlimited monthly data and connections with higher data caps are more expensive than slower connections with less available data. Customers can reduce costs to some extent by purchasing slower connections with lower speeds. Some ISPs allow customers to purchase their own modem and router, eliminating the associated monthly rental costs.
Reliability
Choosing a reliable connection and provider can mean the difference between a useful connection and utter frustration. If you depend on having the internet available at all times, check local reviews or FCC reports on broadband reliability before signing up with an ISP.
bundle
Many ISPs are also telecommunications companies, which might offer cable television, cellular service, and landline telephones. Most of these providers allow consumers to take advantage of discounted pricing by bundling their Internet connection with one or more of these additional services.
Data cap
A data cap set by an ISP is the amount of data allowed on your connection plan. Once you reach and exceed your data cap, your ISP may throttle your connection. Throttling means significantly slowing down your connection speed. Many ISPs offer unlimited data, but very few offer true unlimited data with no speed limits. Some ISPs allow customers to purchase more data after they reach their limit to avoid slowing down their connection speed.
Connection Type
There are several types of internet connections available: 4G LTE, satellite, fixed wireless, DSL, 5G, cable, and fiber optic. Depending on your region and exact location, you may have one or more of these available. The type you choose will affect your overall connection speed and reliability. 4G LTE is a slower cellular connection that is available in many places, while fiber optic is faster but has limited availability.
contract
ISP contracts are declining in popularity. Many providers now offer month-to-month contracts, which may promise price discounts or other benefits for a period of time after you sign up for their service. However, some providers still require customers to sign a one- or two-year contract. Contracts are common in areas with fewer options for internet connectivity. If you must sign a contract, read and understand the details before you commit.
