If you've decided that it's time to start shopping for a new ISP, you'll be happy to know that your options have improved significantly, especially if you've been with your current ISP for years. The technology surrounding internet services has become cheaper and more readily available in recent times. This has led to better services at a lower cost. For your next ISP, there are several key factors that you should be on the lookout for.
Download and Upload Speeds
Many companies will attach attractive looking numbers to their adverts. However, the reality might be different, and the availability of certain speeds may be pegged on a variety of other factors. For most users, these two speeds are the most important feature of the service. Therefore, ensure that you compare what different internet service providers can offer you in terms of both.
Product/Service Bundling
Some ISPs offer other services in addition to internet connectivity. It's not unusual to find an ISP that also provides home phone services, satellite services or cable TV services. Many companies who offer these services will bundle them together, and this can be very cost effective for you. Check if any ISPs are offering an attractive offer that you can take advantage of.
Useful Add-Ons
There are many add-ons that an ISP might offer you to make their package seem more attractive. However, you should only concentrate on those you may really need. For example, with some ISPs, you can get free access to their Wi-Fi networks as long as you're near one of their hotspots. If you frequently use the internet outside your home, this feature can be very useful, as long as the ISP has plenty of hotspots around town.
Reliability
No features offered by your ISP will be of any use if you can't actually use them when you need to. Reliability has been a major problem for many ISPs in the past, with customers complaining of prolonged downtimes, lower speeds than promised, etc. Ensure your new ISP has a history of reliability.
Good Customer Service
Being able to reach a customer service representative that can actually assist you is very important. In case something goes wrong with your connection, you may have to wait for days before someone comes around to assist you. This is why some people recommend local ISPs. Find an ISP that provides good customer service and can be reached on a variety of platforms.
For more information, contact your local IT support service.
