How to Choose an Internet Connection
Choosing an Internet connection today is much more complicated than it was when the Internet first came out. There were only a few providers back then with the same basic speed. Now you have many providers with many different kinds of speeds and connections. Look at the price of DSL, cable and wireless, and then choose one that is suited for your Internet activities.
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Instructions
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Decide what connection speed will serve your purposes. If it is for the family and there will be online chat, videos being watched and games being played, then you will want a much faster speed with DSL or cable. For more basic things, like reading the news and listening to music, then a slower speed will be just fine.
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Figure out the price range you want to pay. Most high-speed providers will charge a monthly fee for unlimited use. Some of the slower providers will charge a lower fee but with limits on how much time can be spent connected to the Internet each month.
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Pick the kind of connection you will need as far as wireless, phone line or cable. Some areas may have more limited options. If you use a laptop or have multiple computers in the house that will be connecting to the Internet, you will probably want a wireless connection.
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Find a provider once you know what you are looking for. Many communication and cable companies provide an Internet service. If you decide to go with a slower speed, there are many big and small companies to choose from. Shop online at the library or someone else's house, or use the business pages of the phone book.
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Compare the start up costs. Buying the router or other necessary equipment yourself can bring the costs down. If the competition is high, many times you can get everything hooked up and started for free.
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Use the Internet as much as you can the first month after hook up to make sure everything is working properly and that you purchased the right speed. Notify the company immediately if something is not working or if you want to change the speed. Usually they will work with you if they think they will lose you.
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Tips & Warnings
DSL and cable routers are usually less expensive than wireless and renting from the communication company may help make it even more affordable.
Many high-speed cable and DSL providers have a range of connection speeds and prices. Start with a slower speed to save money if you have the option of upgrading as needed later.
