How to Change ISPS
Changing Internet service providers can be a daunting task. In some cases, you could be disconnected from the Internet for days or weeks. For home users, having no Internet connection is very inconvenient. For business users, it can result in lost profits. It is possible to overlap services so that you have two Internet connections at one time. If you know how to set up your Internet connections manually, you may be able to change services without becoming disconnected.
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Instructions
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Research providers to see who has the best services for the best price. Look at the speed of the service and any other features that are included.
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Contact the new provider to see if the service you want is available in your area. Speak with a customer service representative to set up service that meets your needs.
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Gather the configuration information from your old provider. Ensure that you have the dial-up number, your user name and password.
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Uninstall any software that your old service provider gave you. Manually reconfigure your old connection, if necessary. In Control Panel, click "Network and Internet Connections." Select "Set up or change your Internet connection." Under the "Connections" tab, select "Add." Go through the steps to set up your dial-up or broadband connection. Click "Finish." Type any dial-up numbers in the field, along with your user name and password.
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Install any hardware, such as the modem, router and Ethernet cables, that you will need for your new Internet connection. Ensure that everything is properly connected before you continue.
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Get the configuration information for your new provider. Under "Connections," click "Add" again. Enter the phone number, user name and password you will use to connect to the new provider, if any. Open your email program and add your new email addresses and passwords, along with the new provider's POP and SMTP addresses. Contact the new service provider for assistance if you have problems setting up your connection manually.
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Contact your old provider to cancel service when your new connection is operating well. Install any software that came with your new service, if desired.
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Tips & Warnings
In some cases, you may not be able to set up your new service before disconnecting the old one. For example, you may have to disconnect your old DSL service before setting up a new DSL connection. Contact both service providers for instructions on how to facilitate the change with minimal downtime. When you switch providers, you may be able to keep your old email address.
