How to Change Internet Service

In the early '90s, choosing an Internet service provider wasn't really a choice; there were only a handful available to most people. Now, there are more providers and more options than ever. When seeking to change providers, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure that the service you are switching to will handle your needs and be available in your area.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

How to Change Internet Service.

1. Determine what ties you have to your current provider of Internet service. Oftentimes, your email account is directly provided by your ISP (Internet Service Provider.) If this is the case, it is not a deal breaker, it just means that you will have to establish a new email account and alert your contacts of the switch.

2. Find out what contractual obligations you have with your current provider. ISPs can have you under a contract of varying lengths of service. If you are midway through a 2 year agreement, you may want to calculate the savings and benefits of your new service against the cost of prematurely ending or "breaking" your current contract.

3. Find an ISP that will service your area and provide the level of service you desire. The level of service depends on your intended use of the Internet service. The difference in service types can greatly affect the capabilities of your service with regard to uploading and downloading speed. Broadband service is generally the fastest of the widely offered services.

4. Schedule to have your new service connected BEFORE you cancel or disconnect your old service. This will eliminate any gaps in your service.

Tips & Warnings

• When choosing a new ISP provider, make sure to get a quote on the actual speed available in your area. There are ISPs that will publish their fastest speeds available and fail to disclose that more remote locations will not be able to achieve the advertised speed. Even in urban areas, you could be further away from the ISP's central hub.

References

• Techlicious
• DSL Reports