Compare Internet Providers and their Packages
Before you do anything, the first thing that you should be doing is to
compare internet providers, so that you can work out what is the best option for you. What is available to you depends on where you live, so doing an online comparison can help you work out what would be the best type of internet service for your budget.
Ordering your Internet Plan
Once you have chosen your plan, you will then need to place an order with the service provider. This can be done in three ways:
- Order on the phone: This is the most common way that people purchase internet. Call up the number provided on the provider’s website and speak to a sales agent, who will help to confirm that your deal is available where you live. You will then be sent an email with a contract to read through and sign.
- Order online: Ordering your internet online is becoming more popular, however, it is not implemented in the same way by all companies. Although you can fully make your order from some providers online, some of them will require you to have a phone call with a sales agent before they can complete your order.
- Order in person: If the provider you are planning to choose happens to have a shop nearby, then you can go into the store and order face-to-face with a sales agent. They can help clarify any questions you may have, as well as providing you with the router on the spot, so you don’t have to wait for it to arrive in the post.
Professional Internet Installation
You can usually choose whether you want a technician to visit your house and set up your internet for you, or whether you wish to install it yourself. Most people choose to have their internet installed professionally, which is great because you don’t have to worry about setting it up wrong yourself.
Make sure that the area where you wish to have the router is clear of large furniture and obstacles so that you make sure that it will provide the fastest speeds possible.
How to Set Up Internet on your Own
If you choose to self-install your internet, you will normally be sent a self-install kit. This usually includes your router, modem, Ethernet cables and coaxial cables, as well as a set of instructions. If your home has had internet before, it’s usually a simple process – all you have to do is plug in all of the cables correctly.
If you run into any trouble then you can always call the tech support team, who will be able to offer you assistance throughout the process of setting up the internet.
You can also install your internet using your own equipment. To do this you will have to:
- Connect the modem to the phone jack or coaxial.
- Turn on the modem ensuring the power cord is plugged in.
- Connect the modem and router using an Ethernet cable.
- Turn on the router and ensuring that it is plugged in.
- Call the tech support service of your internet provider, passing on your MAC address so that they can identify you and turn on your service.
Testing your Internet Connection
Most internet service providers offer guarantees of 15 days after purchase, when you can back out of your contract without any penalty fees. This means that it is important to test your internet speeds often during this period, so that you know if you are getting the speeds that were advertised and that you are happy with the service.
It is worth remembering however, that you should always test your speeds when connected to the router via Ethernet, as WiFi signals are almost always slower.
