By , Kim Komando
Published February 15, 2020
Since you signed up for your internet service, you probably haven't given it much thought. It works, so why bother? But a new plan might better suit your needs and save money, too.
Speed is also important, of course, and there's a chance your plan isn't to blame. Tap or click here for a quick insider trick that involves changing one setting for significantly faster internet speeds.
When your internet slows down, it could be your line, your device, your router, your browser or even your neighbors. I’ve got you covered with the steps to take to figure it out. Tap or click here for 10 ways to fix your home Wi-Fi problems.
If it is your plan, how do you navigate the many internet options? Here’s a quick crash course.
The first step to selecting the right plan is understanding your needs. Here’s a good place to start:
Remember, there are data caps. Most companies put a limit on the amount of data you can use each month and if you go over that amount, you’ll be charged extra fees. Tap or click here to learn how to avoid hitting your internet data cap while you’re streaming.
Now that you know what to look for in a plan, let’s see what your options are.
For home internet service you’re going to choose between DSL, cable, fiber or satellite. Here’s what that means:
Since DSL and cable internet services are the most common, we’ll focus on those. Two of the major providers in the U.S. are Xfinity from Comcast and Cox Communications.
For DSL, I’ll also show you options from CenturyLink. Service providers and specific offerings vary depending on where you live, so the packages you see here may be slightly different than those offered at posting.
Take a look at the plans offered and compare these to your own. Be sure to read the tip at the end about testing your speed to make sure you’re getting what you’re paying for.
Xfinity from Comcast
Xfinity offers a few different plans:
Cox Communications
Cox Communications offers a wide range of plans with speeds from 10Mbps all the way up to 940Mbps. Here are the most common offerings:
CenturyLink
CenturyLink, a DSL internet service provider, is pushing its “Price for Life” offer. That means if you sign up for internet service, you can guarantee the same monthly rate year after year as long as you don’t cancel.
At the moment, you can get up to 100Mbps for $49/month. Unfortunately, this special promotion isn't available in every area of the U.S. The top speeds available depend on your location.
Once you choose a provider and a plan, make sure you’re getting what you pay for. If you’re paying for download speeds of 100Mbps, but only getting around 50Mbps, you need to notify your provider.
You can find out with a simple speed test right through Google. Just use the search phrase “Speed Test.” If you’d rather use a site designed to test speeds, tap or click here for 4 sites to check your internet speed for free.
Remember, competition is fierce. If you live in an area with more than one internet service provider, see which one can give you the best deal. Call each provider’s customer service line and ask for their best and lowest price. And pay close attention to contract lengths, setup fees and such to make sure you aren’t paying more than you think.
What digital lifestyle questions do you have? Call Kim's national radio show and tap or click here to find it on your local radio station. You can listen to or watch The Kim Komando Show on your phone, tablet, television or computer. Or tap or click here for Kim's free podcasts.
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Learn about all the latest technology on the Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website at Komando.com.
https://www.foxnews.com/tech/best-internet-deals-to-save-money-and-maximize-speed