Imagine you’re about to reach the climax of a thriller movie and suddenly, it starts buffering. Frustrating, right? If your internet connection keeps throttling, it might be the time to say goodbye to it.
In this article, I will explain some telltale signs that indicate it’s better to switch to a new Internet Service Provider rather than stick with your current one. Let’s get started:
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Constant Slow Speeds
I believe sometimes our internet connections do get slow, especially during peak hours. Some ISPs may not be able to cater to the network traffic, and it’s a major reason why our internet speeds dip during peak hours.
However, if this happens more frequently, and even during the off-peak hours, then it might be a sign to switch to another ISP. Also, it’s a good idea to run internet speed checks to know what speeds you’re getting from your ISP. If your internet speed is always slower than what you pay for, then it’s a sign to change your ISP.
Frequent Outages
Occasional internet outages are normal and it’s understandable that our internet might not be available sometimes. However, it’s time to switch to another ISP if you’re frequently resetting your router to find connectivity or calling your ISP’s support every day to know the internet connectivity’s ETA.
Apart from natural disasters, i.e., storms, earthquakes, or some major technical issues on the ISP’s side, internet outages shouldn’t last long. However, if you’re frequently facing an internet blackout, then your ISP may be throttling your internet to cater to network traffic. If that is the case with your ISP, then better switch to another ISP.
High-Cost Plans with Data Caps
I believe it’s unfair when ISPs impose data caps on high-end plans because even after paying handsomely to ISPs, users may not be able to use the internet with a free mind. They may always feel as if a sword of data cap is hanging above their heads.
I would suggest you review your recent internet bill and compare your chosen plan with other ISPs offering their services in your zip code. This way, you may get an idea of what other people are paying for similar speeds or if they have data caps or not. For example, Optimum is a widely available provider, and Optimum Internet plans have no data caps.
Lack of Perks and Benefits
Today, most ISPs offer a lot of perks and benefits to their customers. And, if your ISP is only offering you an average internet connection for the price you pay, then you may want to switch to another ISP. While seeking out services of another ISP, look out for:
- A WiFi Security Setup
- Parental Controls
- Free Internet Equipment
- No Data Caps and Termination fee
- Discounts and Promotions
Also, you may not find all the above features in a single ISP. So, you may choose an ISP that offers the maximum perks and benefits you’re most interested in.
Poor Customer Support
Unreliable customer support on top of a spotty internet connection is a nightmare for most people. Usually, we head out to customer support to seek help when our internet is down or when we have to deal with constant slow speeds. And, if our customer support is as clueless as we are in that situation, then what’s the point of paying the ISP?
I’d suggest you part ways with your ISP if their customer support is not reliable and swift. Simply because as their customer, it’s your ISP’s responsibility to provide you a staunch customer support.
Bonus Section: How to Research the Available Internet Service Providers
Research the Available Providers: The first task at hand is to know which providers are offering their services in your locality. You may also want to know the type of connection they offer since the type of connection can greatly affect your internet speed and cost.
Compare their plans and prices: Compare their plans and prices and analyze the difference between their prices. As I told you above, prices and speeds may vary on the internet connection type. However, consider the speeds you want from a connection and see which providers offer you those speeds at the minimum costs.
Make sure you get top customer service: Do not forget that for any ISP you choose, you must get reliable customer support that’ll be at your heels to help you out in times of need. To know how responsive customer support is, you can dial the shortlisted ISP’s customer support numbers and inquire about their plans. This way, you may get an idea of how reliable and swift their customer services are. Also, you can read reviews on Reddit as people post their unfiltered experiences on the platform.
Make sure they offer advanced features without any additional cost: Look out for the additional perks you’d get after signing up with an ISP. As I mentioned above, getting every perk out there may not be possible. So, your approach should be to consider the perks that you want the most.
