When you use the internet for school, remote work, or just to unwind, it’s important to know how to choose internet providers (ISPs). After all, they differ when it comes to rates, speeds, and reliability. Whichever provider you choose, make sure they can meet your needs.
When it comes to choosing ISPs, consider key factors like:
- Coverage in your area
- Speed requirements to keep up with your online activities
- Installation fees and equipment costs
- Types of internet available at your address
Since the internet is so important in your daily life, there’s plenty to consider to make the right decision. With a little know-how, choosing an ISP can be a straightforward process.
What to consider when choosing an internet provider
To get the best deal on an internet plan and the most reliable service, pay attention to availability in your area. First, check which ISPs offer internet service in your neighborhood.
If you’re looking for internet in rural areas, you may have limited options compared to living in a big city due to available infrastructure and technology. Whichever options are available, take your time to make the right choice.
Beyond availability, there are several other factors to consider.
Speed requirements based on your household’s usage
The internet speed you need depends on how many people are in your household, how many devices are connected, and what types of activities you do.
Generally, 100 megabits per second (Mbps) is a good baseline that lets you connect several devices and download and upload large files relatively quickly.
If you have a larger household, lots of devices, or stream a lot, increase your speed tier for more bandwidth. You might need 300 Mbps or more to meet your household’s needs.
Pricing and your budget
Plan pricing and your budget are key factors to consider when choosing the best internet package. Think about your internet use (light, moderate, heavy), and how many devices you connect to choose the right plan.
While price matters, don’t sacrifice quality for the lowest price.
Data caps and unlimited plans
A data cap limits how much data you can use in a billing period (usually a month). If you go over your limit, your provider may charge extra or reduce your speed.
If you use the internet regularly—especially for streaming, browsing social media, and gaming—you’ll want a plan that doesn’t charge you data overages.
Bundled services
Sometimes, it pays to ask more than “How do I choose an internet provider?” Instead of using different providers for your various digital services, try bundling from a single provider.
Often, providers offer discounts when you sign up for packages that include home internet and wireless plans.
Equipment and installation fees
The equipment you need for your home network depends on your connection. For fiber internet, a technician may need to run or replace cables in your home. Then you’ll need a Wi-Fi gateway to transmit the signal throughout your home.
Installation costs can vary based on the type of installation required for your internet service.
Wireless broadband and AT&T Internet Air are easier, self-install setups that don’t require special tools or knowledge.
For wireless broadband, you’ll need a compatible mobile hotspot device or router. For Internet Air, you’ll need a 5G gateway.
Customer service and reliability ratings
Choose an internet service provider with a consistent track record of quality service in your area. You’ll also want access to reliable customer service if something goes wrong—AT&T offers round-the-clock support.
While there are plenty of considerations at work when it comes to choosing the right internet provider, it’s worth it to find the best fit. It’s also important to understand the different types of internet available to you.
Types of internet connections offered
Beyond checking which ISPs are available in your area, research what types of internet connections they offer. Generally, providers offer a few common options.
Fiber internet is one of the fastest options and, if it’s available in your area, a great bet for a fast connection. Check the fiber internet availability coverage map to see if you can get fiber at your home.
Choose wireless broadband if fiber isn’t available in your area. It uses a wireless network and router to deliver internet speeds that vary by location.
AT&T Internet Air is wireless home internet delivered over the reliable AT&T 5G network offering unlimited data and is available in many areas.1 2
No matter which type of internet you choose, make sure you pick a provider you can count on.
Why AT&T may be the right internet provider for you
If we’re in your area, you don’t need to look any further. AT&T boasts the nation’s largest wireless network with fast speeds and reliable connectivity.3
For example, AT&T Fiber delivers speeds of up to 5 GIG.4 These ultra-fast speeds let you download 4K movies quickly, play games in high-def, and more.
Plus, weather and other environmental factors affect fiber internet less, resulting in fewer service interruptions.
On top of these benefits of fiber internet, there’s no need to sign an annual contract, so you can cancel anytime if it’s not for you.
If you have an array of smart home devices, fast internet is essential to keep them working in tandem. AT&T Fiber delivers reliable connectivity to keep your fridge, your doorbell, and everything in between connected and working.
With the right internet provider, you can complete your day-to-day activities with ease instead of disruptions.
Trust AT&T for your internet needs
Choosing the best internet provider may feel overwhelming. But if you consider coverage, the speed you need, device support, and more, you can find the right fit.
And when you’re ready for a fast, reliable internet connection with responsive support, reach out to us to find the best internet plan for your needs and budget.
We offer a variety of plans to let you know you’ve picked the right provider.
1In rare cases, if your usage is contributing to congestion on the network, AT&T will greatly reduce your speed for a min of 30 mins.
25G coverage not available everywhere. Learn more at att.com/5Gforyou.
3Compares ground-based cellular networks.
4Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5-Gig single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info., visit att.com/speed101.
