Switching internet service providers is pretty tough. You have to go through the cancellation fees, new connection setup time, and extra costs. But if you’re willing to go with it, knowing how to switch internet providers will make the process a lot easier.
Understand what you need from the internet connection, check the terms and conditions, and call in to cancel your current package. You also need to return the equipment to your previous Internet service provider (ISP) and pay early termination fees (ETF), depending on the contract. Then choose another ISP and call them to make an appointment for getting a new connection.
New and improved internet technologies are on the rise all the time, and new ISPs are popping up every so often. The internet plans you were content with yesterday might not look lucrative today.
Basics of Cancelling Internet Services
Before you can switch your internet service provider, or ISP for short, you need to cancel the current internet plans. The general process can be broken down into the following steps:
- Check the terms and conditions to ensure any hidden cancellation fees are associated. It will save you a lot of hassle afterward.
- If you can cancel your current plan through the online service, do so by logging into their service.
- If online cancellation is not an option, you might want to contact them directly.
- If they’re like most of the ISPs around, there should be a retention agent who’ll try to convince you to stay in their service. They might offer you new and improved plans at a lower cost. But if you’re determined that this service is not working for you, just let them know.
- Once you’re done with the cancellation, a team will come to your house to collect the networking equipment.
Termination Fees and Returning the Equipment
Before you sign a contract with your current ISP, there is a good chance that they have included clauses for early termination fees. This is also known as ETF.
ETF applies for you to pay extra fees for ending the contract before the end. An ETF can cost a significant amount of money. Sometimes, the prices are so high that you might want to keep your existing ISP only for that reason.
Many ISPs and cable providers would want to keep you as their customers. So they might lessen the charge and make the service a bit better. If getting a better service is what you’re after, the negotiation might bring you better deals.
Most ISPs will rent cables and other internet equipment for an extra fee added to the service charge. When you decide to leave their service, you have to give those back, or they might charge you a significant amount for keeping them. Moreover, keeping the equipment won’t help you. They might not work with the new ISP anyways!
How to Switch Internet Providers? step by step..
The following steps will let you through the process of changing the ISP as seamlessly and without pain as possible.
Step 1: Understand your Needs
Before jumping onto the new ISP bandwagon, ask yourself why you are unsatisfied with your current service. Do they charge you way more than the competition? Does their service fluctuate a lot during the peak hour? Are you looking for faster internet at a lower cost?
You should know the broadband speed you want in your household and how much bandwidth you need per month.
Step 2: Measure the Costs
When you cancel earlier than your contract ends, you will be charged a hefty ETF fee. Make sure you have enough reason and money before calling in the cancellation. If your primary focus is to save money, the ETF fees won’t do you any justice.
Step 3: Return the Equipment
Different ISPs use different equipment for connection. So, paying a hefty fee for keeping the equipment from the previous ISP won’t do you any good. Moreover, very few ISPs will consider using your old equipment for a new connection. So, the best decision is to return the networking equipment. This includes the networking cable too. Otherwise, they’ll add an even more hefty charge on top of the ETF.
Step 4: Pick up the Next ISP
If you’re changing your current ISP, you must have a clear idea about what you want and don’t want from your next ISP. Here are some factors that will help you make the decision.
Speed
If you’re not satisfied with your current broadband speed, faster broadband with better bandwidth will solve most issues.
Availability
Availability is an essential factor while choosing the next ISP. Many broadband services offer perfect internet. But that won’t matter if they don’t have coverage in your area. Look for all the available ISPs in your area and compare them according to your choice.
Costing
Many ISPs will offer you lower prices when you sign up for their service. They will eventually ramp up their pricing after the introductory period has ended. Don’t forget to check their terms and conditions thoroughly for details.
Reliability
Reliability comes with extended usage. So it’s hard to figure this out when you’re just starting. You can ask your friends, and there are multiple forums where you can ask about the reliability of the ISP. Be sure to compare some of the prominent ISPs to get a clearer picture.
Customer Service
Customer service is essential for emergencies when your internet is down, or you need assistance. Getting a good ISP with exemplary customer service will save you from a lot of hassle.
Step 5: Call to Fix up an Installation Date with the New ISP
Go ahead and call the new ISP to get an installation date. It might take them a while to install the new internet service. This can be anywhere from a few days up to a week.
Final Words
Changing your current ISP might not be the best choice of action for many people, as most of them offer decent service already. But if you need to get a better connection, your current ISP might just not be cutting it. Knowing how to switch internet service providers will make the process a lot more seamless.
Go through their terms and conditions before you call in and end the current contract with the current service provider. There may be hidden charges and cancellation policies you were not aware of before you made the decision. It’s always better safe than sorry!
