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Internet Plans – Tips to Choose One and Mistakes to Avoid

Internet Plans – Tips to Choose One and Mistakes to Avoid

Internet connectivity is the need of the hour for working professionals who operate from home, students, and generally anyone who wants to be online. So, getting a family plan is better if you install a new Internet connection at home. These plans cater to every individual’s needs and support multi-device streaming and seamless connections to work or study. This article discusses the best plans to choose, mistakes to avoid, and ways to boost your Internet connection.

Common mistakes to avoid while choosing Internet providers
Choosing an Internet service provider can be confusing at first, so here are a few basic mistakes you can avoid:

  • Choosing the wrong connection
    Avoid choosing a low-cost Internet provider simply because you get some free basic plans. You will end up with a low-speed connection that might not be sufficient for all household members. Compare plans to find affordable Internet services that work for everyone.
  • Getting confused with Internet types
    Fiber optic connections are the fastest and offer decent speeds for multiple users to connect and enjoy Internet services. However, some affordable plans may only be available with limited bandwidth. So, you must check and compare types of Internet connections, including DSL, cable, and fixed wireless.
  • Not reading the terms of the agreement
    If you are applying for special Internet discounts, consider the terms and conditions mentioned in the qualifying criteria. You don’t want to commit to anything long-term when many alternatives are available on the market.
  • Not getting the proper hardware
    You must invest in a decent modem and essential hardware for your home Internet to work seamlessly. Some government-sponsored Internet access benefits include the cost of these installations.
  • Not comparing all available offers
    You’ll have to do some research to check out the best home Internet options available and compare services, irrespective of the ACP benefit. Don’t miss out on promotions simply because you haven’t checked out the available alternatives.

Top 3 affordable home Internet services
Verizon, Cox Communications, and AT&T are among the top services providing affordable Internet offers with benefits sponsored by the government as well.

  • Verizon’s low-cost Internet for low-income families
    Verizon has partnered with the government to provide low-cost, affordable Internet services under its Lifeline Assistance Program. Suppose your income is less than or equal to 135% of the federal poverty guidelines. In that case, any household member receiving benefits under a qualifying federal assistance program can avail themselves of the discount. These primarily include Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefits, and other special tribal programs.The 300 Mbps plan is free, while the 500 Mbps plan costs only $24.99 per month after a discount. Users are also eligible for the gigabit connection under the low-cost scheme for a discounted price of $49.99 per month with speeds up to 940 Mbps. Average savings under the scheme start at $20 per month and vary depending on the plan chosen.
  • AT&T Home Internet Services
    AT&T is another Internet provider that partners with the government to provide low-cost Internet, sponsored under the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Given the low tariff rates for the service’s basic Internet plans, you can get free Internet access upon qualifying and applying the discount. Eligible households can get a minimum $35/month discount, up to even $75 for unique qualifying tribal lands. The basic 100 Mbps plan starts at $30/month, and no additional charge is levied for annual contract maintenance, installation, or Wi-Fi modules. With the ACP $30/month credit, you’ll virtually enjoy free Internet access upon qualification. The discounts are applicable even for high-speed Internet plans over 100 Mbps.
  • Cox Communications low-cost Internet
    Cox Communications offers a variety of low-cost Internet plans under the ACP program. Individual users can enjoy the ConnectAssist plan with speeds up to 100 Mbps, ideal for connecting up to five devices, including a free modem rental and no term agreement. While the plan starts at $30 per month, qualifying individuals under the ACP benefit can use the Internet connection for free upon receiving the monthly credit.Families can alternatively check out the Connect2Compete Internet plan, which also offers 100 Mbps speeds with all the perks and benefits of the individual plans. The plan is priced at $9.95/month, with ACP credit available for specific qualifying criteria. In addition, at least one K–12 students must receive schooling benefits under government-sponsored education programs.

6 easy steps to boost Wi-Fi connection
When you use affordable Internet plans with limited bandwidth and speed, the following tips and hacks will help boost your Internet speed significantly.

  • Restart the devices
    Sometimes, overheating of the devices can cause severe lag and latency issues. Restart the device or turn off the router for a few minutes to allow the device to cool down. The power-down and power-up cycles also boost Internet speed.
  • Shift the router or modem
    Wi-Fi speed can also be affected if there is a barrier behind or in front of the antennas. This disturbance causes the signal to bounce back and affect latency, causing the Internet to disconnect. Wireless routers need to be placed in a location where there is no interference.
  • Revise the frequency
    If multiple users are logged in, increasing the frequency band is better. Wi-fi routers operate on two radio frequency bands, mainly 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Switching the frequency will shift your device to better bandwidth and ensure seamless connectivity.
  • Use a Wi-Fi extender or booster
    Range extenders and signal boosters can easily enhance your existing low-bandwidth Wi-Fi connection for a bare minimum cost. To enable a direct connection, you can even switch to a dedicated Ethernet port connection for desktops.
  • Disconnect unnecessary devices
    Sometimes you’ll forget about that iPad or spare phone that’s still connected to the Wi-Fi network but not being used actively. Disconnect unused devices so the network is only used for active connections. This will help improve speed even on limited bandwidth.
  • Update the interface
    Device updates can also affect the Wi-Fi connection because manufacturers keep releasing new software updates. You must download the latest firmware for the routers and modem to ensure the connection is stable.

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