How to choose the best internet service?

The Internet seems to be everywhere, but choosing the best internet service is a cheery venture. You need to determine local availability and have the right fit for speed and delivery method. You may have multiple providers, plans and contracts to compare.

These steps can help you choose the right internet service.

1. What speed do you need?

First, understand Internet speed or - more accurately - bandwidth, so that you can select the appropriate level of service.

Bandwidth, usually measured in megabits per second, is the maximum rate at which you can download data from the Internet to your computer. The more data-intensive activities you typically do, and the more devices you have on the same connection, the more bandwidth you need.

More: How to Determine the Speed ​​You Need for the Internet

This chart gives you an idea of ​​the bandwidth needed to perform normal internet operations, umming one user at a time. Since your total bandwidth is shared between all connected devices, you need enough to perform operations at once.

2. What are the options in your area?

If you know what Internet speeds are needed, you can check websites such as Broadband Now and My Area to find out which providers serve your area.

NerdWallet has nothing to do with these sites and they can make money when you click on their recommendations. However, they do provide a snapshot of local Internet service providers. They may not show every option available, so additional research can help.

In most metro areas, you have the option of Internet service through a cable provider, phone company or satellite company - and possibly through a fiber optic service. In a more rural area, you may not have access to such methods, although you may be covered by a satellite broadband provider.

3. What are the pros and cons of these options?

There is a more detailed description of each of these Internet delivery methods.

For an instant hit: The Internet service from your cable provider offers much faster and more reliable speeds, though it comes with an expensive price tag. Internet from a phone company on digital subscriber lines, called DSL, is cheaper than cable, but at the same time slower. Satellite Internet has wide availability but can be expensive and slow.

Fiber optic internet delivery is reliable and very fast, but it is the most common method.

Depending on availability, you should choose a service that fits your budget while delivering the bandwidth you want.

4. How can you find an organization and package that suits your style?

Now that you know what you're looking for, you'll need to sift through various packages and offerings.

Your options can vary greatly depending on your location. It is difficult to give general advice on this step, but here are some important points:

Bundle
Many cable companies offer bundles of different combinations of phone, internet and television service. Think seriously before signing up for these wholesale deals; Companies often try to harass and lock customers with more services.

Do You Really Need a Landline? Can you get streaming television from your new internet service instead of your entire internet package? Bundling services may make sense in some cases, but weigh the cost and value before making a decision.

Usually beware of exceptions: know what you really want before you sign up, and don't write the test until you do your research on the "deal".

Publicity
Often you can get promoted to attract first time customers, internet service for $ 50 per month instead of $ 30 per year. You can get good prices with these types of deals, but make sure you are ready to pay full price or cancel your service at the end of the promotional period.