Here’s what you can expect when you’re ready to cut the cord from Big Cable.
Times are changing. More people than ever are doing something about cable providers who offer high prices, a lousy customer experience, and bandwidth that can’t handle today’s heavily connected lifestyle. They’re switching to fiber optic Internet providers.
It’s easy to understand why people want to make the switch. They want faster Internet, better customer service, and the ability to choose the programming they want – not packages of channels selected by the cable company.
Some people may still be on the fence about leaving cable. We get it! Change is hard. Many people stick with a cable provider that they’re unhappy with simply because they don’t know what to expect when they switch. Will they still be able to get their local channels and watch sports? What about their favorite streaming services?
This article will give you a guided tour about what you can expect when you switch to a fiber Internet provider.
Getting Started With Fiber Internet.
First, you need to determine if there’s a fiber optic Internet provider where you live. Broadbandnow can help you determine providers and speeds in your area. (Of course, we also offer a handy location finder – just click on “Check Availability” or “Check my area” anywhere on our website.)
When it comes to installation, it really depends on the provider you’re choosing. GoNetspeed has a two- part process.
The first part takes place at the neighborhood level. Our team begins to mark utilities and potential construction landmarks to avoid any interruptions to the utilities in the area. Then we distribute fiber cable from one of our hubs in your town to a localized cabinet in the neighborhood. Fiber is then extended on utility poles to your home.
After a utility check, we activate (also known as “lighting up”) the fiber, which means the fiber is ready to bring the Internet to you.
The second part of installation begins in your home. We will require an adult to be present and this should also take 1-2 hours. Your home will be equipped with an optical network terminal (ONT), which acts as a modem to bring fiber Internet to your house. You will also receive a free router which allows you to connect all your devices.
You’re connected. Now what?
At this point, all you need to do is connect your devices to the Internet. If you’ve purchased a TV in the last few years, it’s likely to be a Smart TV. This means it may already be equipped with what you need for Internet access. It may come preloaded with popular apps, or you can download apps. Even HD content will stream at superfast speeds with your new fiber connection.
If you don’t have a Smart TV, you can hook in your favorite device like an Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, PS5, or Xbox to begin streaming. You can also stream to your computer or mobile device using Wi-Fi.
The great advantage of fiber Internet is that you can upload and download data at the same speed, which allows you to have crystal clear video conversations and streaming experiences.
Yes, sports and live TV are also available with fiber Internet.
If you’re a local news junkie, fiber has you covered. YouTubeTV and Hulu+ offer competitively priced (cheaper than cable) live TV packages that will deliver all the local and cable TV channels and sports. There are even some DVR functions available. Don’t forget! You also can watch the news from your local TV station’s website as well – with fiber Internet, you won’t see any buffering or lagging.
Sports fans can subscribe to ESPN+ to get live sports coverage and games that ESPN covers, and some leagues even have their own streaming packages like MLB.TV, NFL Sunday Ticket, and NBA TV. Apple TV and Peacock (NBC) have also begun streaming live sports on their platforms as well.
You get more for your money with fiber Internet.
The main point: The best thing you’ll discover when you switch to fiber Internet is that you get more for your money, without giving up anything you’re already watching. That’s because instead of spending on channels you never watch, you’ll be able to target your budget more effectively and only subscribe to what you like.
Ready for lightning-fast streaming? Check your address or get in touch with our super-smart, super-friendly Customer Service team anytime toll-free at 855-891-7291.