First-Time Internet Buyer’s Guide

There’s a lot to consider if you’re moving into your first apartment or to a new home. Buying your first internet service shouldn’t be overwhelming. Use this first-time internet buyer’s guide to understand what to look for in an internet plan and how to calculate your monthly cost.

Key Insights: First Time Internet Buyers

• Start with availability: Run a ZIP code check to see if fiber, cable, fixed wireless, 5G home internet, DSL, or satellite are available in your area.
• Price after promo: Get the intro and post-promo rates in writing, plus equipment, install, and ETF details.
• Speed baseline: Aim for 100/20 Mbps; scale to 300–500 Mbps for 4K + calls; 500 Mbps–1 Gbps+ for heavy use and content creators.
• Upload & latency matter: For video calls, gaming, cloud backups, prioritize upload speed and low latency, not just download.
• Data policy: Know if your plan is unlimited, soft-capped (deprioritization), or capped with overage fees.
• Install & gear: Confirm self-install vs. pro, total one-time fees, and whether the gateway/router is included or $10–$15/mo.
• Fixed wireless & 5G home internet: Quick setup and unlimited, but performance varies by signal and tower load; check address-specific estimates and return window.
• Satellite (LEO vs. GEO): Expect priority data and post-allowance slowdowns; LEO latency is far lower than GEO for real-time tasks.

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What Are the Different Internet Options?

The current internet options in the U.S. are fiber, cable, DSL, satellite, fixed wireless, and 5G home internet. Not every option is available everywhere, so start with a ZIP code search to see what services are available in your area. The best choice depends on your household: light browsing, multi-4K streaming, gaming, or creator-level uploads. Choosing the right internet service comes down to your lifestyle and internet needs.

Fiber Internet

What it is: Internet delivered over glass fiber lines to an optical network terminal (ONT) in your home. The big draw is fast, symmetrical speeds—uploads are usually as fast as downloads.

Typical experience (varies by provider and plan):

• Download and Upload Speeds: 300 Mbps to multi-gig, often symmetrical.
• Latency: Usually very low, 10–20 ms or better.
• Data policy: Commonly unlimited.
• Install: Technician visit; providers estimate 4–6 hours for new fiber drops and ONT placement.

Best for: Power users, working remotely and video conferencing, large uploads, content creators, cloud backups, low-latency gamers, and multi-user households.

Watch-outs:

• Availability is still address-by-address; verify actual upload at checkout.
• Multi-gig tiers may require newer gateways, routers, and wired connections to achieve full speeds.

Ask before you order:

• What download and upload speed tiers are truly available at my address?
• Is equipment (gateway or ONT) included? Any mesh Wi-Fi options or fees?
• Install window and any construction charges if new drops are needed?

• Fiber & DSL provider
• WiFi router included
• Unlimited data included

Check Availability

Cable Internet

What it is: Broadband internet over the cable TV network (coax). Downloads are fast nearly everywhere; uploads are improving in many markets with mid-split and DOCSIS upgrades.

Typical experience (varies by market/plan):

• Download and Upload Speeds: 100 Mbps–1–2 Gbps down; uploads commonly 10–35 Mbps, but 75–200 Mbps in upgraded “enhanced” areas.
• Latency: Generally 20–40 ms in national testing (FCC 2024).
• Data policy: Often unlimited; some regions use caps or unlimited data add-ons.
• Install: Self-install is common; pro installs are available and may have a fee.

Best for: Most households that stream, game, and work from home, especially where fiber isn’t available, and those looking to bundle cable TV.

Watch-outs:

• Upload speeds and data policies vary by market; don’t assume symmetry.
• Gateway rental is often around $15/mo, unless you use your compatible modem.

Ask before you order:

• Exact upload at my address and whether my area has mid-split upgrades.
• Is there a data cap or an unlimited option?
• Self-install eligibility vs. pro-install fee and earliest slot.

• Same-day installations
• 8+ million free WiFi hotspots
• Unlimited data available

Check Availability

DSL Internet

What it is: Internet over copper telephone lines. It’s widely legacy now, with speeds that drop over distance from the provider’s central office or hub.

Typical experience (address-dependent):

• Download and Upload Speeds: Often 5–100 Mbps download, single-digit to teens upload on many lines. Range varies by distance from the provider hub.
• Latency: Higher than fiber/cable; national testing shows DSL latencies above cable/fiber. Federal Communications Commission (August 2024)
• Data policy: Usually unlimited; verify with your provider.
• Install: Self-install is common when jacks are present; pro visit may be required for line issues.

Best for: Light users or addresses with no fiber, cable, or fixed-wireless access; basic browsing, email, SD/HD streaming on 1-2 devices.

Watch-outs:

• Performance distance-sensitive: the farther you are from the provider’s central office or node, the slower it will be. “Up to” speeds may not match real-world results.
• Upload limitations can impact video calls and cloud backups.

Ask before you order:

• The (not just “up to”) download and upload speeds at my address?
• Any inside wiring issues that would require a truck roll or fee?
• Is a migration path to fiber or fixed wireless available soon?

• Simplified pricing
• Unlimited data included
• No annual contract required

Check Availability

Satellite Internet

What it is: Broadband internet transmitted via satellites. There are two types available to consumers:

• LEO (Low-Earth Orbit): shorter distance, much lower latency (e.g., Starlink).
• GEO (Geostationary): Very high orbit, widely available, higher latency (HughesNet and Viasat).

Typical experience (varies by plan/sky view):

• Download and Upload Speeds: LEO: 45–280 Mbps download and 10–30 Mbps upload. GEO: 25–100 Mbps download and 3–20 Mbps upload, depending on the plan and the network.
• Latency: LEO: 25–60 ms. GEO: 600 ms average.
• Data policy: Starlink markets unlimited with possible deprioritization; GEO providers use priority data with slowed speeds after the allowance.
• Install: Starlink is self-install (roof or pole mount options); GEO generally requires a professional installation.

Best for: Rural or remote internet options without access to fiber, cable, or fixed wireless. LEO is notably better for real-time tasks (video conferencing) than traditional GEO due to latency.

Watch-outs:

• Clear sky view matters; obstructions reduce performance.
• Weather can impact reliability more than terrestrial options.
• Hardware costs, installation, and mounting accessories can add up; check promos.

Ask before you order:

• Expected down/up and latency for my location (LEO vs. GEO)?
• What happens after my priority data is used (throttling/deprioritization)?
• Total equipment and installation costs, and the return window.

• Fast satellite internet
• Ideal for rural areas
• Up to 3x faster than DSL*

Check Availability

Fixed Wireless Internet

What it is: Home internet delivered wirelessly from a nearby cell or fixed radio tower to a receiver/gateway in your home—no coax or fiber line required. It’s considered a fixed (not mobile) connection because the gateway stays at your address.

Typical experience (varies by address):

• Download and Upload Speeds: Often 100–400+ Mbps download and 10–50+ Mbps upload in strong-signal areas. Performance fluctuates with signal quality and tower congestion.
• Latency: Commonly 16–60 ms; fine for video calls and most gaming, but can spike during busy hours.
• Data policy: Usually unlimited, but deprioritization may apply after heavy use (speeds can slow during congestion).
• Install: Self-install the gateway; placement by a window or exterior wall helps signal. Typical setup is quick.

Best for: Renters and first-time buyers who want easy setup, no contracts in many areas, and solid everyday speeds, especially where fiber isn’t available.

Watch-outs:

• Performance can vary by time of day, weather, and obstructions.
• Some promos require autopay and paperless billing; confirm the price after promos end and any gateway fees.
• If you work with large uploads (creators, frequent cloud backups), confirm upload speeds at your exact address.

Ask before you order:

• Expected down/up at my address? What’s the typical range?
• Any thresholds for deprioritization or network management?
• Return window if the signal isn’t strong enough in my home?
• Self-install only, or is professional installation offered, and at what cost?

• Fast speeds in rural areas
• Affordable prices
• Quick installations

5G Home Internet

What it is: A type of fixed wireless that uses 5G (and sometimes LTE) for last-mile access. Providers ship an all-in-one gateway; plug it in, place it for the best signal, and you’re online.

Typical experience (varies by address):

• T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: 134–415 Mbps download and 12–55 Mbps upload; latency 16–28 ms. Self-install is advertised at 15 minutes. Plans may be subject to network management after heavy use.
• Verizon 5G Home Internet: Up to 300 Mbps download (higher in select areas) and 10–20 Mbps upload, depending on the spectrum at your address. Self- and professional installation are supported.

Best for: Most households that stream, video chat, and game casually; renters and anyone who wants a quick setup, competitive pricing, and no annual contract. Creators or heavy uploaders should verify upload speed at their exact address.

Watch-outs:

• Speeds vary with signal quality and tower load; some addresses may fall back to LTE performance—always check the address-specific estimate.
• Unlimited typically means no overage fees, but network management/deprioritization can slow speeds during congestion, especially after very heavy monthly usage.

Ask before you order:

• What download and upload speed does my address typically see, and is LTE fallback likely?
• Any deprioritization thresholds or video-resolution policies?
• Self-install only, or is professional installation available, and at what cost?
• Is equipment included, and what’s the return window if the signal is weak in my home?

• Simple 15‑minute self‑install
• No monthly equipment fees or annual contracts
• Worry‑free 15‑day test drive

Comparing Internet Connection Types At a Glance

Contracts, Pricing & Fees

More goes into your monthly internet bill than the service itself. Internet costs can include everything from price hikes, taxes, one-time fees, and recurring charges, depending on the plan you choose. Here are the most common things to anticipate before signing on the dotted line.

Contracts

When you sign up for a new internet service, you may be required to sign a contract, and this contract is usually for one or two years.

A contract will outline the services included in your plan, the monthly price, and any penalties for early termination. It’s important to know about these charges if you decide to cancel your service before the contract is up or wish to change something on your account.

Promotional Discounts

Internet providers often use promotional pricing to attract new customers. This pricing can be a great deal, but it’s essential to understand all the terms and conditions before signing up. The last thing you want is to get hit with an unexpected price increase months down the road.

Most promotional discounts last for the first year of service. This price is usually lower than the regular rate, but it may not be the best internet service around. Compare similar plans across multiple providers to ensure you get the most for your money.

One-Time Fees

Installation Fee: $35 – $200

Self-installation is often free, but professional installation or new construction can raise costs.

Early Termination Fee (ETF): $100 – $400

ETFs are frequently prorated or based on the number of months remaining in your contract. Opt for a no-contract plan if your housing is short-term.

Late Payment Fee: $10 – $25

Set up autopay (if feasible) to avoid late payments. If your payment is late, the provider may charge a reconnection fee if the service was disconnected.

Recurring Fees

Selling internet services is competitive. There will always be fees, taxes, and surcharges beyond the advertised plan price. The following fees may also apply to your bill. But, providers often include or waive some or all of them to attract customers. If they’re part of a promotion, be prepared for a higher bill when the promo period ends.

Equipment Rental Fee: $10 – $15

Some providers include equipment in your costs, while others charge an additional monthly fee. You may use your modem or router to reduce long-term costs, as long as it is compatible with the provider’s service.

Data Caps and Overage Fee: $10+

If your plan has a monthly data cap, you may be charged per-GB overage or experience throttling/deprioritization after your allowance.

Satellite Internet Data Policies

Satellite internet typically uses priority data (a monthly high-speed allowance) and then throttles or deprioritizes your traffic after you exceed it, especially during congestion. Some plans also shape video resolution and offer off-peak data windows that don’t count against your main allowance.

Add Ons: $10+

Mesh or whole-home Wi-Fi, unlimited-data add-ons, or TV packages can add $10+ each per month. Sometimes these are included as part of a promotion.

Calculate Your Monthly Price After Promotion

• Intro price: $___/mo for ___ months
• Price after promo: $___/mo (effective month ___)
• Included discounts: autopay □ / paperless □ / bundle □
• Contract and early termination fee (ETF): ___ months; ETF $___ (if any)
• Equipment & installation: gateway $/mo; pro install $ (self-install □)
• Data policy: unlimited □ / cap ___ GB; after-cap: throttle □ / $___ per ___ GB (max $___)

Choosing Internet Speeds

Start with the FCC’s broadband baseline (100 Mbps down / 20 Mbps up), then scale up based on simultaneous use in your household.

• Light (1–2 people; browsing, HD streaming): 100–200 Mbps
• Moderate (3–4 people; 4K streaming, video calls): 300–500 Mbps
• Heavy (many devices; content creation, gaming, and cloud backups): 500 Mbps–1 Gbps+

Tip: If you upload often (work from home, create content), look for fiber or cable that offers faster upload speeds.

What Equipment Do I Need for Internet Service?

The equipment required varies depending on what provider you’re signed up for, the type of internet you choose, and how many devices are connected. Homes usually need a combination of one or more of these devices: modem, router, and Wi-Fi extender.

Modems

A modem is required to receive internet service from your ISP. However, some providers offer routers with built-in modems. If you choose a built-in modem, you won’t need to purchase a separate modem or router.

Wi-Fi Routers

A Wi-Fi router lets you connect multiple devices to the internet at once. They also allow you to create a Wi-Fi network in your home or office. This means that you can connect devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets to the internet without using a cable.

There are a variety of routers available. It’s important to choose one that is the right size and has the features you need to fit your home size and budget.

Wi-Fi Extenders

Wi-Fi extenders are add-on devices that allow you to extend the range of your Wi-Fi network. This means that you can connect to the internet in rooms that were previously unreachable. There are a variety of Wi-Fi extenders available on the market, fit for different speeds and home sizes.

Before You Order Internet Service

Use the following list to ensure you’re getting the service and price you expect before buying.

• Get both promo and post-promo prices in writing.
• Confirm data policy (caps vs. unlimited, what happens after).
• Decide on self-install vs. pro install and total one-time fees.
• Verify autopay/paperless rules tied to the price.
• Ask about credit check, deposits, and return window.
• Make sure the exact tech and upload speed at your address match your needs (video calls, uploads, gaming).
• If keeping your number, confirm porting steps and timing.
• If you’ll move soon, confirm transfer options to avoid downtime or fees.

A No-Surprise First-Time Internet Buying Experience

The internet is a powerful tool for education, business, or just fun. However, knowing what you need to get started can be challenging. This first-time buyer’s guide should help simplify the process by providing an overview of what you can expect to pay and get from your local internet provider.