Symptoms
- Considering switching to a different internet provider for better speed, price, or reliability
- Unsure how to time the switch to avoid a period with no internet
- Worried about early termination fees from the current provider
- Uncertain whether existing equipment will work with the new provider
Likely causes
- CommonWanting better speed, price, or reliability than the current provider offersThis is a normal, common reason to consider switching and not itself a problem to fix.
What to do
- Check your current provider's contract for an early termination fee and note the exact cost if you cancel before the term ends.
- Confirm the new provider actually services your specific address, not just your general area, using their official availability checker.
- Ask the new provider about their installation timeline and try to schedule it before canceling your current service, so there's no gap without internet.
- Check whether your current modem/router will work with the new provider, or if you'll need new equipment (very likely if switching between cable, DSL, and fiber).
- Ask the new provider about promotional pricing details, including how long the promotional rate lasts and what the price becomes afterward.
- Only cancel your current service after the new service is confirmed installed and working, to avoid any downtime.
- Return any rented equipment (modem, router) to your old provider promptly after canceling, following their specific return instructions, to avoid unreturned equipment fees.
Tools and parts
- Phone or computer for researching providers
When to call a pro
Not usually needed for this issue; a straightforward call to both providers to coordinate timing is generally sufficient.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.