Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about finding, comparing, and switching internet and TV providers.
Getting Started
Enter your 5-digit ZIP code in the search box on our homepage. We'll instantly show every internet and TV provider available at your specific address.
Yes — completely free. We never charge for comparisons, quotes, or support. There is no account or signup required.
No account needed. Just enter your ZIP code and start comparing providers instantly.
We update our coverage data regularly. For the most precise availability at your specific address, call the provider directly — they can confirm service to your exact location.
Internet Plans & Speeds
For a single person streaming HD video: 25 Mbps is sufficient. For households of 2–4 with streaming and video calls: 100–200 Mbps is ideal. For 4+ people with gaming, 4K streaming, or remote work: 400 Mbps or faster is recommended.
Fiber is the fastest and most reliable, using fiber-optic cables (speeds up to 5 Gbps). Cable uses coaxial TV cables and is widely available (up to 1.2 Gbps). DSL uses phone lines and is slower but widely available in rural areas. Satellite works anywhere with a clear sky view — HughesNet, Viasat, and Starlink offer this.
Download speed is how fast data moves from the internet to your device — used for streaming, browsing, and downloading files. Upload speed is how fast data moves from your device to the internet — important for video calls, gaming, and working from home.
Advertised speeds are the maximum possible under ideal conditions. Actual speeds vary based on the number of connected devices, time of day, WiFi vs. wired connection, and network congestion in your neighborhood.
A data cap limits how much internet data you can use per month. If you exceed the cap, speeds may be throttled or you may face extra charges. Providers like Spectrum, Verizon Fios, and T-Mobile Home Internet offer unlimited data with no caps.
Plans, Pricing & Contracts
Advertised prices typically require autopay, paperless billing, and are for new customers only. Taxes, equipment rental fees (modem/router), and installation charges are usually added on top. Always ask the agent for the all-in monthly total.
No-contract plans give you flexibility to switch anytime without early termination fees (ETFs). Contract plans sometimes offer lower monthly rates or promotional pricing. If you're confident in a provider, a 1–2 year contract can save money.
An ETF is a penalty charged if you cancel before the end of your contract term. These typically range from $50–$300 depending on how many months remain. Always confirm ETF terms before signing.
Yes. Most major providers (Spectrum, Xfinity, AT&T, Cox) offer bundle discounts when you add TV to your internet plan, saving $10–$30/mo compared to ordering separately. See our Bundles page for current offers.
Switching Providers
1) Find a new provider via ZIP code search. 2) Call to confirm availability and sign up. 3) Schedule installation. 4) Return your old equipment. 5) Cancel your old service after the new one is working. Avoid any service gap by scheduling new installation before canceling.
ISP-provided email addresses (like @att.net or @comcast.net) typically cannot be transferred to a new provider. We recommend using a provider-independent email (Gmail, Outlook, ProtonMail) so you never lose access when switching.
Most providers supply a modem/gateway as part of the plan (sometimes for a monthly rental fee). You can often use your own modem to avoid the fee — check the provider's approved equipment list. A separate WiFi router may improve coverage in larger homes.
Self-install kits (common with cable and DSL) take 30–60 minutes. Professional installation (required for fiber and satellite) usually takes 2–4 hours. Schedule a few days in advance — appointment windows fill up.
TV & Bundles
Cable TV offers live sports, local news, and channels that streaming doesn't always carry. However, streaming services have improved dramatically. A bundle (internet + TV) from one provider is often the most cost-effective option if you need both.
Cable TV comes through a coaxial cable from a local provider. It requires no dish and works in any weather. Satellite TV (DISH, DIRECTV) requires a dish and can be disrupted by heavy rain or obstructions, but is available in rural areas without cable infrastructure.