User-friendly software and the easy plug-and-click usability of the hardware setup have made connecting to the Internet fairly uncomplicated. The most challenging part of the process may be deciding which company to use for your connection. Every company offers a little something different, but you don't want to get caught up in the language of the sale and end up paying more and getting less. When comparing Internet rates and benefits, make sure to scrutinize the fine print.

Speed and Cost

Keep in mind, all companies that offer Internet connection will connect you to the same Internet: the World Wide Web. No one company has the ability to open up restricted sections of the Internet that others cannot. So the first point to consider is what kind of connection you need. There are three types of Internet connections: dial-up, broadband and cable. Make your choice between these three services based on speed and cost. Dial-up connections download information the slowest at a maximum of 56k (kilobytes/second.) Broadband connections download at an average speed of 467k and Cable's average runs at around 708K. Dial-up connections cost the lowest monthly fee, but also charge you by the minute for the amount of time you spend online. Internet service providers will offer different monthly rates for broadband and cable connections, as well as a hook-up fee. Compare these two numbers first when you start comparing rates.

Bundling

Another feature of Internet service providers to compare is their bundling packages. Many companies will offer to handle, not only your Internet connection, but take control of your phone bill, cable bill and offer you wireless-Internet service too. Look over your bills, add up the amount you usually spend each month on all of these services. Compare that number to the rates of the bundling services to designate which package will work best for you. For example, just because company A offers a lower rate for your Internet connection than Company B, Company B offers a lower rate for your telephone bill and a lower cost for cable television than your satellite company is currently charging.

Sales Gimmicks

Finally, once you have made a checklist of all your needs and matched them with your budget, you should take a look at the sales gimmicks companies offer to grab your attention. Many service providers will now give you a free wireless router with hookup. This benefit acknowledges that many people use laptops in addition to, or in place of their desktop models. Other companies give free installation or cash-back rebates with purchase. Just make sure that you are not losing money in the long run in order to save right now.

Source:

Comscore.com

Helpwithpcs.com: Internet Connection