Latest news with #ISPs
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Airties Unveils "Airties Multi": New Connectivity Experience Platform for ISPs to Serve Multifamily Dwelling Units (MDUs)
Purpose-built solution for MDUs provides a hardware agnostic software platform enabling ISPs to combine residential gateways within units with enterprise-grade access points in common areas to deliver a converged, scalable, and cost-effective connectivity experience Provides real-time monitoring & management of wireless devices & users with network settings & dashboards for ISPs, property managers, homeowners' associations/boards, & residents Utilizes Airties' AI-driven software to optimize network performance, minimize interference, & deliver fast & consistent connections to increase customer satisfaction & NPS & reduce churn PARIS, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In advance of ANGA COM 2025, Airties, a global leader of AI-driven software that improves the connectivity experience for ISPs' subscribers, today announced the launch of Airties Multi, a purpose-built platform designed to provide reliable, optimized, and converged managed Wi-Fi connectivity across multifamily dwelling units (MDUs). Airties Multi was created to meet the increasing demand by ISPs to provide enhanced end-to-end connectivity and services for the expansive MDU market. Unlike traditional systems, this hardware-agnostic software solution allows ISPs to centrally manage both in-unit and common area connectivity. It leverages ISPs' existing residential hardware or other hardware of their choice, providing a scalable, low-cost solution for all MDU stakeholders, including ISPs, property managers, homeowners' associations, and residents. "Airties Multi was designed to help ISPs enhance their core connectivity business, attract new customers, and improve customer satisfaction through a premium broadband experience that was purpose-built for MDUs," said Metin Taskin, founder and CEO of Airties. "It provides a hardware agnostic software platform enabling ISPs to combine residential Wi-Fi gateways and extenders with enterprise grade access points in common areas to deliver a converged connectivity experience. It also enables ISPs to use existing residential hardware as part of their MDU deployments creating a highly scalable and cost-effective solution powered by our AI-driven performance optimization software. Airties Multi gives ISPs customized dashboards for themselves, for tenants, and for property managers, and will help unlock new monetization opportunities in the rapidly growing MDU market." The MDU sector is seeing substantial growth, driven by the increasing demand for reliable connectivity solutions in residential buildings. Industry research1 indicates that the clear majority of residents prefer having community-wide, pre-installed Wi-Fi offerings. Residents are looking for enhanced amenities, including connected fitness centers, EV car-charging with connectivity in garages, and common business areas or centers for remote work. This presents a unique opportunity for ISPs to deliver better connectivity solutions that meet the needs of modern tenants. Airties Multi is an ideal solution for ISPs looking to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive market by offering more than basic and bespoke connectivity. By providing enhanced features such as Wi-Fi optimization, device management, seamless onboarding, and roaming across multifamily dwelling units, Airties Multi can help ISPs deliver superior service, increase customer satisfaction, reduce churn, and improve their bottom line. Airties Multi offers a comprehensive array of tailored features that enhance the connectivity experience, including: Seamless Wi-Fi in the Entire MDU: Residents and visitors can enjoy seamless connectivity in the entire MDU ranging from a complex's common spaces like lounges, lobbies, business offices, garages, and fitness centers to their own private units without painful connectivity gaps; Scalable and Cost-Effective Deployment: The hardware agnostic software platform enables ISPs to leverage existing residential Wi-Fi gateways and extenders within units with a choice of enterprise-grade access points in common areas to deliver a converged connectivity experience. Each residence also receives a dedicated, private, and optimized Wi-Fi experience designed to meet their unique needs; MDU Management Network: Property managers or homeowners' association boards can have a dedicated network secured from the rest of users to manage connectivity across the entire building, ensuring reliability and enabling troubleshooting support; IoT Network: Supports the growing demand for smart devices and IoT applications including security cameras and smart doorbells within the MDU environment; AI-Enhanced Wi-Fi Optimization: The platform leverages Airties' artificial intelligence software capabilities to optimize Wi-Fi performance and minimize interference, ensuring consistent, high-speed connections; Device and User Management: Provides easy-to-use interfaces for managing connected devices, tenants, and network settings, streamlining the user experience for all stakeholders; Security and Troubleshooting Support: Built-in security features ensure that the network remains safe and secure, while integrated troubleshooting tools provide prompt issue resolution; and Advanced Cloud Management: Airties Cloud provides 24x7 real-time monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimization of MDU networks. Its single-pane-of-glass interface enables ISPs to efficiently manage connectivity from one central dashboard focused for MDUs with permission-based dashboards for other stakeholders. With Airties Home, ISPs have long relied upon Airties' software for the ongoing optimization of their customers' home broadband experience to help reduce churn, attract new customers, lower operating costs, and innovate in new ways. Today's Airties Multi introduction extends this portfolio and follows the recent introduction of Airties Pro, a fit-for-purpose solution designed for ISPs to serve their high-value SMB customers and prospects. At ANGA COM 2025, June 3-5 in Cologne, Germany, Airties will exhibit its full suite of offerings, including Airties Multi in Hall 7, Booth A19. Airties' Founder and CEO, Metin Taskin, will also speak on a panel discussion about "Wi-Fi and Home Connectivity" on the Innovation Stage, June 4 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Airties has received many prestigious industry awards for its innovations, including: "Best Home Wi-Fi Solution Award" from Broadband World Forum; "Best Wi-Fi Service Provider Solution" and "Best Home Wi-Fi Product" awards from Wi-Fi NOW; "Best Wi-Fi Innovation" and "Best-In Home Wi-Fi Network" awards from Wireless Broadband Alliance; "Best Broadband Customer Experience" from Cable & Satellite International; and numerous others. Additional information about Airties Multi and Airties can be found at: About AirtiesAirties is a global leader of AI-driven software solutions that improve the connectivity experience for ISPs' subscribers to help reduce churn, attract new customers, lower operating costs, and innovate. Leveraging insights from millions of managed homes and businesses, Airties provides industry-leading customer experience measurement and optimization for broadband service providers to improve customer satisfaction and NPS scores. Airties' holistic suite of hardware-agnostic software enables ISPs to manage home connectivity, based on leading industry standards and open-source software, across their fiber, cable/DSL, and fixed wireless access (FWA) deployments. Airties' customers include leading service providers such as AT&T, Cox, Deutsche Telekom, Telia, Telstra, T-Mobile US, Vodafone, and many others across the world. More information is available at 1 Research from NMHC (National Multifamily Housing Council) June 2024 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Airties Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
DoT seeks ISPs to use BharatNet infrastructure to bridge digital divide
NEW DELHI: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has urged the country's internet service provider (ISP) industry to increase the utilisation of the BharatNet infrastructure to bridge the digital divide in India. 'We at DBN (Digital Bharat Nidhi) are implementing the amended BharatNet project with an outlay of nearly ₹1.5 lakh crore, which aims to connect nearly 2.6 lakh gram panchayats. I feel that it is a great opportunity for various stakeholders, including ISPs, to be part of this huge exercise taken by the government of India to bridge the digital divide,' Niraj Verma, administrator, DBN, said Tuesday at an industry conference. BharatNet, a rural telecom connectivity project, is aimed at providing non-discriminatory access to broadband connectivity to all telecom operators, including ISPs, with the objective to connect a total of 6.5 lakh villages. However, the ambitious digital connectivity has been facing several execution-related challenges despite multiple extensions. "We have tried twice, Bharat Net Phase 1 and Phase 2, and we did not succeed to that extent due to various reasons. In Phase 1, we tried to connect 1.2 lakh villages, and then in Phase 2, tenders were awarded for eight states. The results had been mixed."Verma added. Under the BharatNet Phase 3, he said tenders have been awarded in 12 packages, including in major states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, and West Bengal. State-controlled Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has previously awarded contracts to Polycab , ITI Limited , Sterlite Technologies (STL), Telecommunications Consultants of India Limited (TCIL), and Pratap Technocrats, among others, under multiple packages of the BharatNet Phase 3 programme. Initially envisioned in 2011 under the UPA-II regime as the National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN), it was rebranded as BharatNet in 2015. Read More | Controversies surface over BSNL's ₹1.39 lakh crore BharatNet 3 programme In July 2022, the Cabinet approved the merger of Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) with BSNL to accelerate project rollout. In August 2023, the Centre approved the Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP) to expand fibre connectivity to the remaining 3.8 lakh non-Gram Panchayat villages on a demand basis. The top official said that nearly 2.12 lakh villages are service-ready today, cautioning that only 50,000 gram panchayats have an uptime of over 98% under BharatNet. 'We have now changed our focus from implementing the project to utilisation of the network and in amended BharatNet, it is a little different in the sense that we are giving the states as packages to EPC contractors, and we have a referee which is in the form of independent engineers,' Verma said. 'The idea is to get the services from this EPC contractor and a network with 98% uptime.' He added that a stable network offers 'exciting opportunities' to wireline ISPs, who can lease bandwidth or dark fiber to provide backhaul for mobile towers, or deliver broadband services and generate a new revenue model. 'We are engaging BharatNet Udyamis (entrepreneurs) for providing the connections, and anyone, including ISPs, can participate as BNUs under BSNL. ISPs can also have a look at the network that will come up and how they would like to provide services. We are ready to look at any alternate model where our utilisation goes up,' the official said. Under BharatNet, as of December 2024, 6,92,428 km of Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) has been laid and 2,09,281 gram panchayats (GPs) are service-ready on OFC. In addition, 5,032 GPs have been connected over satellite media, thus, a total of 2,14,313 GPs are service-ready, the Ministry of Communications said last year.
CNET
24-05-2025
- CNET
You Can Boost Your Internet Speed on the Cheap: My Tested Tips for Faster Broadband at Home
In the last decade, I've lived in a handful of places across Los Angeles, each with its unique internet access issues. Wrestling with varying speeds and service reliability opened my eyes to mastering ways to improve my connectivity, no matter my ZIP code. Tharon Green/CNET I've lived in everything from a Faraday cage concrete building in downtown LA to a Santa Monica beachside apartment with an exclusive agreement tied to a sluggish internet provider. I'm fortunate -- or at least I feel that way -- at my current home in Hollywood. There are no impenetrable building materials, and I can choose my internet service provider. And it's pretty decent; I don't have many complaints. Unfortunately, most of my LA friends and family suffer from bad internet, which is crazy because you'd think a metropolis like LA would have easily accessible, high-quality internet citywide, not just in some neighborhoods. And I can only imagine what smaller communities across the US deal with regarding ISPs. Revive Slow Gigabit Speeds Without Panicking Revive Slow Gigabit Speeds Without Panicking Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:45 Loaded : 78.99% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:45 Share Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Revive Slow Gigabit Speeds Without Panicking Through all my moves, I've built up a toolkit of free ways to maximize my internet connection, no matter how poky it is. Though you can throw money at the problem -- such as adding a Wi-Fi extender -- most of these methods don't require you to spend money, which is always a good place to start. Here are my internet speed-improving tips you can use before you move, right after you move or where you live right now -- and you can do it for free or for very little money. Locating local internet providers Read more: Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: What I Learned by Testing Internet Connections at Home There's a lot you can do before you move to improve your chances of getting a great internet better internet service before you move If you're moving into a new place, first, congratulations. Second, sorry. Moving is a pain in the butt, even if you plan well (ask me about my major move in 2023). You can start packing your boxes weeks in advance, create a checklist for changing your address and hire movers -- and there will still be things that don't turn out as planned. An often overlooked part of moving is considering internet service providers, especially when you're evaluating places. Unlike square footage, the number of bathrooms or local schools, many of us don't give much thought to ISPs until we've actually signed the lease/mortgage and moved. 1. Ask questions first When looking at a new place, do your internet homework and talk to the realtor or landlord. Better yet, ask your potential neighbors about internet options in the neighborhood and whether they're affordable, fast and reliable. Check to see if they have workarounds or strategies they use to improve their internet. 2. Utilize online tools You can also check out any location with your state's broadband map website, if it has one, to see all of your internet options. In California, we have the California Interactive Broadband Map. Once you enter an address, you can filter to show just fixed broadband, as well as mobile options, for ISPs. Some sites include advertised upload and download speeds, but beware that maps may not be up-to-date. Despite not showing reviews for ISPs in the area, sites like this do provide a decent picture of what you'll be able to choose from. This image shows that this particular Santa Monica location has only two fixed broadband options, but it also has many mobile alternatives. Nelson Aguilar/CNET If you want more of our guidance, CNET has a comprehensive catalog of all the best internet service providers across the country. Each story is sorted by state, city or town, providing informative reviews and comparisons to help you find the best ISP in your area. Check out: My Week With AT&T Internet Air: How Did It Fare? 3. Dig into the details of your home's building materials Another thing to do before you move is to check the building materials of your prospective home. Routers transmit over-the-air radio waves to connect your various devices to your home's internet network. But the materials in your home can disrupt these signals (much like I discovered in my previous concrete-and-brick loft apartment). Wi-Fi signals have an especially difficult time penetrating materials like metal, concrete and brick, meaning that even if your internet connection is fast and reliable, your physical home can disrupt your signal and limit your connectivity in your home. Common building materials like plywood, drywall and glass don't affect your Wi-Fi signal as much as those denser materials. Get better internet service right after you move You finally moved into your new home, and now it's time to choose an ISP. If you don't know your area's options, use websites like ours or the FCC National Broadband Map to see which ISPs are available. You can also type your new address into AT&T's, Spectrum's or Xfinity's websites to see similar information. 4. Get to know what speed you actually need When deciding on an ISP, start with your estimated requirements. That'll give you a quick rundown as to what fast internet is, how much internet you use, upload versus download speeds, data caps and more. Don't miss: My T-Mobile 5G Home Internet Experience: What Works and What I Wish Was Better Unfortunately, after installation and once you start using the new service, you might still encounter issues with connection strength and speed. 5. Try it out before you fully commit Most ISPs offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, including Spectrum, Verizon, Cox and others. This usually means that you can cancel your internet service within 30 days and get a full refund without paying an early termination fee (minus any possible installation or restocking fees). Other ISPs, like AT&T (2 weeks), have different refund guarantee policies or none at all (Frontier). Before choosing an internet service provider, read the 30-day money-back guarantee closely to see if you apply. Nelson Aguilar/CNET I took advantage of this to try out three ISP services in my new home. After the service was hooked up, the promised speeds differed among the three. 6. Don't rent a router from your provider Another way to get faster internet speeds is to avoid using your ISP's equipment -- only use the modem they provide. Renting a router from your ISP is convenient, but it can end up being more expensive over a longer period of time, and the router options are limited and may not be the best option for your home. It can be frustrating to realize that you've been paying for higher speeds that your ISP-provided router can't even deliver. Also, make sure you're using the right cables to connect your modem to your router and router to your devices, as Cat5 and older cables may not carry your faster speeds. (Cat6e and newer generally support consumer internet speeds.) Read more: Should You Buy or Rent Your Router? The Wrong Decision Cost Me Nearly $1K Get better internet service at your current home Maybe you're not moving, and you've been dealing with bad internet service for a while now at your current home. No matter how long you've been living there, you can still improve your internet speed. I want to stick to the theme of not spending money to get faster internet speeds, but you might have to consider paying more if you have slow internet at your long-term residence. 7. Shop around The one relatively cheap thing you can do is look into your internet service contract and see if you can cancel early without any early termination fees. Then, you can shop around and try different ISPs that might work better. 8. Upgrade your equipment However, if you're stuck in a contract or want to make your existing ISP work, one of the easiest ways to improve your speeds is to upgrade your router. Yes, that costs money, but it can be the answer to your internet woes -- and unlike spending more for your monthly plan, is a one-time purchase. For a long time, I had Netgear's Nighthawk R66700 router, which is considered a generally good brand. However, despite a high-speed plan, I wasn't getting great speeds at my home. After consulting with a few CNET colleagues, I decided to upgrade my home setup to a mesh router system (more specifically, the Eero 6 Plus). This system provides more reliable Wi-Fi coverage in bigger homes or homes with dead zones (which is a problem in my current apartment) compared to your typical single-unit routers. The Eero 6 Plus mesh router has been a godsend for my 1800 sq. ft. apartment. Ry Crist/CNET Depending on the mesh router system, several routers are placed around your home, and they all work as a single unit, keeping you connected no matter what room you're in. A mesh network is an investment, but there are affordable options out there, like Google's Nest WiFi or Netgear's Orbi AC1200. Don't miss: I've Used 5G Home Internet for Years and I've Found It's Closing the Gap With Cable I know that Wi-Fi extenders might seem like the answer for getting better speeds in your home, especially because they're pretty inexpensive, but extenders don't perform as well as mesh networks, and they don't typically work as a cohesive unit across your home. Unfortunately, a mesh network won't be the miracle fix for everyone because, as I mentioned before, each home has its own unique problems. The fix could end up being a faulty Ethernet cable or updating your modem's firmware. It could even be as simple as restarting your router. We all know that works every once in a while. The best thing you can do, without spending money, is perform a few diagnostic tests to pinpoint your setup's weak point, like running a speed test, connecting to different devices, using Wi-Fi close to your router and rebooting your various internet devices. Of course, it's possible that you run through all these suggestions and find that none will fix your particular situation. Though unfortunate, there's always the last resort: bumping up your service tier and paying more to get faster internet. Which is, for better or worse, a modern necessity. Read more: Two Technicians Share the 5 Worst Places to Put Your Router
CNET
23-05-2025
- CNET
Choosing Between Cable and Fiber Internet: What Helped Me Decide
There are several kinds of internet technologies in use today, including satellite, DSL and fixed wireless, but none of them come close to cable and fiber when it comes to offering fast, reliable internet. Nobody likes slow, inconsistent internet. So after having to deal with buffering, lag and regular outages, I finally decided to find out which kind of internet would be the best. Here's what I found out. Fiber is the undisputed ruler when it comes to speed and reliability. With a fiber connection, you'll get symmetrical upload and download speeds, congestion won't be a common issue and your connection will be more stable. All of those factors make it perfect for streaming, gaming and remote work. Plus, fiber is also future-proof. But cable isn't exactly a bad option. It's still the more widely available one, comes in cheaper up front and ISPs usually bundle it with TV and phone services, making it the more practical choice for many households. So, which one should you pick? We made this guide breaking down the pros, cons and key differences between cable and fiber internet to help you make the right choice for your home and your budget. Coaxial internet cables vs. fiber-optic internet cables The difference between cable and fiber internet starts with how the service reaches your home. Locating local internet providers Cable internet uses coaxial cables, the same ones that bring cable TV to your home. These cables consist of a solid or woven copper wire surrounded by insulating and protective sheathings. The cables are an effective means for transmitting various signals, including those for your internet connection, but signal strength and quality can lessen with distance, interference and network congestion. Fiber internet uses thin glass strands called fiber-optic cables to carry data, such as your internet service, via light signals. The technology can carry greater amounts of data at faster speeds than coaxial cables and is also better equipped to retain signal strength and quality over long distances, like across the ocean. The downside of fiber-optic cables is that they are more expensive than coaxial cables, and laying new lines is a logistical challenge. As a result, cable internet boasts far greater availability than fiber. Let's get into some of the details of fiber internet and cable internet and the benefits, drawbacks and affordability of both. Cable vs. fiber quick comparison Internet type Connection Starting monthly price Download speed range Upload speed range Nationwide availability Cable Coaxial cable $15-$120 100-2,000Mbps 10-200Mbps 82% Fiber Fiber-optic cable $20-$900 100-50,000Mbps 100-50,000Mbps 43% Show more (0 item) Shop providers at my address Cable internet pros Availability : Approximately 82% of US households are serviceable for broadband speeds of 100 megabits per second down and 20Mbps up. : Approximately 82% of US households are serviceable for broadband speeds of 100 megabits per second down and 20Mbps up. Low cost : Cable providers may have the cheapest introductory rates on home internet. : Cable providers may have the cheapest introductory rates on home internet. Versatility: Cable modems can typically be set up anywhere in the home, which may allow for a better Wi-Fi connection. Cable internet cons Speeds : Cable internet doesn't match the download speed potential of fiber, and upload speeds are significantly slower. : Cable internet doesn't match the download speed potential of fiber, and upload speeds are significantly slower. Network congestion: Peak usage times can result in slower speeds to the home. Peak usage times can result in slower speeds to the home. Fine print: This is provider-specific, but with cable internet, you're more likely to encounter price hikes, data caps, equipment fees and contracts. Fiber internet pros Speeds : Fiber is the fastest internet connection type, and upload speeds can match download speeds. : Fiber is the fastest internet connection type, and upload speeds can match download speeds. Reliability : Fiber-optic lines are less susceptible to network congestion and interference. : Fiber-optic lines are less susceptible to network congestion and interference. Value: Compared to cable, fiber plans often have a lower cost per Mbps, along with fewer fees and price hikes. Fiber internet cons Availability: Less than half of US residences are serviceable for fiber internet, according to recent data from the Federal Communications Commission. Less than half of US residences are serviceable for fiber internet, according to recent data from the Federal Communications Commission. Pricing : Fiber internet may have a higher starting price than cable internet. : Fiber internet may have a higher starting price than cable internet. Bundling: Few fiber providers also offer TV or other home services, limiting the availability of internet bundles. Cable vs. fiber internet availability Fiber availability is growing but is still far behind cable internet. FCC You're nearly twice as likely to be serviceable for cable internet than fiber internet. Cable connections are available to more than 82% of US households, whereas fiber coverage lands around 43%, according to the FCC. Both cable and fiber providers largely operate in urban and suburban areas, but cable often provides more broad and consistent coverage throughout a given location. Fiber availability is limited to select areas in a city, and serviceability may vary from one neighborhood to the next. My hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, is a good example. The main local cable provider, Spectrum, is available to 93% of the city's residential addresses. Two major fiber ISPs, AT&T Fiber and Google Fiber, serve the area, but only around 60% of Charlotte addresses are serviceable for fiber internet. Top 5 cable internet providers by availability Top 5 fiber internet providers by availability If you're shopping for cable or fiber internet, you may encounter one or more of the providers above. Then again, there are hundreds of regional and hyper-local cable and fiber internet providers across the US. The available providers in your area will play a role in how much your internet costs, what speeds you can get and other service conditions. Cable vs. fiber plans and pricing Plan selection and pricing will vary by provider, but cable is commonly the best source of cheap internet, at least for the first year or two of service. Cable providers such as Astound, WOW and Xfinity, for example, have introductory rates as low as $20 to $25 a month for download speeds ranging from 150 to 300Mbps. Fiber internet is available for $20 to $30 a month -- Ziply Fiber and Frontier Fiber offer 100Mbps ($20) and 200Mbps ($30) plans, respectively -- but, for the most part, expect to pay at least $40 to $50 monthly for service. AT&T Fiber, Quantum Fiber and Verizon Fios are $50 to $55 per month in most locations, while Google Fiber's cheapest plan starts at $70. Cheap cable internet plans Source: CNET analysis of provider data Cheap fiber internet plans Plan Starting price Max download speed Cost per Mbps Equipment fee Ziply Fiber 100/100 $20 100Mbps 20 cents $12 (optional) Frontier Fiber 200 Read full review $30 200Mbps 15 cents None Metronet 100 Read full review $30 100Mbps 30 cents None Altafiber Fioptics 100 $35 100Mbps 35 cents $12 (optional) Kinetic Fiber 300 $40 300Mbps 13 cents $11 (optional) Brightspeed Fiber 200 $50 200Mbps 25 cents None Quantum Fiber 500 $50 500Mbps 10 cents None Verizon Fios 300 Read full review $50 300Mbps 17 cents None Show more (3 items) Shop providers at my address Source: CNET analysis of provider data Choosing the cheapest internet plan from a cable or fiber provider often means accepting the slowest speeds. As you get into faster speed tiers -- 500Mbps to 1,000Mbps, or 1 gigabit per second -- pricing is a bit more evenly matched, although cable may still have the advantage, depending on the provider. In select areas, Astound, Spectrum, WOW and other cable ISPs have lower introductory pricing on gig service than you'll find with most fiber providers. Just keep in mind that while cable internet's low pricing is tempting, it may not last long. Consider introductory and standard pricing Cable internet may start out cheaper, but many providers have steep price increases after the first year or two. Depending on the plan you choose, Astound, Mediacom and Xfinity rates can increase by $30 to $50 or more once the introductory pricing expires. Monthly pricing is a bit more stable with fiber internet. AT&T Fiber has no set price increases after 12 months, Verizon Fios offers a price guarantee of two to four years and Quantum Fiber will lock in your monthly rate for as long as you keep your plan. When comparing cable and fiber internet providers, be sure to evaluate introductory and standard rates. If you go with cable for the cheaper initial pricing, keep an eye on your bill and be ready to switch internet providers when the promotional pricing period ends. Cable vs. fiber internet speeds Like pricing, available speeds will vary by provider, but download speeds will probably be faster with fiber. Upload speeds will definitely be faster. Most cable and fiber internet providers offer download speeds up to a gig. A few cable ISPs offer speeds higher than a gig -- Astound goes up to 1.5Gbps, WOW has a 1.2Gbps plan and Xfinity stretches to 2Gbps in select areas -- but a single gig is typically the standard max for cable. With fiber internet, it's not uncommon to have a single gig speed tier, plus multi-gigabit plans with speeds of 2Gbps, 5Gbps, 8Gbps or higher available. Ziply Fiber offers the fastest home internet plan I've encountered with maximum speeds of 50Gbps, or 50,000Mbps. Fastest cable internet plans Source: CNET analysis of provider data Fastest fiber internet plans Plan Starting price Max download speed Max upload speed Ziply Fiber 50 Gig $900 50,000Mbps 50,000Mbps Google Fiber 8 Gig Read full review $150 8,000Mbps 8,000Mbps Quantum Fiber 8 Gig $165 8,000Mbps 8,000Mbps AT&T Fiber 5 Gig Read full review $245 5,000Mbps 5,000Mbps Frontier Fiber 5 Gig Read full review $130 5,000Mbps 5,000Mbps Metronet 5 Gig Read full review $110 5,000Mbps 5,000Mbps Verizon Fios 2 Gig Read full review $110 2,300Mbps 1,500Mbps Kinetic 2 Gig $100 2,000Mbps 2,000Mbps Show more (3 items) Shop providers at my address Source: CNET analysis of provider data Notice that with cable internet plans, upload speeds are significantly slower than downloads. That's not necessarily a big deal as upload speeds play less of a role in our internet use (my colleague, Joe Supan, notes that his cable upload speeds are more than enough). Still, it's something to consider when evaluating cable versus fiber internet services. Cable vs. fiber additional considerations Price and speed are the two most important factors when choosing an internet provider, but that's not all you will want to take into account. Fees and contracts can have an impact on your satisfaction as a customer. Again, these things are more provider-specific than the technology, but I find fiber to be more favorable. Equipment, data caps and contracts Equipment rental fees can easily add $10 to $15 to your monthly bill, perhaps more if you have a mesh system with multiple pods. Select cable and fiber providers include equipment rental at no extra cost, but the scale tilts more to fiber. Astound offers free equipment rental. Xfinity may include free equipment with select plans, in select areas. Spectrum includes a free modem lease, but renting a router for Wi-Fi will add $10 to your monthly internet cost if you go with the 500Mbps plan. Cox, Mediacom and others may charge $13 to $15 to rent a gateway router. In contrast, AT&T Fiber, Frontier Fiber, Google Fiber, Quantum Fiber and Verizon Fios, among others, offer free equipment rental. The only potential downside to fiber is that you may be limited as to where you can put your router. Most homes wired for fiber have an installed ONT (the fiber version of a modem) that may not be in the best location for a router. My ONT, for instance, is hidden behind a closet panel, so my router unfortunately sits in a coat closet. As for data caps and contracts, fiber providers are again generally more favorable. Nearly all fiber providers I have come across offer unlimited data and few require a contract. Cable ISPs, on the other hand, are more likely to hold you to a data cap and contract with the threat of speed throttling or added fees. Customer satisfaction favors fiber ACSI One last provider-specific, cable-to-fiber comparison here, but it is one worth noting as it gives insight to how actual customers feel about their service. In the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index report, major fiber providers scored higher than the big cable ISPs. All named fiber providers (with the exception of Optimum, which is mostly a cable ISP and is notorious for low customer satisfaction), scored above 70/100. The closest cable providers, Cox and Spectrum, came in at 68/100. Granted, the ACSI categorizes fiber and non-fiber providers separately, but I would assume they are evaluated the same. Another source we like to use for customer satisfaction data, J.D. Power, paints a similar picture. In its 2024 report, a fiber provider led in all four markets: Verizon (East), Google Fiber (South) and AT&T (North Central, West). Cable vs. fiber internet recap Cable internet has its advantages -- availability, low introductory pricing, better bundling options -- but fiber is the superior connection type. Fiber internet is capable of faster speeds, up and down, and is better suited to consistently deliver those speeds, even during peak usage times. Depending on the available ISPs in your area, fiber may be a bit more expensive, but the overall value can't be beat. Cable vs. fiber FAQs Is switching from cable to fiber worth it? That depends on your needs and the available providers in your area. Fiber is a superior technology, with faster speeds and better reliability than cable, but there's no need to pay extra for it if your current cable plan meets your needs. If your local fiber provider offers a plan comparable to your cable service, the fiber connection may provide better speed consistency. Is Wi-Fi faster with fiber internet? The connection type, such as fiber, affects the speeds to your home. Speeds in your home, specifically over Wi-Fi, are more dependent on your router and the connected devices than the internet type. Fiber is the most reliable internet connection type when it comes to delivering fast, consistent speeds to your home, which may result in faster and more stable Wi-Fi speeds in your home. Is cable or fiber internet cheaper? Cable internet providers like Astound, Mediacom, WOW and Xfinity have some of the lowest introductory rates of any major ISP with service starting at $15 to $20 a month in some locations. Starting monthly rates for fiber providers typically run from $40 to $55, though $20 and $30 plans are available from select providers. It's important to consider more than the advertised monthly rate when shopping for cheap internet. Some cable internet providers appear to be cheap, but added costs such as equipment fees, data overages and built-in price hikes can inflate the cost over time. After evaluating all costs, fiber may prove to be the better value. Is cable or fiber internet better for gaming? Along with faster speeds and better reliability, fiber internet is likely to have a lower latency, or ping, than cable internet. Either technology will offer plenty of speed to game online, but the lower ping that comes with fiber will make for a better gaming experience.
CNET
23-05-2025
- Business
- CNET
Breaking Up With Your Broadband Provider? Here's How to Cancel Your Internet in 5 Simple Steps
Calling to cancel your internet service can be incredibly stressful and confusing. While most internet service providers will let you sign up for service online, many ISPs require you to call if you want to cancel. If you pick up the phone unprepared, you may find yourself talked into extending service for another year. But all is not lost. You're not in this alone. A recent CNET survey found that 63% of US adults are paying more for internet service than a year ago, leading one in five to consider switching or canceling service altogether. Below is a general step-by-step guide to canceling your internet service. Want to skip the steps? Click down to your specific internet provider for customer service numbers, potential fees, equipment return policies and more. After all, breaking up with your broadband provider and moving on to a better service shouldn't be stressful. Cancel your internet service with these easy steps There are five steps you'll need to follow: 1. Shop your internet options. 2. Plan for your cancellation. 3. Call to cancel. 4. Return all equipment. 5. Set up your new internet service. Locating local internet providers Simple enough, right? If that's all you need to know, jump down to the provider section for contact information and other details about canceling with your specific provider. Of course, we've not listed every possible ISP (that would require over 2,000 separate entries!), so you may not see yours, but you'll find most of the top providers. Meanwhile, if you need more clarification on each step, we've gone more in-depth below. 1. Shop your other internet options Whether you're moving or thinking about switching providers, understanding your options is the first step toward moving on from your current internet service. It's daunting to compare all the different plans and providers available to you, but first, determine what kind of speeds you want, what your budget is and whether or not you can get a good deal. If you're looking for a lightning-fast fiber connection or you want to cut the cord and switch to a wireless internet service, you have options. Some tips on shopping for new internet service Use a full address instead of a ZIP code. ISPs vary by location Evaluate more than plans and pricing. There's a lot to consider when signing up for internet service. Beyond the basics of your monthly bill, things like contracts data caps internet connection type There's a lot to consider when signing up for internet service. Beyond the basics of your monthly bill, things like Transferring service is better than canceling and starting over at a new address with the same provider. It'll give you a more seamless experience and should carry over any special promotions or deals you have. 2. Plan for your cancellation Getty Images OK, you're set on canceling with your provider. Now what? Figure out when exactly you want to terminate service, and do a little research beforehand so you know what to expect when the time comes. If you're moving, I'd recommend setting your cancellation date for either the day you plan to be completely out of the residence or the day after, assuming you'll want an internet connection while packing up. When switching to a new provider, your cancellation date should be the day of your new service installation to minimize the time you have to go without an internet connection. Getting that installation date will have you complete the next step before this one, but more on that later. Are you under contract? Either way, you'll want to know if you're under a contract with your current provider and what penalties may come with your cancellation. Early termination fees can run well over a hundred dollars, depending on the provider and how far into your contract you are when you cancel. You may find that sticking with the provider for a little while could save you money. Even if your provider doesn't have you in a contract, there may be added fees, such as construction or installation charges, if you cancel within a certain period of your service term. It's good to be aware of these fees ahead of time, so take time to review your service agreement or call customer service to inquire about them. There is no need to explain your intentions. Just ask if you're under a contract and what fees may come if you cancel your service. Helpful tips on planning your cancellation Be mindful of when the next billing cycle starts. Some providers may charge the next billing cycle in full when you cancel -- it'd be unfortunate to pay for an entire month of service if you'll only use it for a couple of days. Some providers may charge the next billing cycle in full when you cancel -- it'd be unfortunate to pay for an entire month of service if you'll only use it for a couple of days. If under contract, look for contract buyout offers. Spectrum Optimum T-Mobile 5G Home Internet Verizon Fios See what your current provider will do to keep your business. If you're switching providers for a cheaper rate or faster plan, call your current provider to see if you can negotiate a better deal Setting up service before canceling with your current provider if you're moving is unnecessary, as your cancellation date is pretty much determined by your move-out date. If you're switching, go ahead and get your new service and install date locked in before deciding when to cancel your current service. 3. Pick up the phone and call your provider Here we are, the most crucial step in canceling your internet service: actually canceling. Getty Images/CNET There's a slight chance you may be able to cancel online, but don't count on it. Most providers will make you call in to attempt to keep you as a customer. As with any customer service line, you can expect to be on hold for a bit. Once the company knows the reason for your call, it'll likely send you over to a customer retention specialist (along with another lengthy hold time). Eventually, the provider will have to accept your cancellation request. Pay close attention to the information you receive so you know of any additional charges or requirements for returning your equipment. Helpful tips on calling to cancel your internet service Have a pen and paper handy. You'll get vital information, including the name of the person who processed your cancellation, a confirmation number and details about fees and returning equipment. Write it all down, and also ask if the company can email it to you. You'll get vital information, including the name of the person who processed your cancellation, a confirmation number and details about fees and returning equipment. Write it all down, and also ask if the company can email it to you. Be firm in your request, but stay polite. Yes, the attempts to keep your business can be annoying, but it's their job. Remember, they're people on the other end of the line, too. As a CNET colleague shared in his story about negotiating with ISPs Yes, the attempts to keep your business can be annoying, but it's their job. Remember, they're people on the other end of the line, too. As a Don't give up on hold. I won't make any direct accusations, but it's plausible to assume that once a customer reveals their intent to cancel, the call is devalued in terms of priority. You may be on hold longer than you would if you wanted to pay your bill or upgrade your service. 4. Return all equipment The breakup is complete. The only thing left is to box up and return any belongings. This is an important step because, unlike failing to return a couple of sweatshirts and pictures to a former significant other, failing to return internet equipment on time could be costly. Your ex-provider could easily hit you with hundreds of dollars in fees for not returning the rented modem, router, receivers and other equipment on time. Are those items worth what your ISP charges in fees? Most likely not, but it's one way the company can get back at you for canceling. Don't let it have that satisfaction. Joe Supan / CNET Helpful tips on returning your equipment If possible, return to a brick-and-mortar store. Most providers have local stores where you can return your equipment. It may be out of the way, but doing it in person will ensure a successful return, and you'll get a receipt for the transaction. Most providers have local stores where you can return your equipment. It may be out of the way, but doing it in person will ensure a successful return, and you'll get a receipt for the transaction. See if your ISP will provide shipping materials and cover the costs. Your provider doesn't have to, but it's good customer service practice to make returning equipment as painless as possible. Ask for it if your ISP doesn't offer to send packing materials and cover the shipping cost. You may not get it, but it never hurts to ask. Your provider doesn't have to, but it's good customer service practice to make returning equipment as painless as possible. Ask for it if your ISP doesn't offer to send packing materials and cover the shipping cost. You may not get it, but it never hurts to ask. Pay the fees and any other outstanding charges. If you miss the return date, see if you can still send the equipment back and get the fee waived (it's not worth keeping the equipment as it likely won't be compatible with your new internet service). If not, or if you have other outstanding charges on the account, try to get them removed or make plans to pay. Failure to pay your account balance will likely hurt your credit score and make things harder to return to the provider down the road. 5. Set up your new service You can call customer service to sign up with your new ISP, but most providers let you sign up online. Some, including AT&T, Kinetic and Verizon Fios, run exclusive promotions only when you order online. Helpful tips on setting up your new service Come prepared. Have the internet plan and Wi-Fi setup (if applicable, some providers offer basic Wi-Fi and mesh systems Have the internet plan and Wi-Fi setup (if applicable, some providers offer basic Wi-Fi and See if self-installation is an option. Not only will it allow you to install equipment on your terms, self-installation is also often cheaper if not completely free. Not only will it allow you to install equipment on your terms, self-installation is also often cheaper if not completely free. Be prepared for potentially far-out install dates. If you decline self-install or it's not an option, don't be surprised if installation isn't available for a week or more after you place your order. Labor shortages and supply chain issues affect everyone. Cancellation details by ISP The process for canceling your internet service is pretty much the same with any internet provider, but there may be some minor differences between them. Below, you'll find those details, along with contact information for many providers. Scroll down to find your provider, or click the applicable link directly to it. Again, not every possible ISP is listed here, so yours may not be shown. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Astound internet Astound, formerly known as RCN, doesn't enforce contracts, which means no early termination fees. You will need to call Astound customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 800-427-8686 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: None Equipment return: By mail or in-person on the day of cancellation or before Fee for late or no return: Varies by device(s) Astound doesn't give an exact time frame for returning your equipment, only stating that customers should return rented internet devices "in a timely manner" the day of or before the cancellation date. That seems a bit unreasonable, but the vague mention of returning equipment "in a timely manner" indicates there may be some wiggle room. Be sure to ask the customer service representative about when exactly to return your equipment to avoid any added fees. You can drop your equipment off at a local Astound office but make sure when you're on the phone to cancel service you confirm whether or not that location will accept an equipment return. You also have the option of dropping the equipment off at a FedEx location. Astound will provide a prepaid shipping label -- all you have to do is find a FedEx to drop it off. For more information, visit Astound's equipment return policy page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel AT&T internet AT&T doesn't require a contract for internet, so you shouldn't have any early termination fees to worry about when you cancel. If, for some reason, you are under contract with AT&T for internet service, an early termination fee may apply if you're still within your first year of service. You may be able to cancel online if you have DSL service through AT&T, but all other customers, fiber and fixed wireless, will need to call AT&T customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 800-288-2020 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: Up to $180 Equipment return: By mail only, UPS or FedEx within 21 days Fee for late or no return: $150 AT&T makes it pretty easy to return your equipment. Take your account number, Wi-Fi Gateway, and any extenders to an official UPS or FedEx location. You don't even have to box it up. Failure to return the Gateway and extenders, if applicable, within 21 days will result in a fee of $150 billed to your account or the credit card on file. Visit AT&T's cancel service page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel CenturyLink internet CenturyLink doesn't require a contract with its DSL, nor does its fellow Lumen Technologies brand Quantum Fiber, so there are no early termination fees to expect when canceling. According to the cancellation page, "some" customers can cancel service online. Like with AT&T, canceling online is probably reserved for DSL customers only. For everything else, you'll need to call CenturyLink customer service or "Chat to Cancel." to cancel your internet. Customer service number: The correct number to call varies by location and CenturyLink makes it difficult to figure out how exactly to cancel your service. If you navigate to CenturyLink customer support you can scroll down to find a phone number for existing customers. There's also a "Chat now" option but that link wasn't working when we tried it out. Calling is your best option. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time Early termination fee: None Equipment return: By mail within 30 days of canceling Fee for late or no return: $200 CenturyLink will email a prepaid label to you, which you will have to print off. Don't have a printer? You can show the email to the employee at the UPS store where you're returning your equipment and they will print the label for you. Visit the CenturyLink cancel service page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Cox internet Cox doesn't "require" a contract, but if you want the lowest introductory rate on your internet plan, you may need to sign a one-year deal. Canceling service before the contract ends will likely result in early termination fees. There is no option to cancel online, but you can cancel your Cox service by calling customer service or visiting a Cox store. Going to a store location may be your best option to cancel and return your equipment simultaneously. Find a Cox store. Customer service number: 800-234-3993 Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Early termination fee: Up to $360 Equipment return: Drop off in-store or mail by UPS within 15 days Fee for late or no return: Up to$200 Cox has the highest potential early termination fees of nearly any non-satellite provider, but that's only if you have a promotional rate plus some other special offer (which Cox rarely runs) and then cancel immediately after the first 30 days. Most customers will see a max of $240, but the fee may be much lower if you cancel further into your contract. To return your equipment, you can go either to a Cox store near you or to a UPS store. You don't need a box or a shipping label. Visit the Cox cancel service page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel EarthLink internet All EarthLink internet plans come with a one-year contract. Canceling before the contract is up may result in an early termination fee. You will need to call EarthLink customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 888-327-8454 Hours: Seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET Early termination fee: Up to $200 Equipment return: By mail within 30 days of canceling. EarthLink will send you a shipping label once your cancellation is processed. Fee for late or no return: Varies, up to $400 EarthLink leases internet lines from several different providers, meaning connection type, speeds and, most importantly, in this case, the modem you need will vary depending on where you live. Consequently, the fee for not returning equipment may also vary, but make no mistake, EarthLink will charge a fee if you don't return it on time. Learn more at the EarthLink terms and conditions page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Frontier internet Frontier doesn't require a contract, so there are no early termination fees if you cancel at some point. You will need to call Frontier customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 866-786-6693 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: None Equipment return: By mail within 30 days of canceling service. Take to an official UPS store with the QR code provided by Frontier. Fee for late or no return: Up to $150 per device Judging by the cancel service page, canceling with Frontier may be a bit more difficult than with other providers. Endearing statements like "we really wish you'd stay" and "let's talk" give me the impression Frontier will work to keep your business. Nothing wrong with that, and totally understandable. Just be prepared for it when you call. On the plus side, you don't need a box or a shipping label when you drop your equipment off at a UPS store -- just the QR code Frontier texted or emailed when you canceled. Visit the Frontier cancel service page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Google Fiber internet Google Fiber does not require a contract and there are no fees for canceling your service. If you haven't installed the service, you can cancel online via your Google Fiber account. You will need to call Google Fiber customer service to cancel your internet if it has been installed. Customer service number: 888-837-4645 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: None Equipment return: In person at a Google Fiber Space or FedEx store within 60 days Fee for late or no return: Up to $280 for ONT device and router Once your cancellation is complete, you will receive a confirmation email with information on whether you have any equipment that needs to be returned and how to return it. Like other providers, you don't need a box or a label. You can drop the equipment off at a Google Fiber Space, a FedEx drop box location (with a prepaid shipping label) or a FedEx store. Visit the Google Fiber cancel service page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Hughesnet internet All Hughesnet plans come with a two-year contract and a potentially hefty fee for canceling service early. You will need to call Hughesnet customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 866-347-3292 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: Up to $400 Equipment return: By mail within 45 days Fee for late or no return: $300 Canceling with Hughesnet can be expensive, but if you're past the two-year mark, it doesn't have to cost you anything other than shipping costs. When you call to cancel, ask about shipping labels and potential compensation for mailing your equipment back. Hughesnet typically supplies a "return kit" with a box for all equipment, detailed instructions for removing your equipment, a cancellation letter, tape to seal the box and a pre-paid UPS return label. For more information about equipment return fees and ETFs, visit the Hughesnet service terms and conditions page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Kinetic internet Kinetic by Windstream requires no contract for internet service, so there are no early termination fees when you cancel. To cancel your Kinetic service, call the customer service number or visit a local Kinetic store location. Find a Kinetic store here. Customer service number: 800-347-1991 Hours: Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET. Early termination fee: None Equipment return: Call customer service for details. Fee for late or no return: Up to $100 but call customer service for details. Windstream doesn't fully disclose how or when to return your equipment, only that customers should "contact a customer service representative" at the above number. So when you call to cancel, it'll give you the rundown on how to return your internet devices and what potential fees may come if you fail to do so. For more contact information, visit the Kinetic customer support page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Mediacom internet Mediacom contracts vary by plan and location, but most customers will have to sign a one-year contract when signing up for Mediacom internet. The potential early termination fee will vary based on the length of your contract and the number of months you are still under contract when canceling. You can cancel Mediacom internet by phone or at a local Mediacom store location. Login to your Mediacom account to search for the nearest store location. Customer service number: 855-633-4226 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: Up to $240 with two- and three-year agreements, $120 with one-year agreement Equipment return: By mail or in person at a store location. Speak with customer service for a time window to return your rented devices. Fee for late or no return: Call customer service for details. Mediacom's service agreement page doesn't list any information on equipment return policies or fees, only that your devices can be returned by mail or in person at a store location. The customer service representative will tell you what to do with your modem/router when you cancel, but if not, be sure to ask. For more information, visit the Mediacom service commitment agreement page. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Optimum internet Optimum does not require a contract for home internet service and there are no early termination fees. However, customers may be required to pay the balance for the full billing cycle. You will need to call to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 866-347-4784 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: Full billing cycle Equipment return: "Promptly" by mail or in person at a store location. Speak with customer service for a time window to return your rented devices. Fee for late or no return: Call customer service for details. Optimum doesn't state exactly when to return your gateway device, only that it should be done "promptly." Additionally, there is no indication of what the fee is if you fail to "promptly" return your device, the terms of service only state that "Optimum may impose a charge for unreturned Equipment to be determined in accordance with Optimum's then current schedule of charges." You will have to supply your own box, make sure you add a copy of your Optimum bill with your information and account number on it. Optimum will supply a pre-paid label that you can print or bring to a Walgreens or FedEx location. For more information visit the Optimum terms of service Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Spectrum internet Spectrum does not require a contract and does not charge early termination fees. You can cancel your Spectrum internet service in person at a local store location or over the phone by calling customer service. Find a Spectrum store location near you. Customer service number: 833-267-6094 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: None Equipment return: By mail UPS or FedEx or in person at a Spectrum store location Fee for late or no return: Call customer service for details. Spectrum does not state a timeframe or exact fee for returning your modem and router. Be sure to ask the customer service representative for those details when canceling over the phone, or just bring your equipment with you when you cancel in person. While you can easily return your equipment by bringing your modem or router to a Spectrum store, you can also drop equipment off at a UPS store or request a return kit. Visit the Spectrum cancel service page. How to cancel Starlink service Canceling your Starlink service is a slightly easier process. You can cancel online by logging into your Starlink account. Your equipment is due within 30 days of cancellation. Starlink issues a pre-paid shipping label and instructions for returning equipment upon cancellation. The new Verizon logo. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Verizon internet Verizon internet does not require a contract, so there are no early termination fees when canceling your service. You will need to call Verizon customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 844-837-2262 Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early termination fee: None Equipment return: By mail within 30 days of canceling service Fee for late or no return: Varies by device, up to $210 or more Verizon is protective of its equipment. Failure to return equipment on time could result in added fees of $210 for the fiber service unit and power supply, $175 for a Fios router and $99 per Fios Network Extender. Get that equipment in on time. For both Verizon 5G Home Internet and Verizon Fios, you'll have to bring your equipment to a UPS store -- no need for a box or label. Visit Verizon's equipment return page for more information. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Viasat internet Viasat plans require a two-year contract. Canceling early will result in an early termination fee. The exact amount of your fee will depend on the number of remaining months in your contract. You will need to call Viasat customer service to cancel your internet. Customer service number: 855-463-9333 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: $15 for each month remaining on your contract, up to $360 Equipment return: By mail within 60 days, recently updated from 30 days Fee for late or no return: Up to $300 Viasat recently updated its deadline to return your equipment from 30 days to 60 days. Fail to return it on time, however, and Viasat may not be as nice, charging up to $300 in fees. Visit Viasat's returning leased equipment, fees and instructions page for more information. Sarah Tew/CNET How to cancel Xfinity internet Xfinity is different from most providers in that service may come with a contract in some locations to qualify for the lowest introductory pricing, whereas other locations will require no contract at all. If you are under contract, be aware of where you are in that contract before canceling as early termination fees will apply. Xfinity gives you a few options when it comes to canceling. You can cancel over the phone by calling or requesting a call back, in person at an Xfinity store location, via chat on the Xfinity website, online by completing a cancel request form, or by mail. Find an Xfinity store location. Customer service number: 800-934-6489 Hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week Early termination fee: $10 for each remaining month on your contract, up to $230 Equipment return: By UPS prepaid pickup or dropoff at a UPS location, or in person at an Xfinity location Fee for late or no return: Varies by equipment, up to $300 or more Xfinity doesn't state online when you need to return your equipment by, and the fee for late or unreturned items may vary by the devices you have. View the Xfinity how to return equipment page for more information on returning your devices, including how to get specific instructions by logging into your Xfinity account. Visit the Xfinity cancel service page. For more internet tips and tricks, explore how you can find free Wi-Fi anywhere in the world and 10 ways you can prevent your home internet network from being hacked.
