In 2019, I moved to the state where Liberty Bell still chimes. Being a freelancer, it was essential for me to find the most dependable internet service provider (ISP) in my area. So, I got out to hunt.
In my search to find the perfect ISP for my needs, I switched over four ISPs and then finally settled with Kinetic by Windstream because of its fiber-powered connectivity, affordability, and contract & data-caps-free internet plans.
The journey was pretty turbulent and I want to save you from that hassle. So, join me as I unfold how you should go about finding the right ISP for your home in Pennsylvania.
JUMP TO:
1. Determine Your Internet Needs
2. Explore Available ISPs in Your Area
4. Consider Customer Service and Reliability
5. Check for Promotions and Contract Terms
1. Determine Your Internet Needs
The first step in choosing an internet provider is understanding what internet speeds you need from your connection.
Are you streaming movies, playing online games, or working from home, OR is it all three?
The number of people using the internet in your household and the types of activities you engage in will also determine the speed and bandwidth you require. For instance, if you have a family that enjoys streaming in HD or playing games online, you'll need higher speeds compared to someone who only browses the web and checks emails.
It's also important to think ahead. If you plan on adding more devices to your home or if your work-from-home needs are demanding, opting for an internet plan that offers a bit more bandwidth could save you from needing an upgrade later.
Internet availability can vary greatly depending on where you live in Pennsylvania.
Urban areas like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia tend to have more options, including high-speed fiber connections from providers like Windstream, Verizon Fios, and Xfinity.
In contrast, rural areas might rely more on satellite or DSL options. Start by checking which providers service your specific zip code. This can be done easily online through various ISP websites or comparison tools.
Understanding the type of internet connection available in your area is also crucial. Fiber offers the fastest speeds but might not be available everywhere. Cable is widely available and provides good speeds, while DSL and satellite are often slower but more accessible in remote areas.
In recent years, 5G home internet has also emerged as a viable option, offering decent speeds without the need for traditional wired connections.
Once you know what's available in your area, the next step is to compare the plans offered by different providers. Balance your need for speed with your budget.
For example, in Pennsylvania, Xfinity offers speeds up to 2 Gbps (Disclaimer: speeds and availability may vary), but that might be more than you need (or want to pay for) if you're just browsing the web or streaming the occasional show.
Be aware of additional costs that might not be immediately obvious. These can include equipment rental fees, installation charges, or even early termination fees if you decide to switch providers before your contract ends. Make sure to read the fine print before committing to a plan.
4. Consider Customer Service and Reliability
A fast connection is great, but it won't do you much good if your provider’s service is unreliable or if you can’t get help when you need it.
Customer service is a critical factor to consider. Look up reviews from other users in Pennsylvania to see how satisfied they are with their provider’s service. Companies like Verizon Fios often receive high marks for reliability, but it’s always good to do your research.
Talking to neighbors or reading local online forums can give you a clearer picture of what to expect from different providers in your area.
5. Check for Promotions and Contract Terms
Internet providers frequently offer promotions, such as discounted rates for the first year or free installation. These deals can be appealing, but it’s important to understand the long-term costs as well.
After the promotional period ends, prices can rise significantly. Make sure you're comfortable with the standard rate you’ll pay after any promotions expire.
Also, take a close look at the contract terms. Some providers require you to sign a contract for a year or more, with penalties if you cancel early. If you’re not sure about your long-term plans, you might prefer a provider that offers month-to-month service with no contract.
Choosing the right internet provider in Pennsylvania involves a bit of research, but the effort is worth it.
To wrap things up, I found a great thread on Reddit in which you can read unbiased reviews from actual users before jumping headfirst into buying the service. The thread is specifically for people living in Pennsylvania. Just skip it if you are moving away from Pennsylvania or reside in a different state.
