It is certainly no secret that most people on the planet are online. The numbers will blow your mind. According to extensive research conducted, there are approximately 4.9 billion active internet users globally. That’s about 62% of the world’s total population. You realize how vital it is to be online daily, but the cost of using the internet can run up some hefty bills. In the meantime, you have great options to keep you online and help you stay within your budget, and the experts are weighing in.
1. Purchase A Modem/Router
That’s right. You can own your stuff, including a modem and router. Most users rent their modem and router from their internet provider, but you can purchase these essential, hardware gadgets and save some money.
For example, you can buy a modem/router combination from a good brand name at about $200 to $250. If you’re renting the modem and router, your provider generally charges about $20 monthly. In the long run, however, purchasing these two devices is cost-effective.
You can’t do without either because the modem delivers internet service into the home while the router provides the internet to the devices in your home via WiFi or an Ethernet cable.
2. Choose an Affordable Internet Service
One of the most effective ways of staying online but not breaking the bank is by choosing the best affordable internet options out there, and it exists. You can find affordability and speed with internet providers who don’t charge exorbitant prices just to deliver the service you need and expect.
Of course, availability and pricing are always subject to your location, but there are a number of excellent plans to consider that boast high customer ratings and give you the performance you desire. There are some good perks if you order cheap internet online such as getting the installation costs waived or signing up for auto-pay so that you can save an extra $10 a month.
Also, there are a variety of fiber and cable plans you can choose from to fit your budget. When it comes to cable plans with 50 Mbps, experts say that these are best for individuals and families with more limited usage.
3. Negotiate With Your Provider
There are no guarantees that this would work, but it doesn’t hurt to try and hammer out a better deal with your current internet provider. Before you make a call, ensure that you’re up on the internet service provider plans being offered by competitors so that you have your facts straight and can try and negotiate a decent plan.
Tell your provider that you would like a similar cheap internet deal that they offer in promos to new customers. Or inform them that you may reluctantly have to leave because you have found a more budget-friendly plan that another provider is offering.
If you have a cable TV plan, you can usually bundle to save money by linking your internet service, but be wary of fast-talking salespeople. You can get fooled into adding extra speed or more channels that will eventually increase in price over time and you’re back at the beginning and in the hole.
4. Apply For An Internet Subsidy
Did you know that the government has subsidies for broadband internet if you fall under a certain income threshold or are enrolled in specific government programs? Check out the national nonprofit known as EveryoneOn. It can help you find out if you qualify for the subsidy in your area.
For instance, the Affordable Connectivity Program is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that provides a temporary $30 subsidy on monthly broadband (internet service) bills for qualifying low-income households. You can begin by entering your zip code on the application form.
EveryoneOn works with cable and wireless internet service providers (ISP) to deliver affordable internet solutions to low-income households, usually priced between $10 to $20 per month.
Conclusion
There’s no law that says you have to remain with the same ISP forever. It’s okay to make a switch and lock in amazing internet options to fit your budget and keep you online as a whopping 93% of Americans are currently doing. Follow the expert advice above, and good luck!
