Things to Check Before Choosing a Broadband Provider
A comprehensive checklist of crucial factors to consider before committing to a broadband provider, from uptime and customer service to installation process and billing transparency.
- Verify service and technology type (Fiber, Cable, DSL) at your specific address.
- Calculate the true total cost, including GST and all one-time fees.
- Investigate local reputation by asking neighbors about uptime and customer service.
- Understand the contract terms, especially for long-term plans with lock-in periods.
Your Pre-Purchase Checklist
Choosing a broadband plan is a long-term commitment. While comparing speed and price is important, several other factors determine your overall satisfaction. Use this checklist to evaluate providers and avoid common pitfalls.
1. Service Availability and Technology
First and foremost, confirm which providers service your exact address. Don't just rely on a general city-wide check. Then, identify the technology they offer: is it Fiber (FTTH), Cable, or DSL? Always prioritize Fiber for the best performance.
2. True Cost and Billing Transparency
Look beyond the monthly rental. Ask for a complete breakdown of all costs:
- Monthly Rental + 18% GST
- One-time Installation/Activation Charges
- Router Security Deposit (is it refundable?)
- Any other hidden fees
3. Plan Details: Speed and Data
Ensure the plan meets your needs. For speed, check both download and upload speeds. For data, confirm the Fair Usage Policy (FUP) limit on unlimited plans and, crucially, the speed you'll get after the FUP is reached.
4. Local Reputation and Customer Service
A provider's national reputation can differ from its local performance. This is the most underrated but important step.
- Ask Your Neighbors: Talk to people in your building or on your street. Who is their provider? Are they happy with the uptime and speed?
- Check Local Forums: Look for local online communities or forums (like on Reddit or Facebook) where people discuss ISPs in your area.
- Service Outage History: How quickly does the provider resolve issues in your locality?
5. Installation Process and Timeline
Ask about the installation process. How soon can they install it after you place an order? Do they provide a firm appointment time? A professional and timely installation process is a good indicator of overall service quality.
6. Contract Terms and Lock-in Periods
Understand the contract. If you opt for a long-term plan (3, 6, or 12 months) to save money, be aware of the total commitment and any penalties for early cancellation. If you might move soon, a monthly plan might be safer, even if it costs a bit more.
