Are you searching for a new broadband connection provider in your area? We understand that this could be a difficult job with so many options and factors to consider while choosing an internet service provider. If you're a high internet user with a heavy streaming load, choosing an unlimited broadband option could work. On the other hand, you could select a moderate package to avoid running up extra costs. Alternatively, for the most common requirements, such as checking emails, paying expenses, etc., go for low-cost, no-frills, packages. Today's internet service providers provide a wide variety of link rights.

If you're ordering broadband for the first time or considering switching providers, our helpful buyers guide below outlines the main factors you need to consider when comparing broadband packages. Choosing an internet service provider is one of the most confusing buying decisions that a lot of people have to make. Making this decision has gotten harder in recent times with the increase in service providers and internet usage.

To kick off however, we thought it would be useful to provide some context information on broadband connectivity and use in India.

How to Purchase a Broadband Connection?

Finding and installing an Internet service in your area can be a frustrating process. That's why we've compiled this Internet Service Shopping Guide. Follow the steps below if you need the Internet to be built in your home if you're confused about where to start. 

The articles listed here have been designed to clarify the basics so that you can compare your choices and make an informed decision.

1. Understand your Internet Usage
   The very first step to buying a broadband for your home is understanding your internet usage. List down the activities that you use internet services for and the amount of data they consume. The below table should help in giving a brief idea of internet speed, data and your usage.
   
   

2. List out the top providers and their plans
   Speak to your neighbours to find out the most used internet service provider in your area. Chances are that the most used internet service provider has the best customer service in your area. Create a list of 4-5 internet service providers in your locality and list down their plans and tariff basis your internet usage.
   
    

3. Compare the offers
   After making a list of the top 4-5 internet service providers in your locality, lookout for offers that each of these providers are offering. Most ISPs have offers on their full time plans.
   
    

4. Run a speed test
   After purchasing your internet plan, do run an internet speed test to check the speed test results that your ISP is delivering. You can check your internet speed on ookla speed test. Know more about speed test results here.

Buying an ISP: Choosing the Right Technology

When choosing an internet connection for your home or business, you will come across quite a few types of connections - cable internet, DSL connections, Fiber optic internet connections. It is common to get confused between these and have difficulty in choosing the right connection type for you. In this article, we will be outlining the key differences and the factors you need to keep in mind while picking one type over another.

Direct Subscriber Line (DSL):

DSL is an internet connection where data is transmitted over telephone lines. Telephone lines are made of copper, while copper is a great conductor, a DSL connection cannot move data as fast as a cable or fibernet internet connection. One crucial factor that will affect your decision on DSL is the distance between your home and the telephone provider’s office. This means that the farther you are from the main line, the weaker the signal, and the slower the internet connection.

Cable:

Cable internet connections run on telephone lines which use coaxial cables to transmit data, and these can carry more bandwidth than a direct subscriber line connection. When compared to DSL, a cable connection’s connectivity does not depend on the distance. However, unlike a DSL connection, which is a dedicated telephone line, cable connections are usually shared among users. This would mean that the bandwidth gets divided among users, also a lesser secure option. In terms of speed, cable connections are 3 to 4 times faster than DSL and provide speeds to 10-50 Mbps usually.

Fibernet:

Fiber optic cables are the latest technology in the internet service business. These connections make use of fiber optic cables which transmit data at the speed of light. Unlike cable or DSL, the transmission happens over glass and this is immune to all interferences. There are two broad types of fiber connections - direct internet access (DIA) and a fibernet broadband. Direct internet access is an option more commonly used by businesses as it is a dedicated internet line that provides more security and reliability of connectivity. Fibernet broadband is used by individuals at homes. Fibernet speeds range from 150 Mbps to 1000 Mbps.

Buying an ISP: How Much Speed Do You Need?

Internet speeds in the 100–200 Mbps range are considered to be good, as they can handle common uses such as streaming and video chat for 2–5 users at once. Speeds above 200 Mbps and up to 1,000 Mbps are considered to be faster than normal and can be shared by five or more users. 

Internet speeds above 100 Mbps are considered to be good for daily use. However, aspects such as upload speed and latency should also be considered for use in cases such as home offices and gaming, where upload efficiency for files and response time for user experience are especially relevant. 

The average WiFi speed you encounter across your home will usually be anywhere from 20–50 percent below the announced maximum download speed due to wireless interference and fade as you move further away from the router.

Still wondering how much speed you need? Below are some general download speed based on everyday online activities:

• Browse the web and check email: 1-5 Mbps 

• Stream HD content: 15-25 Mbps 

• Stream 4K content and play competitive online games: 40-100 Mbps 

• Stream 4K content, play online games, and download very large files: 200+ Mbps

How Much Internet Speed Do You Need to Work from Home?

As millions of Indians move to work from their homes, many wonder if their internet access is up to the challenge. Good news is that many of the popular applications that you can use for work may not require a very fast connection, including items like working in Google Docs, sending emails, and even taking part in voice-based meetings. 

That said, video chatting or other "high-bandwidth" applications can require faster connections, particularly if multiple people in your home are trying to access them. As a general guideline, we suggest a link that supports at least 50 Mbps of download and 50 Mbps of upload to keep your entire family connected to the internet.

How Much Internet Speed Do You Need for Netflix?

In general, streaming video on websites such as Netflix or YouTube TV needs 5 Mbps to stream to standard resolutions. 

If you want to stream to 4k Ultra HD, you'll need a minimum of 25 Mbps. However, even one 4k HD video streaming will use all of your usable bandwidth. For this reason, if you like high-definition video and you have more than one computer connected at a time, we suggest a bandwidth of 50 Mbps or more.

How Much Internet Speed Do You Need for Gaming?

Minimum internet speed requirements for gaming are typically 10 Mbps if no one else in the house uses your bandwidth. Unfortunately, slower internet plans such as these can not offer you the pace of upload you need for consistently good experience. 

If you're the only one at home, a 25 Mbps internet plan is recommended for smooth gaming. However, pace is not the only thing that matters in gaming: ping and latency play a role as well. We recommend purchasing a 100 Mbps internet plan for a smooth gaming experience.

Buying an ISP: Bundled Services vs only Broadband

With users’ evolving needs and internet usage, internet service providers have begun to offer bundled services with streaming, gaming, etc to ensure that their users have a complete internet experience.

When purchasing an ISP, it is always recommended that you opt for bundled services based on your usage. For example, ACT Fibernet offers added services for streaming and gaming to its users.

1. Streaming Bundle - 

Streaming Device - ACT Fibernet offers a streaming device to it’s users on rent or for purchase. ACT Stream TV 4K is an Android based device that lets you watch movies and TV shows in 4K HDR and with Dolby Atmos sound. The device is loaded with content from apps like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, Zee5 and many other apps that you can download from the Android TV Play store. It allows an easy switch between your on-demand content and TV channels, providing you with wholesome entertainment experience.

 

2. Gaming Booster Packs - The ACT Gaming Booster packs include two gaming boosts: Speed Boost and Data Boost. Under the Basic one month plan, users get 300Mbps of boosted speed for three hours since activation. This plan can be activated five times a month. Users also get 200GB of extra data for the month. Under the Ultra six month plan, users get 300Mbps of high speed data 10 times a month for five hours per activation. This plan gives users 1,800GB of extra data added to their FUP for six months.

Buying an ISP: Contract Length

1. Cheaper Pricing: When you purchase an Internet service, many internet service providers will offer you a cheaper price if you sign a 1–2 year contract. For example: ACT Fibernet offers two to four months of internet service free on the12 month plans (basis city). 
   
    

2. Free Installation: Many service providers charge an installation fee on their plans. However, these charges are waived off when you choose longer term plans. ACT Fibernet offer installation fee waivers* on someof their long term plans - 6 months and 12 months.
   
    

3. Free Routers: You have to decide which router to purchase before you can connect to a new modem. It's an investment that should hopefully last more than a year or two to pay for itself, so you should have a clear understanding of how modems operate and what the requirements are. It's easy to find out your ISP's requirements: just search their site for a list of modems that are compatible with their service. ACT Fibernet offers its users a free router* on some purchase of 6 months and 12 months plans.
   
    

4. Additional Offers: In addition to the other benefits, many ISPs have started offering offers on streaming apps as well. ACT Fibernet has partnered with many entertainment providers to pass on the benefits to their customers in terms of cashbacks, discounts and a hassle free transaction. These partners are Zee5, Hungama play, Sony Liv and Aha. 

If you still have queries on purchasing a broadband service, you can refer to our resources on internet speed and connections to know more.