Frequently Asked Questions High Speed Internet: DSL Cable Satellite Wireless

What is high speed internet access?
High speed internet access, which is also known as broadband internet, is a way of connecting to the internet at a much faster speed compared to dial up internet. High speed internet is also more reliable than dial up connections. On the Internet Service Deals web site we define High Speed to include DSL, Cable, Satellite and Wireless internet access services.

Is broadband internet the same as high speed internet?
Yes. These are both terms for the same technology.

How does high speed internet work?
With high speed, your computer is connected to the internet through a modem which eventually reaches a fiber-optic network. Generally, this same network can also be used to provide other services, such as telephone and cable services.

What types of high speed internet access are available?
While there are a number of high speed internet services available, the most common are Cable, DSL, Wireless and Satellite.

How fast is high speed internet?
The speed of the internet connection varies depending on the type of service and other factors. With DSL for example, the maximum speed possible depends on the distance between the user and the Central Office. Generally, a user can expect speeds that are around 50 times faster than they experience with a dial up internet. DSL speeds are often quoted between 786 Kbps and 6 Mbps. Cable internet can generate the same speeds and sometimes faster than DSL, which means speeds above 6 Mbps are available in some cable service areas. Satellite internet service is not quite as fast as DSL or Cable. The average Satellite internet download speed is around 500 Kbps, however, services and speeds are improving.

Do I need a second phone line if I have high speed internet?
No. Many dial up customers have two phone lines so that they can use the internet while also having phone access. With any high speed internet service, you can use the internet without tying up your phone line.

What is the difference between upstream and downstream speeds?
Downstream speeds refer to how fast information travels to the computer, such as when downloading a file. Upstream speeds refer to how fast information travels from the computer, such as when sending an email attachment. High speed internet services often have different upstream and downstream speeds because the ISP reserves a larger portion of bandwidth for downstream activity since that's what customers use most often.

Will I need a separate Internet Service Provider (ISP) with high speed internet service?
No. All of the high speed internet services provide email and other web based internet services. Of course, you can always keep your current email service as long as you remain a subscriber (pay monthly) to their services.

Will I be able to use my high speed internet while I'm traveling?
No. Your high speed internet is not portable (except cell phone like wireless which is portable). However, many service providers do offer a free or reduced price dial up service that subscribers can use while they travel. A few offer free or discount hot spot use, and many hotels, airports, and restaurants now offer high speed internet services for travelers.

How do I place an order for high speed internet service through this site?
You need to use the available special offer links to enter your telephone number and address into any check availability tools to determine if high speed internet is available in your location. The check availability tools will list your options along with information about any special offers. Please do not call or email our office, we can do no more than enter your information into the links as you would online. If you decide to order internet service through one of the providers, please print and save a copy of your purchase receipt. Your receipt along with your confirmation emails and installation kit will include important telephone numbers for you to call for technical support and any billing questions.

How accurate are the internet service availability checks?
The high speed internet check availability tools are linked to the internet service providers. We rely on the internet service providers to provide the most accurate check availability information, plans, prices, and promotions. The check availability tools are expected to be about 95% accurate. If you believe service is available to you but you do not qualify with our tools, please call the internet service provider directly.

I looked up service for high speed internet and it says service is not available, but when I look at the provider web site service is available, why?
It's possible that the service is determined to be "unconfirmed." This happens to customers who reside within the internet service providers service area but exact serviceability cannot be determined. In such cases you will need to order through the provider directly.

Where is high speed internet service available?
High speed internet availability varies and it is growing. Those who do not qualify today may qualify months from now. To determine high speed internet service availability, you need to enter your phone number and address into the ordering tools. If no providers are currently available in your area, you should check back once every few months.

How much does high speed internet service cost?
The monthly fees associated with high speed internet vary depending on the type of service and the internet service provider that you select. Prices can range from $14.95 per month to $59.99 per month. Besides the monthly fees, you may also have to pay a equipment rental fees for a modem and optional services. Please read the Terms and Conditions and any special offer details as they are presented to you by the providers.

What is a monthly fee?
The monthly fee is the amount that you are charged per month for the high speed internet service that you select. Your bill may also include modem rental, optional fees, and appropriate taxes. You will be billed by your provider, not InternetServiceDeals.com. We are a free to use web site.

What is an installation fee?
If you do not select the self installation option, most high speed internet service providers will charge to have a technician come to your home for installation. Installation fees vary depending on the service provider and the type of high speed internet being installed (DSL, Cable, Wireless, Satellite).

What is a set up fee?
A set up fee is a one time charge from the internet service provider which covers the cost of activating the internet service. Not all internet service providers charge a set up fee.

Do you share my contact information even if I do not order?
No. InternetServiceDeals.com does not store or have access to your information. The internet service providers use the information to determine high speed internet service availability in your area. For more information, please read our Privacy Policy.

Does it cost extra to order high speed internet through this site?
No. The services we provide are free to you. All of the fees related to your high speed internet service will be billed by and paid to your service provider. Any billing disputes likewise are between you and your service provider. Please print and save a copy of your online purchase receipts.

What happens after I place an order for high speed internet service through this site?
You will receive a confirmation email from the provider that will include details about your high speed internet service plan and instructions for how to set up an installation time if necessary. A representative of the provider will get in touch with you to discuss your order further if necessary.

Who do I call in order to follow up on my high speed internet order?
After you have submitted the online order form, you will be taken to a confirmation page. You should print this page for your records because it will contain contact information for your service provider if you need to follow up with them.

Is a credit card required to order internet services?
Hughesnet and Earthlink are the only 2 providers we know of that require a credit card. Most internet service providers will mail a monthly bill or add charges to your existing monthly bill similar to a telephone or cable bill.

I placed an order 4 days ago and haven't heard anything what do I do?
It can take up to 5 days for the order to be processed online, but you should have received an order confirmation email and should be just waiting for a representative to contact you for installation if needed. If this is not the case, you will need to contact the provider using the numbers given to you on your receipt.

I called the service provider and they could not find the order. What should I do?
Please call the number directed on the order confirmation page, your receipt, or confirmation email. Many of the internet service providers use multiple call centers. These call centers have different systems and some may not be able to view orders submitted recently online. Once you receive your first monthly bill from the provider, you can then call the local customer support and billing numbers as your normally would.

Do you guarantee the high speed internet services I order?
No. We are InternetServiceDeals.com a free to use website. We are not the internet service provider so we cannot guarantee their services. If you are disappointed with a service or if you have questions regarding your order, please contact your internet service provider directly. Print and save your receipts as you would any online or offline purchase.

Is there a money back guarantee on my service?
We do not offer a money back guarantee on your high speed internet services. However, some internet service providers do guarantee their services for new customers. Please read the provider's terms of service carefully to learn more about any available high speed internet service guarantees.

Where do I get customer support for my internet service?
Your high speed internet service should be the same as any other customer for your provider of choice. You will need to contact your internet service provider directly for customer support, technical support, cancellation and refund policy inquiries.

Who can assist me if I have technical support questions?
If you already have high speed internet service, please contact your internet service provider with technical support questions.

Can I cancel my high speed internet order?
If you decide to cancel your order, you will need to contact the internet service provider directly using the information on your confirmation page, purchase receipt, or installation kit. As a last resort, we have listed some cancellation telephone numbers.

What is the cancellation process for services for each provider?
The cancellation process varies by internet service provider. Please contact the internet service provider's cancellation department directly. Contact information is available on your purchase receipt, confirmation email, installation kit, or monthly billing statement. We can not cancel your services for you so please do not call our office or email cancellation request to us. InternetServiceDeals.com never has access to your internet service account information.

How can I cancel my service if I'm not satisfied?
If you decide to cancel your service, you will need to contact the service provider directly using the information on your purchase receipt, email confirmation, installation kit, or your monthly billing statement. You should be aware that if you cancel before the end of any specified contract periods, you may incur additional fees.

What does the term "cancellation details" mean?
If you enter into a service agreement with an internet service provider and you cancel before the end of that agreement, then you may incur additional fees. Please be sure to read any special offer terms of service and agreements carefully so that you will be aware of any cancellation fees or cancellation restrictions that may apply.

What does "terms of service" mean?
The terms of service are additional limitations and information that you should read over carefully before purchasing service through any internet service provider. Generally, the terms of service will include cancellation details, monthly fees, and other important information.

How long do high speed internet installations take?
Professional installation times vary depending on the type of high speed internet service you purchase and the service provider you are working with, as well as a number of other factors. Professional installation generally takes 10-14 days after the order is submitted. Once you sign up for internet service, you will receive instructions on how to contact the internet service provider to set up an installation date and time. Self installation kits are sent through the mail once the internet service provider has processed your order.

Can I use my existing modem for high speed internet service?
You may be able to use your existing DSL, cable, or satellite modem if it is approved for the type of service you select and if it is approved by your internet service provider. However, you can not use a dial up modem to receive high speed internet service because the signals and the wiring required are different. You should contact your internet service provider to ask about whether or not you can continue to use your existing modem with their service.

What other equipment do I need for high speed internet?
Depending on the type of service you select (DSL, cable, wireless, satellite), your equipment needs will vary. Generally, the internet service provider will be able to tell you what equipment is necessary for the installation. Some items, such as the modem, may be available for rental through the service provider.

How much does the equipment cost?
Equipment costs vary depending on the internet service you select (DSL, cable, wireless, satellite). Such costs should be listed for your review prior to online purchase. If you contact your internet service provider to set up an installation appointment, you can also ask them what hardware you will need and how much it will cost.

Can I attach a server to the network?
That depends on your internet service plan. Residential customers are generally not allowed to connect servers to the network because residential service is designed for casual users, not business users. Some business plans do allow for the use of servers. If you have specific questions about whether or not you can use a server with your plan, please contact your internet service provider directly.

Can I connect multiple computers to my high speed internet?
Yes. You can connect multiple computers in your home to the same high speed internet connection. However, if you need a separate IP address for the additional computers, then you will need to pay an extra fee in most cases. If you don't know what an IP address is and just want to connect a few computers in your home, you are probably ok. However, you can learn more about setting up a network in your home by talking to your internet service provider or picking up a book at your local book store.

— Internet Service Deals

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