These days, it seems like there are millions of different high-speed Internet plans available (especially when you compare plans on WhiteFence!). With so many options on the market, comparing them all can be a little tricky.
It would be easy to just pick the cheapest Internet plan out there, but remember, there's probably a reason it's the cheapest. Every plan has a different combination of features, so it takes a little research to figure out which plan best meets all of your needs. However, whether you're looking DSL, satellite, fiber-optic or cable Internet, the features that really matter apply across the board.
Here's a quick rundown of the features to keep an eye out when you're comparing broadband plans:
- Speed – This is the most important consideration. Your download speed will determine how fast Web pages will load, how well videos stream, etc. If you're not sure what speed you need, check out this awesome video.
Also, it's important to take into account not just the download speed, but the upload speed, as well. A slow upload speed can be a deal-breaker, especially for gamers.
- Support – Even the geekiest of us occasionally require some assistance when it comes to our Internet connection. Not all Internet support is the same, though. Check whether the provider you're looking at offers the kind of support you desire at the times of day you think you might need it.
Continue reading "The High-Speed Internet Features That Really Matter" »
A few months ago we started to do a feature on the blog that highlights different cities around the country, and the deals that people can find. The idea is that anyone moving to or currently living in these locations can get better deals that help them to save on their home services like home phone, TV and Internet.
For this week's feature, we're going to be taking a look at the great city of Baltimore, home of the Orioles, the Ravens and the Washington Monument. Check out the list below to see a list of the best deals in the area!
Continue reading "City Highlight: Moving to Baltimore" »
Earlier this year when I explained how to set up a wireless network, I urged you to set up a password and consider additional security measures. After all, what's the point of ordering a smoking-fast broadband package if all the neighborhood kids are hijacking your signal and slowing everything to a crawl with their blasted Justin Bieber music videos?
With that in mind, I thought I'd get a little more in-depth on wireless security today and give you a list of basic precautions you can take along with some more advanced pro-tips that can help keep your Internet service Bieber-free (unless you're into that sort of thing, which is totally okay).
- Lock down your router – Your router and wireless network both have passwords. To change your network's settings, you need to log in to your router. To keep anyone else from changing your network settings, you need to protect your router. Check your instruction manual to learn how to log in to make changes. Usually, you simply enter a URL into your browser and enter the default user-name and password to gain access
If for some reason you have lost your router instructions, check out this site and you should easily be able to find out what URL to type and what the default user-name and password for your router is. Once in, make sure you give your router a new user-name and password. Stay logged in, as we'll be making the rest of the changes from here, too.
Continue reading "How to Secure Your Wireless Network" »