Comparison of Cox to Qwest Broadband

Cox offers Internet service at four speeds. The Essential Internet has download speeds of up to 3 megabytes per second (Mbps). The Preferred speed is up to 18 Mbps. The Premier service has download speeds of up to 27 Mbps and the Ultimate Internet service has speeds of up to 55 Mbps. Qwest broadband Internet is available at five different speeds. The Start-Up speed is 1.5 Mbps, while the Essential speed is 7 Mbps. Advanced Internet service can download at up to 12 Mbps and the Extreme service can download at 20 Mbps. The fastest speed, Pro, has a download rate of up to 40 Mbps.

Cox Internet service also comes with added features. All of the Internet speed choices come with McAfee computer protection software, 10 email addresses and online learning sponsored by Nickelodeon and Rhapsody. Each package except the Essential also includes online media storage. Qwest broadband Internet features include self-installation, a homepage at the MyQwest website, computer protection from Norton Antivirus Online and technical support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Installing Internet service or having it installed requires certain equipment. To get Cox Internet, you must have a cable wall outlet installed in your home. Cox technicians will be able to install one if you do not have one. You will also need a router that is either wired or wireless, a cable modem and Ethernet and coaxial cables. Qwest broadband Internet is installed by connecting to a telephone jack, so you will need one installed in your house. Qwest service also requires a modem, connection cables and telephone jack filters.

Cox offers its Internet service in three different bundles. The Classic bundle includes Essential Internet along with Advanced TV and unlimited calling to local numbers. The Select bundle includes Preferred Internet service bundled with Advanced TV and unlimited local calling. The Premium bundle includes Preferred Internet, Advanced TV with one premium channel and unlimited local calling with additional features including call waiting. Qwest has three different bundles that include Internet service, as well as the ability to bundle Internet with any of its other services in your own, customized bundle. The Triple Savings Bundle includes Start-Up Internet, DirectTV and phone service. The 7 Mbps bundle includes Essential Internet and phone service, while the 1.5 Mbps bundle includes Start-Up Internet and phone service.