Signing Up for Internet and Cable TV Service: A First-Time User’s Guide

Choosing the right Internet and cable TV service is more than just making a quick decision — it’s about shaping your everyday routine. From staying connected with loved ones to enjoying your favorite shows, the right service can make all the difference in your daily life.

With so many options out there, finding a plan that fits your needs and budget can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry — by taking a few practical steps from the guide below, you can easily navigate your options and make a choice that keeps you connected and entertained. Let’s get started on finding the perfect service for you.

Understand Your Needs

Before diving into the search for providers, it’s crucial to take a step back and assess your specific needs. By identifying what’s most important to you — be it higher speeds, more channels, amount of data, or overall costs — you can narrow down your options and focus on finding a plan that truly fits your lifestyle.

Assess Your Internet Usage

Your Internet usage plays a significant role in determining what type of plan you need. Here are some questions to consider:

• What kind of online activities do you engage in? Take time to assess your Internet usage. Do you stream videos or 4K content regularly? If so, you’ll need a plan that offers high-speed connections to prevent buffering and ensure smooth playback. Are you an avid online gamer? Online gaming, especially with other online players, requires not only fast download speeds but low latency to avoid lag.
• How many devices are connected to your network at any given time? Think about the number of devices in your household that connect to the Internet, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and smart home devices like security cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants. The more devices connected simultaneously, the more bandwidth you’ll need.
• Do you or others in your household work or study from home? If you or someone in your household works remotely or attends virtual classes, the reliability and speed of your Internet connection are crucial. Frequent video conferencing, large file downloads, and online collaboration tools require a stable, high-speed connection with fast download and upload speeds.

Determine Your Cable TV Preferences

Whether you’re after a simple channel lineup or a premium package with all the bells and whistles, it’s important to consider what you truly enjoy watching on TV. Are you content with the basics, or do you crave access to premium channels and on-demand services? Don’t forget to factor in your budget as well. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• What types of channels do you watch most often? Are you a sports enthusiast who needs access to every game and match? Do you love staying up-to-date with the latest news from around the world? Are you a movie buff who loves having a wide variety of films at your fingertips? Think about your must-have channels, and don’t forget to consider which channels your family or housemates enjoy.
• Do you need a basic channel lineup, or are you looking for something more comprehensive? If you’re satisfied with a smaller selection of popular channels you often watch, a basic package might be all you need. But, if you want a broad range of content, including niche channels, premium networks like HBO or Showtime, or themed packages such as sports or movie bundles, a more comprehensive package will be a better match.
• How important are on-demand services to you? Do you prefer to watch shows and movies on your own schedule instead of at their scheduled broadcast time? On-demand services give you the flexibility to watch your favorite content whenever it’s convenient for you. Many providers also offer streaming services or DVR options with their cable packages, so you can record shows to watch later or stream content directly to your TV whenever you’re ready to watch.

Compare Providers and Plans

Once you’ve identified your needs, it’s time to start researching providers and plans. You can do this on your own, or you can use a tool like SmartMove to find the best Internet and cable TV providers in your area. Here’s how:

• Find Providers: Use SmartMove to quickly discover Internet and cable TV providers available in your area. Just enter your address and you’ll get a list of options, saving you the hassle of individually searching each provider. This ensures you’re only considering services that are actually available to you.
• Compare Plans: With your list of providers in hand, you can start comparing their offerings. Look at critical factors like speed, channel selection, and pricing. Be aware of introductory rates that may increase after a few months, and focus on the overall long-term value of each plan.
• Read Reviews: Check out customer reviews and ratings for each provider. These reviews offer valuable insights into the reliability of the service, customer support quality, and overall satisfaction from current users.

Decide on a Plan Option

Different types of Internet and cable TV plans are available, each with its own features and benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand what’s out there:

Types of Internet Plans

Internet plans come in various types, each offering different speeds and features:

• DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Internet: DSL uses existing phone lines to deliver Internet service. It is generally slower compared to other options and is suitable for basic activities like browsing and emailing. If you have a low budget and don’t need high speeds, DSL could be a good choice.
• Cable Internet: Cable Internet uses coaxial cables and is faster than DSL. It’s suitable for streaming videos, gaming, and handling multiple devices. Most households will find cable Internet to be a good balance of speed and cost.
• Fiber Internet: Fiber-optic Internet provides the fastest speeds by using light signals transmitted through fiber-optic cables. It’s ideal for heavy or high-speed Internet usage, streaming in 4K, online gaming, and working from home with high bandwidth needs. While fiber plans might be more expensive, they offer superior performance for home WiFi networks.
• Satellite Internet: Satellite Internet is available almost anywhere but tends to be slower and more expensive than other options. It’s useful if you live in a rural area where other types of Internet are not available, but it may come with higher latency and lower speeds.

For more details, check out this guide on choosing the right Internet connection type.

Types of Cable TV Plans

Cable TV plans also come in different tiers, each offering various features:

• Basic Cable: A basic cable plan includes local channels and a few additional channels. It’s usually the most affordable option and works well if you only need a few channels for news and entertainment.
• Expanded Cable: An expanded cable plan adds more channels to the basic package, including some specialty channels. It’s a good option if you want more variety but don’t need premium channels.
• Premium Cable: Premium cable plans offer the most extensive channel lineups, including movie channels like HBO, Showtime, or Starz. These plans often include additional features like on-demand content and DVR options.
• Bundle Packages: Many providers offer bundle packages that combine TV, Internet, and sometimes phone services. Bundling can often save you money compared to purchasing each service separately.

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right Internet and cable TV plans requires careful thought. To make the best decision, keep these key factors in mind:

Internet Factors

• Speed: Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). For smooth streaming, gaming, and working from home, look for download speeds of at least 100 Mbps. If you have multiple users or devices, consider plans offering 300 Mbps or higher to ensure ample bandwidth.
• Data Caps: Some plans impose data limits, typically ranging from 1 TB to unlimited data. If you stream frequently or have a data-intensive household, aim for a plan with at least 1 TB of data, or better yet, choose an unlimited data plan to avoid extra fees or Internet slowdowns.
• Reliability: Research customer reviews to get a sense of how reliable your choices are. Check for any frequent outages or service interruptions in your area, and see if customers report consistent speeds and stable connections, especially during peak usage times.
• Customer Support: Look for providers that have strong ratings for customer service, and pay attention to how quickly issues are resolved. Consider the availability of multiple support channels — such as 24/7 phone, chat, or email — so you can get help when you need it most.

Cable TV Factors

• Channel Selection: Make sure the plan you choose includes all your favorite channels and shows. Look for providers that offer customizable packages or bundles with the channels you watch most often so you don’t end up paying for content you won’t use.
• Cost: Compare the costs of different plans, including all potential fees. Ensure you fully understand what’s included in the advertised price, and be on the lookout for hidden fees or extra costs that might increase your bill unexpectedly.
• Contract Terms: Review any contract requirements and be aware of potential early termination fees. Some providers may offer lower monthly rates if you commit to a contract, but make sure you’re comfortable with the terms and conditions before signing up.
• Equipment Rental Fees: Consider any rental fees for necessary equipment like cable boxes, modems, or DVRs. These costs can add up, so be sure to factor them into your overall decision to avoid surprises on your bill.

How to Sign Up for Internet and Cable

After choosing the perfect provider and plan, here’s how to get started with the signup process:

1. Contact Providers: Reach out to the cable or Internet service provider’s customer service to confirm details about the plan you’re interested in. You can do this by phone or online.
2. Ask Questions: Make sure to ask about pricing, available features, and any potential extra fees (such as early termination fees). Clarify any doubts you have about the service, such as installation charges or equipment costs.
3. Schedule Installation: Arrange a time for installation if required. Some providers may offer self-installation options if you prefer to set up the service yourself.
4. Buy Hardware: If the provider doesn’t include equipment like modems or routers, you’ll need to purchase them separately. Make sure any equipment you buy is compatible with the service you choose.
5. Complete Paperwork: Fill out any necessary forms or agreements. This may include contracts or consent forms for service installation and activation.

Using SmartMove for Easy Setup

SmartMove makes setting up your Internet and cable TV services a breeze. Once you find local providers by entering your zip code on the SmartMove website, follow these steps for an easy setup:

• Choose the Right Plan: After identifying the providers available in your area, use SmartMove to compare different plans. This side-by-side comparison helps you select the best option that fits your needs and budget.
• Connect with Your Chosen Provider: Once you've chosen a plan, SmartMove can help direct you to the provider’s website or customer service for the next steps in setting up your service. They’ll assist with scheduling installation and setting up your account, and you can ask them any questions you may have.
• Access Setup Guidance: If you have questions during the process, SmartMove offers general tips and resources to help you understand what to expect during installation. We’ll even help you figure out any hardware needed to set up your new Internet or cable TV connection.

Find the Best TV and Internet Providers Near You

Choosing the best Internet service provider or cable TV service doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your needs, comparing your options, and using helpful tools like SmartMove, you can find a plan that fits your lifestyle. Take your time, explore your choices, and soon you’ll be enjoying the perfect service that keeps you connected and entertained. Ready to get started? Enter your address and discover your cable and Internet options now!