Why Switch Internet Providers?
There are several good reasons to switch ISPs: a faster or cheaper provider has become available at your address, your current provider has raised prices beyond what you are willing to pay, you are experiencing chronic speed or reliability issues that your ISP cannot resolve, or your contract has expired and you are no longer locked into the promotional rate. Whatever the reason, switching is straightforward if you follow the right sequence.
Step-by-Step Switching Guide
- Check availability at your address. Use our availability checker to see every provider that serves your specific address. Compare speeds, prices, contract terms, and customer reviews. Verify the plan you want is actually available at your location, not just in your ZIP code.
- Review your current contract. Check whether you are under a contract with an early termination fee (ETF). Most cable and fiber providers have moved away from contracts, but some still charge $10 to $15 per remaining month if you cancel early. DSL and satellite providers are more likely to have contract terms. Your latest bill or online account will show your contract status.
- Order new service before canceling old service. This is the critical step for avoiding downtime. Schedule installation of your new provider while your current service is still active. If the new provider offers self-installation (common with 5G home internet and some cable providers), you can set up the new service yourself and test it before canceling the old one.
- Schedule installation strategically. If both providers require professional installation, try to schedule the new installation in the morning and cancel the old service for the same day. Many providers allow you to specify a disconnection date. For professional installations that require running new lines, the new provider may need 1 to 2 weeks after you place the order.
- Set up and test the new connection. Once the new service is active, test speeds on multiple devices, verify the connection works in all rooms, check that your smart home devices reconnect, and ensure video streaming and work applications function properly. Keep your old service active until you are confident the new connection works.
- Cancel your old service. Call your current provider to cancel. Be prepared for retention offers. They may offer you a better deal, but if you have already decided to switch, stay firm. Ask for confirmation of your final bill date and any prorated charges. Get a confirmation number for the cancellation.
- Return old equipment promptly. Most ISPs require you to return rented modems, routers, and cable boxes within 15 to 30 days of cancellation. Failure to return equipment results in charges of $100 to $300 per device. Return in person at a local store for an immediate receipt, or use the prepaid shipping label your provider sends. Keep your return receipt as proof.
How to Avoid Downtime
The key to zero downtime is running both services simultaneously for a brief overlap period. Order your new service 1 to 2 weeks before you plan to disconnect the old one. Most new providers offer prorated first bills, so the extra overlap costs only a few dollars. During the overlap, thoroughly test the new connection before pulling the plug on the old one.
If you use 5G home internet or a mobile hotspot as your new provider, you can often set up service the same day with no installation appointment needed, making an overlap period free and easy to manage.
What About Your Email?
If you use an ISP-provided email address (like @comcast.net or @att.net), switching providers may cut off access to that email. Before canceling, migrate all important accounts to a provider-independent email (Gmail, Outlook, or your own domain). Forward old emails and update account registrations. Some ISPs let you keep your email address for a small monthly fee after canceling internet service.
Will I get charged an early termination fee?
Only if you are currently under contract. Most cable and fiber providers no longer require contracts on standard plans. Check your account online or call to confirm. If you do have an ETF, some new providers (like Verizon or T-Mobile) may offer to reimburse termination fees up to $500 as a switching incentive.
How long does it take to switch providers?
Self-installation services (5G home internet, some cable) can be set up same-day. Professional installations typically take 3 to 10 business days from ordering. Fiber installations in areas where the line has not been run to your home may take 2 to 4 weeks. Plan ahead to avoid gaps in service.
Can I keep my current router when switching?
If you own your router, yes. Most third-party routers work with any ISP. If you rent your router from your current ISP, you must return it and either buy your own or rent from the new provider. Owning your own modem and router saves $10 to $15 per month and makes future switches easier.