Complete Guide to Getting Internet for Your Apartment

Safeguarding your data is as important as finding a safe neighborhood to live in. The closer you are to neighbors, the higher the chance of having your data compromised.

Your apartment should be the ultimate safe space for you and your data. 

Step 1: Determine Your Internet Needs

Before choosing a provider, assess your usage:

  • Basic use (email, browsing): 25-50 Mbps

  • Streaming HD video: 50-100 Mbps

  • 4K streaming/gaming: 100-200 Mbps

  • Multiple devices/heavy use: 200+ Mbps

  • Work from home: Consider upload speeds (50+ Mbps recommended for video calls)

Step 2: Research Available Providers

Check which providers service your apartment:

  • Ask your landlord/property management

  • Check provider websites with your address

  • Use comparison tools like BroadbandNow or HighSpeedInternet.com

  • Ask neighbors about their service

Common options include:

  • Cable internet (Xfinity, Spectrum)

  • Fiber optic (Google Fiber, Verizon Fios, AT&T Fiber)

  • DSL (AT&T, CenturyLink)

  • Fixed wireless (T-Mobile Home Internet, Verizon 5G Home)

  • Satellite (Starlink, HughesNet, Viasat)

Step 3: Compare Plans and Pricing

When evaluating plans consider:

  • Monthly cost (watch for promotional rates that increase after 12-24 months)

  • Equipment fees (modem/router rental vs. buying your own)

  • Data caps (some providers limit monthly usage)

  • Contract requirements

  • Installation fees

  • Bundling options (TV/phone)

Step 4: Check Apartment-Specific Considerations

  • Building restrictions: Some apartments have exclusive deals with certain providers

  • Existing wiring: Ask if previous tenants had service installed

  • Shared walls: WiFi interference may require a better router

  • Installation rules: Some landlords require professional installation

Step 5: Order Your Service

Once you’ve chosen a provider:

  1. Schedule installation (or request a self-install kit)

  2. Choose your start date (align with move-in if possible)

  3. Confirm if you need to be present for installation

  4. Ask about any required equipment

Step 6: Set Up Your Equipment

For optimal performance:

  • Place your router centrally in your apartment

  • Keep it elevated and away from obstructions

  • Avoid interference from microwaves, cordless phones

  • Consider a mesh system for larger apartments

  • Secure your WiFi with a strong password

Step 7: Troubleshoot Common Issues

If you experience problems:

  • Restart your modem/router

  • Check for outages with your provider

  • Test speeds with Speedtest.net

  • Contact customer support for persistent issues

Alternative Options

If traditional ISPs don’t meet your needs:

  • Mobile hotspots (from your phone or dedicated device)

  • Public WiFi (with a VPN for security)

  • Community networks (some cities offer municipal broadband)

Money-Saving Tips

  • Bundle with roommates to split costs

  • Negotiate with providers (ask for retention deals)

  • Buy your own modem/router to avoid rental fees

  • Look for low-income programs like the Affordable Connectivity Program

The Bottom Line

With more people working from home, having reliable and fast internet service has become a necessity. With a little research and comparison shopping, you can score the internet speed you need for an affordable price.