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How to Get Internet & WiFi for Apartments?

By: ROS Team

Imagine settling into your new apartment, unpacking boxes, and… realizing you have no internet connection. Disconnected from the world, no streaming, no work-from-home options – a nightmare! But don’t worry!

This guide on How to Get Internet & WiFi for Apartments will equip you with the knowledge to conquer the task of getting internet and Wi-Fi set up in your new apartment, turning that potential nightmare into a smooth transition.

Do Apartments Come With Wi-Fi?

While a steaming cup of coffee might be standard in most apartments, Wi-Fi isn’t always a given. Here’s the breakdown:

Generally No: In most cases, you’ll be responsible for setting up your own internet service, which includes Wi-Fi.

Exceptions Exist: Some apartment buildings might offer Wi-Fi as part of the utilities package. This is more common in student housing or luxury apartments.

HOA Bulk Deals: Homeowner associations (HOAs) may have negotiated a “bulk” internet contract with a specific provider, offering it to residents.

Most Common Types of Internet for Apartment

Choosing the right internet connection for your apartment depends on what’s available in your area and your internet usage needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of internet for apartment, their typical speeds, and price ranges:

1. Cable Internet

Speed: 25 Mbps – 1 Gigabits per second (Gbps)
Price Range: $40 – $150+ per month
Pros: Widely available, good speeds for streaming and moderate online gaming.
Cons: Speeds can be affected by network congestion during peak usage times. Data caps are common.

2. Fiber Optic Internet

Speed: 25 Mbps – 2 Gbps+
Price Range: $60 – $200+ per month
Pros: Fastest and most reliable internet option, perfect for heavy data users and online gamers. Less susceptible to network congestion.
Cons: Availability can be limited, especially in rural areas. Generally the most expensive option.

3. DSL Internet

Speed: 1 Mbps – 100 Mbps
Price Range: $20 – $70+ per month
Pros: Often the most affordable option and widely available, especially in areas without cable or fiber.
Cons: Speeds are generally slower than cable or fiber, not ideal for streaming or online gaming.

4. Fixed Wireless Internet

Speed: 25 Mbps – 100 Mbps (varies by provider)
Price Range: $40 – $100+ per month
Pros: Emerging option offering an alternative to cable or DSL in some areas. No need for cable installation.
Cons: Availability and speed can vary depending on the provider and location. May be impacted by weather conditions.

How to Get WiFi in Apartment?

wifi for apartment
Photo Credit: Canva

 

Determine Your Needs

Before you start looking for an internet service provider (ISP), figure out what kind of internet you need. How many devices will be connected at once? Do you mostly use it for streaming videos or playing games? What speed do your activities require?

Choose an ISP

Check which companies offer service in your area and compare them. Find out about different types of connections like cable, DSL, fiber optic etc., their reliability and speed; do not forget to consider pricing as well as contract terms. It’s also useful to read customer reviews or ask around in the neighborhood for recommendations. When you have made up your mind contact the chosen company and sign up for their services.

Install The Equipment

After subscribing to an internet plan, schedule an installation appointment with your chosen ISP. During the installation, a technician will typically set up the necessary equipment, such as a modem and router, to establish your internet connection.

Ensure that the installation location for the equipment allows for optimal WiFi coverage throughout your apartment. If you’re provided with a modem/router combo, follow the technician’s instructions for setup. If you’re using your own equipment, carefully follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.

Connect Your Devices

After your equipment is installed and you are connected to the network, each device needs to get connected. You will need to connect every one of your devices to the Wi-Fi network whether it is a laptop, a smartphone, a smart TV or a gaming console.

Find your network name (SSID) and password which are typically given by your ISP or can be found on your modem/router sticker. You should access wifi settings on your device, select the network and input a password so as to create a connection.

Make the Most of Security Features

Make your internet connection and personal information secure by utilizing the safety attributes that come with your router. Change the default username and password for accessing the router’s settings to something unique and secure.

Turn on encryption protocols like WPA2 or WPA3 in order to prevent unauthorized persons from using your wifi network without permission.

For extra security layers you can also activate features such as MAC address filtering and guest network isolation. To fix any security loopholes and ensure maximum performance, keep updating your router firmware frequently. With these measures, you can comfortably browse the internet while residing in apartments knowing that it is safe and secure.

What Are the Best Internet Providers for Apartments?

Verizon Fios

Verizon Fios has been providing incredibly quick fiber optic interne­t services since 2004. With download and upload spe­eds reaching up to 2.3 gigabits per se­cond (Gbps), you can experience­ blazing-fast internet connectivity. In addition to the inte­rnet, Verizon Fios offers phone­ and TV packages, with pricing starting from $49.99 per month.

AT&T

AT&T is a major tele­com company in the United States and offe­rs dependable inte­rnet services to many pe­ople nationwide. Their plans be­gin at $55.00 each month and the company provides fibe­r and wireless interne­t options. With AT&T, you can experience­ extremely fast spe­eds going up to 5 gigabits per second (Gbps).

Xfinity

Xfinity provides re­liable internet, TV, and phone­ services for many areas. The­ company offers services in 39 state­s and the District of Columbia. Xfinity uses a hybrid fiber-coax ne­twork for connections and their prices start at $19.99. Download speeds range­ from 50 Mbps to 2 Gbps, depending on the plan you choose­.

WOW!

WOW! is another fantastic ISP that delivers fast and re­liable internet, TV, mobile­, and home phone service­s. Their internet plans be­gin at an affordable price of $30.00 per month. With download spe­eds ranging from 300 Mbps to an incredible 1.2 Gbps, you can se­amlessly engage in various online­ activities like emailing, web surfing, streaming, and working from home.

Google Fiber

Powered by fiber optic technology, Google Fiber delivers blazing-fast broadband internet to homes and businesses. With prices starting from $70.00, you can enjoy download speeds ranging from 1 Gbps to 8 Gbps. Plus, they also offer Wi-Fi, TV, and phone services.

What Internet Speed Do I Need for a 2 Person Apartment?

For a two-person home­, an internet spee­d between 50 and 100 Mbps is usually e­nough. This speed works well for stre­aming shows in HD quality, using the internet e­asily, and even some online­ gaming.

How Long Does It Take To Set up the Apartment Internet?

Setting up an apartment internet can take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. Self-installation with readily available service might be same-day while waiting for technician installation or dealing with complex wiring could take longer.