Step 1: Understand the concepts
The most reliable way for Portlanders to access the internet from home is through Broadband. So far, the best version is transmitted through fiber-optic cable, which 79% of Portland has access to. If this is not available where you are, look into DSL (accessing the internet through a landline phone) and satellite services.
Internet speed
Speed is the most common deciding factor after cost. This refers to how fast information travels to and from the devices that connect to the internet. Internet speeds are advertised in ranges up to a certain speed. For example, “up to 40Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload”. This means a constant speed of 40Mbps/5Mbps is not guaranteed. You may experience slower speeds based on the number of users who are using the internet in your house or neighborhood at the same time. If your internet is slower than expected consider conducting a speed test.
Internet speed is currently anywhere between less than 5 megabits per second (Mbps) and 1,000+ Mbps. The federal minimum speed for a service to be considered 'broadband' is 25Mbps/3Mbps, however not all service providers offer broadband service, so you can find services with slower speeds offered.
There are two different speeds of your internet service: the download speed (how fast you grab information from the web and make it accessible on your device) and the upload speed (how fast your information gets collected and sent to the web). The upload speed is always slower. This is particularly important to notice if you plan to video conference. If you experience video or sound that freezes or stops and starts suddenly, known as “buffering,” this is a sign of a potential need for more upload speed.
Modem versus router
Broadband internet needs 2 devices, a modem and router, which are sometimes integrated into one device. The modem connects your home to the Internet, while a router creates the wireless network inside your house —allowing your devices to connect to the internet wirelessly. This wireless network is known as Wi-Fi. If a wireless connection does not work for you, you can also connect to the internet through an Ethernet cable.
These devices can either be rented or purchased. Renting a router/modem will cost about $10-$15/month. Purchasing a router/modem will cost about $100-$200, but then you won’t have a monthly equipment rental cost on your bill.
Where the router is placed in your space is also important. The further you are from the router, the slower your internet speeds will be. Barriers such as floors and walls can also result in slower speeds. If you experience slower than expected internet speeds, you may want to move closer to your router, or move the router to a different location.
Cellular data versus Wi-Fi data
Cellular data is a term that means connecting to the internet using a cellular network. Cellular service providers talk about these networks like 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G. Cellular networks, unlike Wi-Fi, are not limited to a specific location. Cellular data is how you connect to the internet on your mobile phone on the go, but you can also connect your tablet or computer to a cellular network as well.
Wi-Fi data is a term that means connecting to the internet through a router in a home or business. Wi-Fi networks are either public (open to anyone to use) or private (use is limited to specific people or devices). You often need a password to access both public and private Wi-Fi networks. Unlike cellular networks, Wi-Fi networks only work at a specific location and within a certain distance of the router.
When a smartphone is not connected to a Wi-Fi network, it needs to draw from the available cellular data to access the internet. Usually, the more data that is used, the more expensive the phone bill.
Broadband providers often put limits (“caps”) on the amount of cellular data that can be used per billing period. When these limits are reached, internet service is either stopped or speeds are reduced, or additional fees are charged, depending on the specific internet plan. To avoid data caps and extra fees, providers like to highlight their “unlimited” data plans. This does not mean one will be rid of slow internet. The number of internet users in your area still dictates the speed, which could result in a slow connection. And some “unlimited” services start to slow internet speeds after a certain amount of data is used.
Hotspots
These are wireless areas where one can access the internet. There are four types of hotspots: personal, public, broadband extension, and hotspot devices.
Personal cellular hotspots
This is an option that most smartphones have to share their cellular signal with other devices that can access the internet. Consult the phone manual for details. The connection happens wirelessly (via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) or through a USB cable.
Cellular hotspot devices
This is an alternative if you do not have Wi-Fi access in your location and cannot rely on a personal hotspot via a smartphone. These devices are made to provide a cellular hotspot when a smartphone is not an option. The cheapest wireless hotspots devices tend to have 4G speeds with data caps.
Public Wi-Fi hotpots
Public internet is often available in venues like cafes, libraries, airports, and hotels. They may ask you to check an option that says you acknowledge the terms of that service before using it. The downside is that there are increased privacy and cybersecurity risks when using a public Wi-Fi. Additionally, accessing free Wi-Fi locations is harder during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why our Digital Divide Project wants to empower marginalized Portlanders in securing their own services.
Wi-Fi hotspots tied to broadband provider
Some broadband providers also run Wi-Fi Hotspots in various locations. These are usually password protected and hard to connect to if you are not a customer of that provider. If you do sign up for a broadband plan, you can ask your provider about Wi-Fi hotspots in your service area.
Step 2: Identify your priorities
Here are a series of questions you can ask yourself to help identify your connectivity needs.
Do I have a permanent home?
61% of U.S. households now use Broadband internet, because it is considered the most reliable choice for a single location. If you want to access the internet outside your home without using phone service data, you would need to rely on a provider that offers hotspot connections around the Portland Metro area.
Do I lack a stable residence?
A smartphone and cellular data plan would be a sound investment if you don’t already have one. It does not need to be a new one as long as it can connect to less-secure public hotspots and create its own hotspot. Most phone carriers allow this to be part of their services, but likely means an increase in your data usage and therefore your phone bill. Be aware that the only way to sign up for a wireless service without an address is by using a prepaid phone.
Am I likely to move?
Most providers of in-home internet access allow you to move the service to your next residence as long as the provider offers it at your new home. Make sure your plan does not change with your move because many plans require a contract that dictates how long you commit to using the service (usually a year). If it is interrupted you may be charged a fee. Be prepared to ask the provider if they charge a move/re-activation fee on top of that.
Also, renting a Modem-Router can be smart if you do not know what internet options will be available in your next location.
What if I am a renter?
If you are a renter, you will need to speak with your landlord regarding service installation. They can tell you if the unit is pre-wired by a provider.
What forms of ID can I present?
All providers will need to confirm your identity through a social security number, driver’s license, or another form of identification. Ask the provider what are the acceptable forms of identification.
What forms of payment can I use?
Ask the provider about acceptable forms of payment, for example: “Can I pay by check (personal or Western Union), credit card, cash, or prepaid debit card. You can also ask “Can I make a payment over the phone, in person, or online? Are there fees with any of these payment options?” Don’t be afraid to ask them to walk you through how to pay online.
How is my credit score? Does it matter?
Ask the provider. Some providers may run a credit check to verify your eligibility for a specific internet plan. If you are new to this concept consult this: An Immigrant's Guide To Building A US Credit Score.
For what will I use the internet?
Some common examples during the COVID-19 pandemic are:
- Long-distance work (email, video conferencing, shopping platforms)
- Long-distance learning (school, postgraduate education, YouTube)
- Healthcare: doctor checkups
- Buying and selling goods and services
- Entertainment (games, movies, and TV)
- Connection (social media while social distancing)
How much speed do I need?
Here are some common download speeds for various activities. For more specific suggestions consult this Bandwidth Calculator.
- 0–5 Mbps download works for checking email, streaming music on one device, searching in a Browser (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, Firefox).
- 5–40 Mbps download works for streaming video on one device, video calling (as long as there is enough upload speed), and online gaming for 1 player.
- 40–100 Mbps download works for streaming High Definition video on a few devices, multiplayer online gaming, and downloading large files.
- 100–500 Mbp download works for streaming video in UHD on multiple screens, quick file downloads, and allowing multiple players to game online.
- 500–1,000+ Mbps download works for doing a lot of almost anything. Usually, the acronym Gbps (gigabytes per second) will be used to describe 1000+ megabytes.
Upload speeds are also important for some common online activities. Sending emails, video calls, and live video games are examples where data needs to travel in the opposite direction. If you experience video or sound that freezes or stops and starts suddenly, known as “buffering,” this is a sign of a potential need for more upload speed. Another possibility is that your neighborhood internet “pipe” is being overloaded and that can limit the available bandwidth.
How many people will use the internet connection?
Whether you have a big household, a home business, or are a single user, knowing the number of users you expect will use the internet at the same time can help you determine the type and level of Internet service you need. For big households and home businesses, you’ll need to choose a provider that can provide at least 40Mbps download and upload speeds.
How many devices do I want to connect to the internet?
This includes smartphones, laptops, desktops, Chromebooks, tablets, and smart devices (Eco, Apple home, Alexa, etc) and even smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming platforms. Depending if these will be used, rarely, weekly or daily can help understand how much speed you would need to cover your internet needs.
How much space do I need to set up wireless connectivity?
The average router in a 2.4 GHz band reaches up to 150 feet (46 m) indoors and 300 feet (92 m) outdoors. Be aware that the internet’s radio waves can be blocked or interrupted by solid objects in space. These are called dead zones.
Can I negotiate the prices?
Speaking on the phone with a company representative can result in learning about promotional packages not advertised online. If you already have a provider and you wish to change your service it is possible (not guaranteed) to call (ask to speak with the retention department) to negotiate a new rate.
Step 3: Compare options
Before finding the best price, filter your search based on what is available in your location. Comcast (Xfinity and IE) and Lumen (formerly known as CenturyLink) are currently the only wireless providers in Portland. Comcast accepts prepaid non-reloadable debit cards as a form of payment, just like our Internet Assistance Cards. Lumen requires reloadable cards.
As a general guideline, home broadband average cost is about $60/month. Comcast Internet Essentials is a low-cost option at $9.95/month plus tax but speeds are slower at 25Mbps/3Mbps. Be aware that if you have a big household that needs to video conference often that upload speed may fall short of the online working/studying demands for many users.
Contact info for broadband providers
Comcast Xfinity, Toll free: 800-934-6489, Accessibility: 855-270-0379
Internet Essentials from Comcast, Toll free: 888-234-4272
Lumen/CenturyLink, Toll free: 855-727-9916
Viasat (High-Speed Satellite Internet), Toll free: 877-336-2492
Check out this map from the Digital Inclusion Network that includes local providers as well as non-profits supporting the bridging of Digital Divide.
Contact info for cellular providers
AT&T, Toll free: 800-331-0500
Verizon, Toll free for devices/plans: 800-922-0204, Toll free for upgrades: Mon-Sat: 8am-10pm ET, Sun: 9am-10pm ET 800-225-5499
T-Mobile Internet plans for HotSpots, Toll free: 800-937-8997
Step 4: Inquire with providers
Once you identified a provider, make sure that you ask them:
Does the service need a contract or service commitment period? Are there eligibility requirements?
For example, for the low-cost option Comcast IE, you may qualify if you are eligible for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others.
Are there equipment rental fees?
Along with cancelation and reactivation fees, this is another example of a common fee that averages between $10-20/month nationwide. Compare costs and usage and consider if you need to rent a modem/router or if you can buy your own. If so make sure to ask the provider what modem/router models are compatible. Is there a list of compatible devices (to buy your own modem/ router/ hotspot)?
Are there installation fees?
You may be able to install the service yourself or you may need to have a technician come into your space to do it. Ask the provider: Does a technician need to come out to install the service? If yes, ask how much the service installation will cost. If the provider says a technician does not need to visit your home and a free self-installation kit is available, ask what number you can call if you run into problems installing and need a technician to come out.
Will the price quoted go up after an initial introductory period?
Deals usually have a limited timeline. Make sure to keep track of these periods in order to avoid an unexpected bill.
Extra resources
New to using the internet?
Here is a Beginners Quick Reference Guide to Being Online from a technology information and advice website.
New to technology safety?
Check out these resources published by Nashville Public Library.
Looking for local support?
Contact the Multnomah County Library Calling Center for help setting up an email, preparing for an online job interview, and other community support. Dial 503-988-5123 Sunday 9 a.m. –5 p.m., Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday- Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Local support for online students from Multnomah County Official Website.
