IPSs are constantly evolving to meet new demands, changing technology, and the continuously increasing internet speeds the world is so eager to obtain. The web is an integral part of the modern world, and if your ISP isn’t keeping up, you could be left behind as the digital world progresses. Some ISPs are either slow to change, can’t afford to, or simply don’t want to. Here are five signs that your internet service provider isn’t updating with the times.
1. Speeds Haven’t Improved
Speed is everything when it comes to your internet connection. Modern tasks require fast and reliable internet connections, and if your ISP isn’t providing good speeds, it’s simply not keeping up with demand. The fastest speeds in the world can transfer terabits of information in less than a few seconds, but these speeds aren’t offered in home internet packages because the technology is costly and the setup would be even more so.
ISPs continue to improve their internet speeds to meet current demands, but not every ISP can keep up. If you’re working with a company whose speeds never improve, it’s time to move on so you’re not left behind. Speeds will only continue to improve as the technology grows more affordable and easy to obtain, and you can expect those who can’t keep up to go out of business altogether.
Check your current internet speeds to see if you’re actually getting the speeds your plan has promised. Often, your actual speed will be less than what your plan claims to offer, and you’ll want to know if you’re actually getting your money’s worth.
2. Your Equipment is Outdated
The speed and reliability of your connection relies largely on the equipment you’re using. If your ISP is providing you with outdated or faulty equipment, not only are you not getting your money’s worth, but you also won’t be able to make the most of your internet service. Your speed will suffer, your connections will likely be spotty or disconnect often, and you’ll be at the mercy of the equipment’s malfunctions.
You can always call your ISP and ask for an upgrade, but if they can’t provide you with better equipment, it might be a good idea to move on and find a new provider. An ISP that can’t even provide current equipment to its customers isn’t going to be able to serve you in the long run.
3. Customer Service Hasn’t Changed
It’s no secret that ISPs don’t’ have the best reputation for customer service, and more than a few providers have developed something of a problem with their customer base. ISPs love to use shady tactics to extract more money from customers, including hidden fees, upgrade and equipment charges, complex setups that require paid installations, late fees, introductory prices that increase over time, and more. If your ISP’s customer service has been continuously terrible, it’s clear that the company is not keeping up with the times.
Nowadays, customer service is a top priority for consumers. The customer service that a company offers determines the loyalty of its customers, and people don’t like to be treated like numbers. Your ISP should be putting customer service at the top of the list to keep itself competitive, but if it isn’t, you can be pretty sure it probably never will. Don’t let yourself be deceived or treated poorly by your ISP!
4. No New Services
New services help give customers options when it comes to their internet service, and helps set the company apart from its competition. If your ISP hasn’t offered any new services for many years, they’re simply not doing a good job of keeping up with the ever-changing ISP market. The same services that were the best ten years ago may be at the bottom of the totem pole today.
It’s a good idea to contact your ISP and ask if any services are being added in the coming months or years. Many companies will be excited to let customers know what good changes are coming, but if your ISP has nothing new to offer, it’s time to move on.
If you’re looking for a new ISP, use Internet Advisor to find the best internet provider online.
5. You’re Stuck in the Same Contract
Not only do services and equipment need an update, but so do the terms of service and contracts that your ISP provides. If you’re stuck in the same service package or contract you were five years ago, it’s clear your ISP has no plans of changing with the market. Many people prefer a month-to-month service when it comes to something like internet service, especially with the reputation of ISPs.
The Bottom Line
An ISP that doesn’t keep up with the ever-changing market cannot possibly move into the future with any measure of success. Services, speeds, and contracts and agreements change over time, and so should the ISP you’re using. Don’t get left behind with an ISP that refuses to evolve.