When it comes to choosing broadband Internet providers, you can't always get what you want. But with certain limitations, you can get what you need.
If you use the Internet regularly, chances are you already have broadband -- that is, a high-speed hookup, usually through your cable television provider or phone company.
But are you getting it at the right speed and right price? There are more choices than ever, even though you typically have to go with a provider that serves your neighborhood.
For example, if you live in or are moving to a neighborhood where AT&T Inc. provides hard-wired phone lines, it's generally your only source for phone-based broadband service. Too bad if you want the superfast fiber-optic Internet service offered by the rival phone company, Verizon Communications Inc. -- you can't have it.
You can, as an alternative, go with the cable provider that serves your neighborhood. But there's only one of those, too.
It's almost un-American.
But take heart, comparison shoppers. Your range of broadband providers may be limited, but you have several choices in regard to speed and price.
So if you're shopping for broadband for any reason -- including a relocation, to see if you're getting the best deal, or if you don't have it yet -- here's a step-by-step guide to high-speed service.{ PROVIDERS, SPEEDS, COSTS AND BUNDLING UP, PAGE C4 }
Corralling a connection
This guide is tailored to consumers in Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, San Bernardino and Riverside counties, but these tips can be applied across the U.S. The choices may not be bountiful, but you might as well make the best of what you've got.
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STEP 1 Know your local phone company.
It used to be that just about everyone could name his or her land-line phone provider, but that was before cellphones and Internet calling became so popular.
Now, many households bypass the land-line companies altogether by going all-cell or using online phone companies such as Vonage Holdings Corp.
Two land-line phone companies offer broadband -- AT&T and Verizon -- and the vast majority of residences are covered by one or the other. To check which one is in your neighborhood, you can give them a call. AT&T can be reached at (877) 722-2256. Verizon is at (800) 483-4000.
You can also check their websites. They allow you to type in your home address to see what's available.
