Consider your location and needs to determine the best ISP for you.
Consider your location and needs to determine the best ISP for you.
Hi! I've been trying my 10GB hotspot lately, but it's not working well and the connection feels slower than PDAnet+. I'm looking for a stable home Wi-Fi to improve my ping and download speeds (aiming for 10-70 ping and 3-5mbps). I'm unsure which ISP would be best for me. Since I might be eligible for FiOS, I'm considering options. I don't have a router yet, but Verizon's plan is $150—really high? The FiOS plan at $39.99 sounds promising, though the router price seems too steep. A router on Amazon for $100 would save money, but they say they won't install it or support if it doesn't meet their standards. Cox is about $10 more each month and doesn’t consistently hit 100mbps. I’d like at least 75mbps for a reasonable price, but I can’t afford $50 a month right now. Thanks in advance!
Thank you. I didn’t have an ISP for home routers before moving to the USA. Now I have choices, mostly mobile options which are decent. If I purchase a router from Amazon, can I install it myself? And if yes, please share the steps—written or video—how to do it.
Verizon relies on a MOCA router, which isn't typically available for purchase in regular stores. This device provides both internet and TV services, making it unique. I've learned that some customers successfully use their own routers with Verizon without issues. The company doesn't support customer-owned routers, just like other ISPs in the US. They prefer customers use their equipment to simplify troubleshooting. Still, you should be able to set up your own router. However, Verizon FIOS delivers fiber directly to homes, offering top-tier internet performance. Cox uses fiber to the node and copper for homes, while many cable providers are moving toward DOCSIS 3.1 for gigabit speeds. These improvements are still in progress.
Thanks for the details. For FiOS compatibility, look for routers labeled as fiber-optic or Gigabit Ethernet support. Cox offers solid speeds—up to 800 Mbps down and 600 Mbps up near university-adjacent areas. To set up a router, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or use a guide specific to your model.
If they set up the Ethernet port on the ONT with a router, the main device there is a router—not just a modem or router. If they say no, you’re left with the same setup Verizon provides. Speeds from Cox must come through fiber, which is costly. Cable internet via coaxial cable usually can’t handle uploads above 45 Mbps. Fiber options are expensive, and Comcast’s plan costs around $1000 for installation plus $299 monthly for a two-year contract at 2 Gbps. Cox will likely charge much higher rates, following the same practices as other providers by adding fees for modems, TV boxes, HD services, and frequent price hikes.
You're asking about what the message means. It's saying there are three apartments with Verizon boxes that show support for Verizon FiOS, and you want to know what that indicates.