Verizon's internet packages and compatible routers
Verizon's internet packages and compatible routers
Hey there! Let's figure out the best ISP package for your situation. You're in a New York area where Verizon and Optimum are the only options with gigabit Ethernet. Right now you're on Optimum for $180 a month, which covers internet, TV, and phone. You think their plan is too expensive, especially since you need Arris to get higher speeds. Plus, reports say Arris isn't great, so you're avoiding it. Your dad and you are checking out Verizon's services, including a bundle that ends around July 25th, 2018. Here are your key points to ask the experts:
1) What do those speed numbers mean?
2) Are there unexpected fees or add-ons?
3) Which routers would work best with this offer?
Your input is super valuable—thanks a lot!
The internet performance is actually 940/880 Mbps as reported. That means a 90GB game can download in roughly half an hour. You’ll face any local taxes and fees, and you may also incur costs for setting up the equipment. For us, installation was about $100 for running an Ethernet cable from the provider’s office to the router. Verizon’s Quantum Router seems to be the only option for your router, as it’s the only one they claim supports on-demand content access through cable boxes.
Here’s a rephrased version of your text:
1) The actual speed you’re promised is what they claim you should expect, though even with perfect conditions, you can’t match the full connection speed.
2) I’d anticipate the “taxes, equipment fees, and additional charges” to be around $20 to $30 each month. For a more precise figure (usually accurate at about $1), you can contact them directly for a quote over the phone. They’ll also show an estimated total cost on their website before you finalize your order. Keep in mind that the $79.99 price shown is only valid for two years and requires signing up for automatic payment. After two years, the rate is likely to rise by about $20 or more—so it’s wise to reach out a month before the agreement ends and request a new two-year plan. When my contract ended, I was able to maintain the same price, but my speed increased significantly (since I’m on a Fios Business plan, not the residential gigabit). For regular gigabit plans, you probably won’t see much change after two years—just similar pricing or a slight increase. These approaches are standard among cable providers, so Verizon isn’t acting differently.
3) If you plan to use Fios TV, you’ll need the Fios Quantum Gateway. Compared to other ISP routers, it’s quite solid. Verizon offers two choices: buy it outright for $200 or rent it for $9.99 per month. Over the two-year period, buying saves you $40. You should verify these numbers for your situation, as prices can vary by location and time. You can also purchase a used Quantum Gateway on eBay and let Verizon know you already own one—this is simpler over the phone. Just ensure A) they add the gateway to your account and B) remove the monthly fee from your bill. My installer didn’t set this up correctly, marking my account as a rental. Once that’s done, only the customer service can fix it. If you want better wireless coverage, you can add additional APs, similar to other routers. There are also options to use your own router and keep your TV units working smoothly—see the guide here: http://www.dslreports.com/faq/verizonfio...Networking
From my perspective, Verizon recommended using their router if you have TV service. Their router is a special Moca model that connects to TV boxes. They might be able to set up the Ethernet port on the ONT for internet access. You’d still need to run an Ethernet cable from the ONT to where you want the router placed. Arris makes decent modems, and they’ve acquired Motorola’s business. If the SB6190 from Arris is faulty because of Intel’s Puma 6 chip, that could be an issue. But as long as you avoid the Intel Puma 6 and there are no reports about the Intel Puma 7, it should work fine.