Congratulations on your new place. Whether it’s a new loft, apartment or house, setting up internet is one memorable way of making this space truly yours.
According to Pew Research Center data, as of 2024, over 96% of adults in the US use the internet. It’s safe to say that setting up internet in your new place is a must, especially if you work from home While some moving tasks are stressful, setting up internet doesn’t have to be. Read on to learn tips on how to set up internet like a pro.
We can help you figure out which internet service providers are available in your new area.
When moving into a new apartment, check with the leasing office to see if the complex has a primary internet provider. While the FCC seeks to increase broadband competition in apartments, your apartment may be wired for a specific internet service type, such as cable, fiber or even fixed wireless. In such cases, your best option will likely be to go with whatever provider serves the complex, but you may be able to seek out other options. Again, speak with your leasing office about what’s available before moving in.
Once you’ve decided on the internet provider you want, whether that’s your current provider or a new one, and the plan that best fits your needs, it’s time to connect with the providers.
Obviously, you’ll only have to contact one provider and give them your move-out and move-in dates if you’re transferring service. Some providers, such as Verizon Fios and Xfinity, let you schedule your service transfer online, whereas others, like Spectrum, require you to call customer service.
Your provider may charge a transfer fee. My advice would be to negotiate with your provider and see if they’ll waive the fee. This may require a call to customer service, even if you can transfer your service online, which may not be worth your time when you’re trying to pack. Service transfer fees are often low, in the $10 to $20 range, but every dollar counts when moving.
In the case of switching providers, I’d recommend contacting your current provider first. That way, you can schedule the disconnect date and get the details on any remaining payments and what you need to do with your equipment, all of which are good things to know before moving day.
Additionally, suppose your current provider is also available at your new address and you express interest in switching to a new provider. In that case, they may offer you a lower rate or other incentives to keep your business — perks that you may not get when simply transferring your service.
When switching to a new provider, either because your current provider isn’t available or your new address presents options for a faster ISP with cheaper plans, try to set up your new service well before your move. That way, you’ll have the best chance of scheduling your installation as close to your move-in date and time as possible. Most providers allow you to sign up for service online and schedule your installation date right from your computer or phone. In some cases, you can also pick a preferred window of time for the installation.
If self-installation is available, and you’re comfortable with it, that may be the best way to ensure service is set up when you want it. In addition, you may save more money through the self-installation route. Just keep in mind that self-installation may require picking up the gear or waiting for it to arrive in the mail.
To learn more, check out our 10 Expert Tips to Finding the Right Internet Provider For Your Home.
Your provider will handle things on the service side of your internet connection, but you’ll be responsible for the equipment.
When transferring service, or if you use your own network devices, you’ll probably be expected to pack it up and take it with you. If you still have the box the hardware came in, that’ll be your best option for storing and moving it. Otherwise, feel free to throw it in a box with other stuff, though you may want to wrap it in a towel or thin blanket to prevent damage during the move. Also, and this is important, make sure your equipment doesn’t get wet.
Switching providers will involve returning your old equipment and getting your new devices. Many providers have brick-and-mortar locations where you can return your gear, but if yours does not, or if the trip and waiting in line is out of your way, mailing it back may be an option as well.
Getting your new equipment comes down to self versus professional installation. For self install, you may have to pick your devices up at a brick-and-mortar location or receive it by mail. If it’s not out of your way, I’d recommend picking it up in person so you have it on the day of your move. Again, try to transfer the hardware in the box it came in and, above all, keep it from getting wet.
If you opt for professional installation, you can count on the tech to bring the necessary accessories and cords — one less thing to worry about when moving.
If you already have an internet provider and service to your home, you can set up a Wi-Fi network in a matter of minutes. Just plug in your router and follow the instructions to create a Wi-Fi network and password, then start connecting your devices. If you have a new internet provider and self-installation is an option, you can save more money and time as opposed to professional installation. Read our guide on how to self-install your internet.
Professional installation can take as long as three or four hours if the installer needs to run wires or troubleshoot connection issues.
If you’re canceling service with your current provider and going with a new one, it’s possible that any equipment you own, such as Wi-Fi routers and extenders, will be compatible with your new service.
This won’t always be the case, however. When switching to a new connection type, say cable internet to fiber, you’ll need a different type of modem.
If you were planning on taking rented equipment from your old provider to your new one, keep in mind that doing so will likely result in a hefty fee from your previous ISP. Not only that, but the devices are almost sure to not be compatible with your new service.
