2. Performance
If you are paying for high-speed internet, then you'll want the best performance for your needs. This means looking over the ISP record for uptime and overall performance which indicates the reliability of their performance. You'll want to avoid providers who have uptime issues or speeds that are not sufficient for your needs. However, if you do not download movies or videos and primarily use the internet for web surfing, then you can choose a provider with lower speeds as you may not notice the difference.
3. Customer Support
Even the best companies have issues from time to time which is why they should have an excellent customer support system. This means answering your call or initiating a chat 24/7 so they can address your needs. There is no substitute for excellent customer support that can answer questions about your service, bill, or provide additional information when something is not right. You can get recommendations from trusted friends and family or you can visit independent review sites that evaluate the customer service of the providers you are considering.
4. Cancellation
This is something that most people do not think of until they want to get out of their contract. You should look for a provider that tells you what steps are needed to get out of the contract you sign. This means whether they have a penalty if you cancel early and if they offer a 30-day money back guarantee. It pays to know their policy and procedure for cancellation in case you need to get out. You do not want to wait until after you sign the contract to find out how you can get out.
5. Price
This should not be your first consideration, but instead a tie-breaker between otherwise equal providers. You want the best service possible for the lowest price that has what you need.
A little research goes a long way towards finding the best internet provider in your area, so take the time before you choose so that you get what you want.