How to Set Up Internet in Your New Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but before you settle in, you’ll want to ensure you have a reliable internet connection. Whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or just staying connected with loved ones, setting up the internet is one of the first tasks you need to tackle.  The thought of having to set up home internet service can seem daunting if you’re not familiar with the process. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, this guide will walk you through each step, from  choosing an internet provider to testing your network.

Step 1: Identify Your Internet Needs

Before diving into the setup process, it’s important to assess your household’s internet needs. A successful internet set up not only requires installing and configuring your modem and router but also involves verifying that your home network is optimized for performance and reliability. So, before you set up internet service, evaluate your household’s needs to determine the appropriate speed and data plan needed. This will help you with having a clearer idea of the type of service and equipment you’ll require.

Number of Users and Devices

Consider how many people will be using the internet in your home and how many devices will be connected simultaneously. More users and devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, gaming consoles) require more bandwidth. If you have a smart home setup, you’ll also need to account for the internet usage of smart devices like security cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants.

Type of Activities

Determine what you’ll primarily be using your internet for. Basic activities like browsing and emailing require less speed than activities such as video conferencing, streaming HD/4K content, and online gaming. If multiple people are engaging in high-bandwidth activities at the same time, you’ll want to ensure you have a fast enough connection.

Speed Requirements

Understanding your speed requirements will help you make the right choice when selecting a service plan. Here’s a general breakdown of speeds based on common activities:

• Basic Browsing and Email: 1-5 Mbps
• Streaming HD Video: 5-10 Mbps
• Streaming 4K Video or Online Gaming: 25-100 Mbps
• Multiple High-Bandwidth Users: 100+ Mbps

Step 2: Find the Right Internet Service Provider (ISP)

Once you have a clear idea of your internet needs, the next step is choosing from one of the many suitable internet service providers (ISP). If fiber optic or cable options are not available in your area, you might consider DSL internet as a reliable alternative, which provides a stable connection through existing phone lines.  Choosing the right ISP is important, so be sure to research different providers to find the best one that fits your needs and budget before you set up internet service. Once you’ve selected an ISP, schedule your installation or gather the necessary equipment to set up internet service on your own.  Note that your options may depend on your location, as different areas offer different types of internet services. Here’s how to evaluate your options:

Types of Internet Services

There are different types of internet connections available. Each has its advantages and disadvantages:

• Fiber Optic: The fastest and most reliable type of internet connection. Ideal for households with high bandwidth demands, such as streaming and gaming.
• Cable: Common in many areas, offering good speeds for most households. It uses the same infrastructure as cable TV.
• DSL (Digital Subscriber Line): Delivered through phone lines, DSL is slower than cable or fiber, but it’s often more widely available in rural areas.
• Fixed Wireless: This technology delivers internet wirelessly from a tower. It’s a good option for homes in rural areas where fiber and cable aren’t available.
• Satellite: Available almost everywhere, satellite internet is slower and more expensive but a viable option for those in remote locations.

Read More: Different Types of Internet Connections

Research Providers

Research local providers to compare packages, speeds, and prices. Many ISPs offer bundled services that include internet, phone, and television at a discounted rate. When choosing a provider, consider the following:

• Speed Plans: Ensure the provider offers speeds that match your needs.
• Data Limits: Some providers have data caps, which can limit your internet usage.
• Customer Service: Look for a provider with good customer support in case you need help troubleshooting issues.
• Pricing: Compare the cost of plans, installation fees, and equipment rental fees.

If you’re looking for expert advice on the best internet options for your new home, 24-7 & West Wisconsin Telcom offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our team can guide you through selecting the right ISP and ensuring you have the best setup possible.

Step 3: Install Your Equipment

After selecting your ISP and setting up an account, the next step is installing your equipment. You’ll typically receive a modem and a router, either as separate devices or a single device that combines both functions. Your home modem is the gateway to your internet service, so it’s essential to place it in a central location to ensure a strong and reliable connection throughout your home. If you’re unsure how to set up a home router, most routers come with a step-by-step guide or you can follow the detailed instructions provided in the user manual to ensure proper configuration. Make sure to connect your modem to the internet source before you set up internet on your router to ensure a proper connection. To successfully set up internet service, start by unpacking your modem and router, and follow the instructions provided by your ISP or equipment manufacturer. If you opted for professional installation, the technician will handle this step. However, if you’re setting up the equipment yourself, follow these steps:

Modem Setup

The modem is the device that connects your home to the internet through your chosen service (e.g., cable, DSL, fiber). Here’s how to install it:

• Location: Place the modem in a central location near your main computer or smart TV. Ensure the area has good airflow and isn’t obstructed by furniture or other items.
• Connect to a Power Source: Plug the modem into an electrical outlet.
• Connect to the Internet Source: Use a coaxial cable, phone line, or fiber-optic cable (depending on your service) to connect the modem to your wall outlet.
• Power On the Modem: Allow the modem to power up. It may take a few minutes for the lights to indicate that it’s connected to the internet.

Router Setup

The router is what distributes your internet connection wirelessly throughout your home:

• Location: Like the modem, the router should be placed in a central location for optimal coverage.
• Connect the Router to the Modem: Use an Ethernet cable to connect the modem to the router. Plug one end into the modem’s LAN port and the other into the router’s WAN or internet port.
• Power On the Router: Plug the router into an outlet and power it on. Wait for the router’s lights to indicate that it’s ready.

Step 4: Set Up Your Wireless Network

Once your equipment is installed and powered on, you’ll need to set up your home WiFi network. During the setup process, be sure to change the default network name and password to something unique when you set up internet access for your home. When configuring your router, you’ll need to set up internet connectivity settings to create a secure and functional WiFi network. To ensure a stable and high-speed connection for devices like gaming consoles or workstations, you may need to install an Ethernet cable directly from your router to these devices.

1. Access the Router’s Admin Page

Using a web browser, enter the router’s IP address (usually printed on the router or in the manual) into the address bar. This will take you to the router’s login page.

2. Create a WiFi Network Name (SSID)

Choose a name for your wireless network. This is the name that will appear when you or your guests search for WiFi networks to connect to. Make it something easy to recognize but avoid using personal information.

3. Set a Password

To protect your network, create a strong password using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common passwords like “password123.” This will prevent unauthorized users from accessing your internet.

4. Configure Additional Settings

Most routers offer additional settings like parental controls, guest networks, and quality of service (QoS) settings to prioritize bandwidth for specific devices.

Step 5: Connect Your Devices

With your WiFi network set up, you can now connect your devices to the internet. After you set up internet access, connect your devices to the network by selecting your WiFi network name and entering the password. Follow these steps:

1. Find Your Network

On each device (smartphone, laptop, smart TV, etc.), go to the WiFi settings and search for available networks. Select your WiFi network name from the list.

2. Enter the Password

Input the password you set up earlier for your network. Once entered correctly, your device will connect to the internet.

3. Repeat for All Devices

Repeat this process for every device that will be connected to your home internet. If you have smart home devices, consult the device’s manual for specific connection instructions.

Step 6: Test Your Network

Once all your devices are connected, it’s time to test your network to ensure everything is working correctly. Ensure that your home connection is stable by checking the signal strength and running speed tests to confirm that you’re getting the speeds promised by your ISP. Test your network to ensure everything is working correctly and that you’ve successfully set up internet service throughout your home.  Here’s how to test your home internet connection:

1. Run a Speed Test

Use an online speed test tool (like Speedtest.net or Fast.com) to measure your internet speed. Compare the results to the speeds promised by your ISP to ensure you’re getting the service you’re paying for.

2. Check for Dead Zones

Walk around your home with a connected device to check for areas with weak or no WiFi signal. If you find dead zones, consider moving your router to a more central location or investing in a WiFi extender.

3. Test Your Devices

Make sure all of your devices can connect to the internet and perform tasks like streaming, browsing, or gaming without interruptions.

4. Troubleshoot Connection Issues

If you experience connection problems, try rebooting your modem and router. Unplug both devices, wait 30 seconds, and then plug them back in. If issues persist, contact your ISP for further assistance.

Additional Considerations

Ethernet vs. WiFi

If you require faster or more stable internet for certain devices (like gaming consoles or workstations), consider connecting them to the internet via Ethernet cable rather than WiFi. This can help reduce latency and provide a more reliable connection.

Read More: WiFi and Ethernet Difference: What’s the Better Option?

Fixed Wireless and Satellite

In rural areas where DSL, cable, or fiber-optic internet isn’t available, fixed wireless and satellite options may be the only alternatives. These services can be slower and more expensive, but they provide internet access in areas with limited infrastructure.

Upgrading Equipment

If you find that your connection isn’t fast enough or you’re experiencing frequent issues, it may be worth upgrading your modem, router, or both. Many ISPs provide basic equipment that may not support the highest speeds available or advanced features like beamforming or mesh networking for extended coverage.

Conclusion

Setting up internet in your new home doesn’t have to be a complicated process. By assessing your needs, choosing the right service provider, and following these installation steps, you can have your home internet up and running in no time. Once everything is connected, you’ll be able to enjoy seamless connectivity for work, entertainment, and staying in touch with family and friends. If you need further assistance with your internet setup or are you considering a new internet provider, contact the experts at 24-7 & West Wisconsin Telcom.