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• Phone and Internet

How do I get an internet connection?

Having an internet connection is very common in Canadian households. You can choose to buy internet services from a large-scale cable and telephone company or from an independent provider.

Access to the internet is an essential part of many daily activities such as shopping, banking, watching TV, reading news updates, emailing, working remotely and studying.

There are two methods you can choose to buy residential internet services. Large-scale cable and telephone companies will offer bundles where you can choose many services in a single package, such as internet, telephone, and television. Purchasing a bundle might be a cheaper option than if you were to buy these services individually. Rogers and Bell Canada are the 2 major companies that provide bundles in Ontario. However, you do not have to purchase a bundle in order to get internet connection with a large company. You can choose to buy just an internet plan with them instead; and don't feel pressured to buy into their other services.

You can also choose to buy from an independent internet service provider. Most independent providers do not offer a bundle but their internet services tend to be reasonably priced.

Many service providers and cable/telephone companies offer in-home equipment, including Wi-Fi set-up, so you can connect your computers and other devices to the internet. Find a service provider near you. You can buy your own equipment as well.

Pricing

Generally, you will have to pay the internet bill on a monthly cycle. Pricing will vary depending on the provider, bundle, and on what is included in the service. High-speed (bandwidth) internet with higher gigabyte (GB) usage will increase the overall cost.

It is important to not be concerned only about the cost. Comparing speed and gigabyte limits offered to the type of internet user you are can be very important. For instance, watching videos and movies online requires more gigabyte usage compared to just checking your email and doing some online shopping. If you go over your GB limit, you may be charged extra.

Make sure to research several service providers and cable/telephone companies before choosing a plan so that you find the one that works best for you.

Complaints

If you are having issues with your internet, you should contact your service provider to resolve the problem. You can choose to change your service provider by requesting your new provider to transfer the existing services on your behalf.

You can also file a complaint with the Commissioner for Complaints for Telecommunications Services (CCTS).

For More Information

• Internet Billing Practices and Pricing - Information on how to understand billing practices and pricing for residential internet services. From the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
• Internet Services for Canadians - Information and updates on internet services in Canada. From the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
• Communication Service Providers - Find service providers near you, compare providers, or learn how to change your provider. From CRTC.