Comcast, Cox, CenturyLink. There are a few big names in Internet services, and they seem to get all the press. But what about the little guys? There are still a few local internet providers competing with these Goliaths.
Here are a few reasons you should choose a local internet company rather than going with big-name recognition.
No credit checks. The big companies will collect your social security number and other sensitive information so that they can perform a credit check on you. Not only does this make your access to the internet contingent on your credit score, but it also provides one more avenue through which hackers can potentially steal your identity. Small, local internet providers don't need to put you through such tests before opening up the lines of service.
No hidden or mystery fees. You don't always know exactly what you're paying for when you receive bills for service from the big internet providers. Local internet providers can't afford not to be transparent with their service charges, so you always know what's on your bill and why you're being billed for it.
You get to talk to human being. Don't you love calling your internet provider with a simple question and getting passed from cell to cell in an enormous phone tree? Or how about having to speak commands to a computer system that isn't programmed to hear your specific demand? Neither do most people. Local internet providers rely on manpower to serve their users and that means communicating with customers on a one-on-one basis. You can call your local internet provider and expect to speak to a human being who will quickly answer your question or easily guide you through your issue to a suitable solution.
They know the area. Local internet providers specialize in their service area, so they have an intimate knowledge of the local geography. They can tell you what features might affect your service and whether or not you will really get good coverage in your exact location. They won't have to consult a map or guess based on the company's official line; they actually know.
Local people, local jobs. Not only are you able to call your local internet provider and talk to a human being, but the person you speak to could be one of your neighbors. The person on the other end of the line will understand local issues, needs, weather problems, and geography. The icing on the cake? You support the local economy by helping create jobs for people in your community. Better customer service, a company that understands you and your needs, and a boost to your local economy: What's not to love about local internet access?