Television options in my area

Broadband Expert provides a free service that allows you to run a search for cable providers in your area. Because coverage may vary depending on location even within service area for a single provider, the best way to narrow down your search is by zip code.

Search TV providers by zip code here (select “TV only”):

Once you input your information, you’ll be able to compare plans from the cable TV providers in your area and choose the best choice for your budget. However, don’t assume that you’re limited in your choice of options. There are some good alternatives to cable TV and internet that could save you a significant amount of money.

Access to the internet using cable broadband is achieved through a co-axial cable network designed specifically to transfer data at high speeds. This differs greatly from the copper wires that are generally used for DSL—a system that was built with broadband and TV in mind. All that’s required to access the internet is a modem or router and a cable internet provider in your area which services your address. In the same way as a regular dial-up connection, a modem or router is used to forward data along a network.

How easy is it to get set-up?

Depending on what cable and internet providers are available in your area, you might need very little infrastructure installed. A cable company representative will usually come to your home to install the TV, phone and internet equipment. After you order a package, the company will agree on a date for a technician to visit your home. In all, set-up should take no longer than an hour. They’ll then give you a brief overview of how to use the equipment (although it’s normally very straight forward). If you have any technical problems after the representative leaves, you can always call the support line for additional instructions.

What about cable internet providers availability and coverage?

Cable internet caters to a wide range of users—from avid gamers to the periodic web surfer. Although cable internet availability does not cover the entire span of the US, it is spreading as providers increase their networks. If you haven’t already done so, run a Broadband Expert search for providers in your area. The low costs and high speeds also make it perfect for users looking to ditch their dial-up connections, which are quickly becoming outdated. If you still have dial-up trust us it’s time to switch and join this century! Keep in mind that cable internet providers generally offer a menu of cable TV channels (since the same technology is used to deliver each). This is because the cable lines now used to deliver internet service were installed to deliver cable TV before the internet existed.

What are the advantages and disadvantage compared to DSL companies?

The number of cable companies fighting for new customers has increased tremendously, which means one thing—savings! If you’re interested in a bundle that includes TV then it may be worthwhile to consider satellite companies like Dish Network and DirecTV. You can access these providers at the top of the Broadband Expert website.

On the downside, the technology suffers the same drawback as its rival DSL. Since it can only be accessed from a fixed location, a number of users are now opting for mobile broadband since it’s becoming more affordable and faster with the arrival of 4G.

One advantage is that there are a wide range of cable TV, phone and internet plans available from companies like Comcast, Verizon, Time Warner, Cox, Charter and Insight. Bundles are much cheaper than buying the services individually. They are also convenient because you don’t have to deal with more than one supplier meaning less hassle and paperwork. You can use our site to compare prices and check for plans offering phone, internet, and cable bundles in addition to standalone high speed internet services.

If I already have cable TV, can I simply add internet?

Short answer: It depends. Some cable TV providers also sell internet, but others sell only TV programming. However, the ones that sell only TV often partner with cable internet providers in your zip code, which means less installation hassle. The best way to answer this question for your particular situation is to search for cable internet providers in your area by zip code, here:

Some examples:

• Comcast/Xfinity is a cable TV provider and also an ISP. If you have TV through Comcast, it’s usually a relatively simple matter to add cable internet service.
• DirecTV is a TV provider but not an ISP. However, DirecTV often partners with the ISP in your area, such as CenturyLink or AT&T, so you can add internet service fairly easily. A separate line would have to be installed, as satellite TV and DSL internet are unrelated, but you can often save money by bundling these packages.

Are there any alternatives to Cable Internet or DSL available to me?

The best way to check this is to search by zip code and then filter by the type of service you’re looking for.

But the answer to the above question is often “yes, there are more options than you realize”. Satellite internet and cable TV are an option. They aren’t usually ideal, but can work in a pinch, depending on your particular cable and internet needs. Fiber is also a great option in many areas. One of the most well-known fiber optic options is Google Fiber, but many other providers are now offering fiber, in order to stay competitive in areas where Google Fiber has been built.

Google fiber and other fiber networks often offer a fiber TV channel lineup rivaling that of cable TV channel lineups, either by partnering with streaming services such as Hulu, or by creating their own channel lineups using proprietary software and hardware.

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