How to set up internet in a new apartment

The internet is a very essential service that it has becomes part and parcel of our lives. Having lived in a house for so long and then having to move might pose a challenge when it comes to an internet connection.

Changing or moving into a new apartment is exciting but at the same time nervy. You have to set up almost everything besides getting used to the new place and neighbors too. Setting up internet in your new apartment should be the least of your worries.

To set up internet in a new apartment, you need to select an Internet Service Provider (ISP) in the area, get a wireless router/modem, identify a cable outlet and connect the modem, connect the modem to the router, and finally connect your devices to the wireless network.

 Factors to consider when setting up an internet connection

 Before purchasing an internet subscription, there are things that you ought to consider to get the best internet speeds and performance. Firstly, consider the type of internet connection best for your scenario. There are four popular internet connection types – Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), cable, satellite, and fiber optic. Though the speeds are slower than the rest, DSL is cheaper and uses phone lines to transmit data. Cable is much faster than DSL and operates like a cable TV using a coaxial cable. Fiber optic is the fastest option and uses fibers to transmit data. Satellite uses satellite signals for internet connection with similar speeds to DSL but suffers from bad weather.  The second factor to consider is the number of devices in your home. The more the devices, the slower your internet speeds become. The second factor to put in mind is the kind of online activities that you wish to use the internet for. For someone with high-bandwidth activities like online gaming and streaming of high-quality videos, you might want to get a higher plan or reduce the streaming quality. The last thing to look at is the size of your apartment. One router or Wi-Fi access point is enough for 1,500 sq. feet or less apartment.

What equipment do I need?

To begin, you need the following types of equipment:

Cable outlet

Most apartments have a cable outlet on the wall to which you connect your modem to. These outlets have coaxial cables connected behind the wall. Identify where your cable outlet is in your apartment, mostly in the living room.

Internet Service Provider (ISP)

An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a company that supplies the internet connection at a fee monthly. You need one to get internet in your apartment. Also, if you have a cable TV subscription already, then with your current policy, you may bundle it with the internet service.

Modem

This device receives data gathered through fiber optic cables, phone lines, and cables then converts the data into digital signals. It then delivers these digital signals to your router which transmits the information to your wireless devices. You can get a modem from either the ISPand be charged monthly or separately purchase one that is compatible with your ISP. Also, you will be required to return the modem to the ISP if you change ISPs.

Wireless router

The router is a device that connects to the modem and allows wireless devices like your smartphone to connect to the internet. It has a software preloaded called firmware that runs it. Most routers directly connect to the modem using an Ethernet cable.

Ethernet cable

This is a thick cable that links your modem and router. It’s not only used to carry high-speed signals but may also be used to provide direct internet access to wired devices like your PC via the Ethernet port.

Wireless & wired device

To test whether the internet is working properly, you need a device to connect to the internet. This can be your PC, Smart TV, smartphone, etc. Most of these devices are wireless. However, you can also use the Ethernet cord to connect a wired device to the internet like your PC or printer.

Settings up the internet

Settings up the internet

The first thing to do is to check your apartment and identify a cable outlet. Once you spot one, check for ISPs operating in the geographical area and compare their plans plus the customer reviews. Once you settle on an ISP and a plan, contact them and have them come and do the installation. If you already have a modem, then ensure that it is compatible with your ISP. ISPs usually provide modems at a monthly fee which will be returned if you switch the Internet Service Provider. You can always buy your own modem and use it every time you move. Besides, you need to buy a wireless route to connect to the modem and route the internet connection throughout your apartment.

Now that you have a modem, router, internet subscription, an Ethernet cable, and a cable outlet, it’s time to set up everything. Make sure everything is switched off before starting and then take your modem and connect it to the cable outlet on the wall. Using the Ethernet cord, connect your modem to the wireless router to provide a connection between the two devices. Now it’s time to power up your devices. Connect both your modem and wireless router to a power outlet and wait for a few minutes for them to fully power on. Watch the lights on your router, if the internet lights turn green then you’re good to go. On your wireless devices like your smartphone, turn on the Wi-Fi and select your Wi-Fi name from the list of available Wi-Fi networks and on it connect. Your ISP will provide you with your network’s name and password. Type in this password and then connect.

What to consider after setting up the internet

Now with the internet set up in your apartment and you’re good to go, there are equally important factors to consider. Your ISP provides you with a default Wi-Fi name and password that can be easily hacked into. Change this default username and password to a stronger and personalized one. For better wireless connection on your devices, consider placing the router in an open and central location without obstructions. For faster connections, if your router supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, then change it to 5 GHz. This will save you from a lot of interferences if you live in a building with other people.

FAQs

Can I limit devices on my Wi-Fi network?

With some routers, as an admin, you can set the maximum number of devices that can connect to the network at a given time.

How do I maximize my internet speeds?

You can upgrade your internet plan or access the internet during off-peak hours.