There are a few things to keep in mind when changing Internet service providers. Here we show you exactly what and how you can choose the best provider for you. Because changing DSL doesn't have to be complicated.
1. Check the term of the existing contract and notice periods
Many contracts have a minimum term . As a rule, this is 2 years after a new degree. You can find the duration of your old contract in the contract data. If you do not have this to hand, you can also inquire about the length of your contract via the online portal of your provider or by telephone.
In addition to the minimum term, there are also notice periods that you must adhere to. These depend on the minimum term of your contract and can be up to 12 weeks before the contract expires. However, shorter minimum contract terms are also being debated in the Bundestag. With a timely termination you avoid unnecessary costs. A tip: if your Internet provider suddenly increases the prices, you have the right to terminate prematurely. Then you can take the chance to find a cheaper provider..
2. Compare prices
There are many Internet service providers on the market, but not all are equally expensive. First, think about what your new Internet should be able to do: Do you only need Internet or do you want to book a telephone as well? In the latter case, you should take out a DSL contract. Telephony is also included there. How fast should the internet be? As a rule, a line of 50 Mbit / s is sufficient for a normal household - even with home office. Of course, faster is always better - but also more expensive. If you only use the Internet very sporadically, for example to check your e-mails once a week or to surf on Facebook, you can also book a lower speed.
Comparison portals can also be useful when comparing prices. There not only the prices of as many providers as possible are listed, but the various functions and conditions of the contracts are also discussed. However, you should always be a little critical of comparison portals: You can never be sure that a provider has not simply bought a higher place in the ranking. So don't go by ratings, or just sort them by "price, ascending" or something similar.
Different internet tariffs compared on Geizhals. 3. Cancel the current contract and book a new tariff
As soon as you have decided which provider you want to switch to, you should cancel with your old provider. Before you cancel, check whether you cannot have this arranged directly through your new provider. Many Internet providers give you the option of canceling your old Internet contract directly for you. But watch out: if you cancel because of a price increase, you have to submit the cancellation yourself!
In most cases, you can easily switch to DSL to your new Internet provider via their website, by phone or in a local shop. Simply use the variant that suits you best. You can also find out about special conditions for new customers. Please note that your new connection should be made well in advance of the end of your old contract. This guarantees that you will have the smoothest possible transition without Internet failures..
By the way: If you move, you will in most cases not need a new contract for your new place of residence. Talk to your provider - you can probably just take over the old contract.