The old saying “if it feels too good to be true, then it probably is” can be applied to internet connectivity. Most internet service providers (ISPs) in South Africa will offer various internet packages at competitive prices, but every now and then a deal will pop up that seems to undercut every other option. In these cases, be very aware of the terms in fine print before you sign up.
Sometimes, cheap internet offerings are actually temporary promotions. When the promotion ends, the fees could rise and customers may have to start paying more for the normal services. In addition, an ISP cannot always guarantee the longevity of its low prices if the fibre network operator (FNO) decides to increase its pricing.
Does a low price mean worse internet?
The price of a fibre internet package is almost always linked to the speed and quality of the connection. A more expensive package will offer faster internet speeds with lower latency and more capability. When an ISP advertises an eye-catching deal, be sure to read and understand the terms of the promotion – and check what internet speed is being offered. This will often be a slow connection on a lower-quality line.
Before signing up, do some research on the ISP and look at what their packages normally cost. Compare these with all the competitors in your area and ensure that you’re not signing up for a cheap package now, which will turn into an overpriced package once the promotion ends. This will also prevent you from being slapped with an invoice that suddenly doubles without warning.
Look into the terms of the promotion
Imagine you’re scrolling through social media and an advert pops up with an amazing offer on fibre internet; it’s half the price of what you’re paying now. You get excited at the thought of saving a few bucks. You make the effort to visit the ISPs website in the hopes of signing up for a package, but when you get there, you see that they do not offer fibre in your area or that the promotion does not include your suburb. What a let-down!
They’d rather target new customers in new territory because it’s easier to convince someone to sign up for the first time when they really need internet access. The terms of the promotion will often outline the areas in which the offering is being run. In short, always read the fine print before jumping at excellent prices for fibre internet. For more information about our fibre offerings or to get a quote for an internet upgrade, please contact us today.