Internet connectivity has become the need of the hour. In fact, many consider it a basic necessity that is instrumental in shaping a child’s education and outlook. The federal government recognizes this importance and has introduced discounted credit programs to help cut down the ownership cost of an Internet connection. On that note, here are some useful tips and the best Internet providers that offer student Wi-Fi deals at affordable prices.

Key features to consider while comparing student Wi-Fi plans
Here are the key benefits and features to compare:

• Compare benefits
  Students cannot afford expensive subscriptions, so they should compare telecommunication services that partner with federal government programs to provide high-speed Internet. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is one of the best benefits for students coming from low-income households, currently offering credit for Internet plans.
• Check connection speed
  In today’s day and age of high-fiber-speed Internet connectivity, don’t settle for anything less than 30 Mbps for a basic connection. This is the necessary bandwidth to comfortably connect multiple devices and configure online sessions or lectures in decent streaming quality. If higher bandwidth plans qualify for the subsidy, then you don’t have to worry about bandwidth.
• Consider bundles
  Some service providers also offer bundles applicable to discounted student Wi-Fi plans. These bundles combine Internet and TV streaming services for a single price. So, opt for such plans if the provider offers these additional benefits at no extra charge. However, note that only a few discounted student Wi-Fi plans support bundles as part of the Internet benefit program.

Featured service providers for student Wi-Fi plans
These are the top services that partner with federal programs to offer affordable connectivity solutions:

• Xfinity student Wi-Fi plans
  Xfinity is one of the preferred providers, offering a wide range of Internet plans that students can subscribe to. Xfinity’s reliable connection ensures better bandwidth, allowing you to connect multiple devices and not worry about latency or lag issues. Moreover, the DIY starter kit is easy to install and configure. But the service is mainly preferred by students, owing to Xfinty’s Internet Essentials program, which features two plans priced at $9.95 per month and $29.95 per month, respectively. Get 50 Mbps to 100 Mbps download speed and 10 Mbps to 20 Mbps upload speed with these basic but effective Internet plans. The plan also includes all the accessories and tools for installation without any contractual obligations or lock-in periods. Xfinity partners with colleges and universities to make these discounted plans worth buying. Alternatively, you can check out slightly premium off-campus plans starting at $55 per month that offer multiple services for Internet and streaming under one bundle.
• Cox Communications
  Cox Connect2Compete is a special-access, affordable Internet assistance program that helps students avail themselves of high latency data with no speed restrictions up to 100 Mbps over a secure server. The connection is priced at just $9.95 per month and includes the modem and EasyConnect self-installation kit. This plan is only available to families of students who are currently receiving benefits under the federal government’s K12 Online Public School Programs. Students can connect to attend classes and virtual sessions with uninterrupted and reliable internet connectivity. Most importantly, no term contracts or agreements specify a lock-in period for the subscription. But there is a data cap of 1.25TB on a single connection for the 100 Mbps plan. However, this data cap is rarely breached, so this is a good deal for young children and teenagers in high school.
• Spectrum
  One of the key highlights of Spectrum’s services is the Internet Assist program for low-income households. Working professionals and students alike can easily qualify for discounted Internet plans with 30 Mbps speed on a low-bandwidth server. With the connection, you also get the modem and accessories necessary completely free of charge. And to secure the connection, you will get an antivirus and Internet security suite that comes preinstalled with the kit. So, all told, for $19.99 per month, this is a deal that should not be overlooked. Alternatively, Spectrum also features the Internet 100 plan, in which students and eligible low-income households can avail themselves of reimbursements for existing high-speed plans. The offer applies to Spectrum’s plans ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with a maximum credit of $30 per month over the plan subscription. So, for the basic plan that costs $29.95 per month, pre-qualified applicants can utilize the credit and avail of free Internet with no data cap, speed, or bandwidth restrictions.
• AT&T Internet plans
  AT&T also partners with the federal program, offering affordable Internet connectivity with credit lines up to $30 per month available on all eligible ACP Internet plans. Some of the key highlights include a minimum speed of 100 Mbps, unlimited connectivity, no installation fees, no contact, and no initial deposit. Even the basic equipment used to activate the Internet connection is included in the subscription at no cost. Students can also choose a DSL or fiber connection, depending on the selected plan. Note that the Affordable Connectivity Program benefit can only be used if household income is 200% or below the set limit, according to the federal poverty guidelines. In addition, any family member is already enrolled for qualifying federal assistance. These rules and guidelines will vary from state to state.

Apart from these featured providers, you can check out services like Frontier, Optimum, Mediacom, T-Mobile, and Verizon FIOS. You can avail yourself of discounts on student Wi-Fi plans in the range of $10 to $20 per month, depending on the provider, available plans, and location.

Gone are the days when out of sight was out of mind. Today, thanks to the internet, individuals from entirely different time zones can participate in global events, collaborate for work, or even spend cozy evenings chit-chatting over coffee. Purchasing internet plans from reliable companies can help users reap the benefits of speedy internet at affordable rates. Verizon Communications is one such internet-service provider renowned for its affordable and bespoke internet plans.

Verizon, in a nutshell
Started in 2000, Verizon Communications has emerged as among the world’s leading providers of communication and technology-based services. With a revenue of $133.6 billion in 2021, the company is dedicated to delivering innovative and affordable internet deals and offers, together with voice and video solutions, to its customers worldwide. Simultaneously, the company has been engaging in various activities reflecting its social responsibility, from promoting carbon abatement to facilitating disaster recovery.

Benefits of purchasing Verizon’s internet plans
No hidden charges or annual contracts
One of the significant advantages of opting for Verizon’s internet plans is that it does not entail any hidden costs or annual contracts. Instead, the total amount payable by the client is specified in a transparent process based on the chosen internet package.

No sudden price hikes
Verizon is committed to the policy “the price you see is the price you get,” wherein customers do not have to worry about sudden, surprise price hikes.

Availability of a variety of home internet plans
Verizon Communications offers a wide range of home internet plans, which customers can pick based on their data requirements, usage, and area of residence.

Fast and reliable internet connection
Users of Verizon internet plans can reap the benefits of a speedy and stable internet connection, which are essential home internet requirements.

No equipment charges or data caps
Another benefit of Verizon internet plans is that they do not entail additional costs, such as equipment charges or data caps.

Verizon Internet plans to check out
5G home internet
The next-generation 5G home internet plan provides up to 940 Mbps of data, with an upload speed of up to 50 Mbps, 5G UWB, and a wireless connection. The plan begins at $25 a month, ranging up to $70 a month based on the facilities and features availed.

Fios
With a download speed of up to 940 Mbps, upload speed of 880 Mbps, fiber-optics technology, and Wi-Fi compatible and wired connection types, the Fios internet plan by Verizon is top-rated among customers. The price for Verizon’s Fios internet plan begins at $49.99 per month.

High-speed internet (HSI)
Verizon offers high-speed internet (HSI) plans with download speeds of up to 15 Mbps, upload speeds of up to 1 Mbps, DSL technology, Wi-Fi compatibility, and wired connection options. This powerful network offers 99.9% internet reliability.

Internet equipment provided by Verizon
5G home router
This device is enabled by Amazon Alexa and enables you to control your home Wi-Fi through voice assistance. The router features the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard and is accessible from any part of your home.

Fios router
This tri-band router is immensely powerful and ideal for streaming videos, gaming, and transferring large files. The internet speed is significantly higher than its predecessor routers, and the tri-band 4*4 antennas increase Wi-Fi coverage by over 60%.

Fios extender
The Fios extender is a wireless network adapter that ensures enhanced Wi-Fi coverage in and around your home. The extender features the latest Wi-Fi generation and Wi-Fi 6. It is equipped with several other desirable features, including tri-band 4*4 antennas and self-organizing technology for an enhanced Wi-Fi experience.

Things to consider while choosing your home internet plan
The area you reside in
The availability of home internet plans by Verizon may differ based on your locality or city. Therefore, it is important to check out the availability of internet plans on the Verizon website vis-a-vis the area in which you reside.

The internet usage in your home
Another indispensable factor while choosing a home internet plan is determining your household’s approximate internet usage. For example, purchasing an internet plan offering lesser upload and download speeds may not be suitable for users undertaking frequent uploads and downloads. In contrast, households with limited internet usage may opt for packages with fewer bandwidths or speeds, as such plans may be more affordable.

Your online activities
While selecting an internet plan, it is essential to consider the various online activities you would engage in. It can also help to understand the internet equipment required. For example, households using the internet for video streaming and gaming may opt for high-speed internet plans with a Fios router for the best results.

High-speed internet is a boon in today’s world, which extensively relies on online platforms to stay connected. With Verizon, you can avail of customized home internet plans, with the flexibility to mix and match any TV and internet plan to satisfy your requirements in the best ways possible. Moreover, these plans do not involve any surcharges or broadcast or regional sports network fees, ensuring that users pay only for the services they avail of. You may also change the Fios internet plans each month without any penalties.