Have you cut the cable cord yet? Do you want to know what feels even better? Flexing that tech muscle by setting up your own home network, and sending your rented device back!
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It's common to hit the easy button and have your Service Provider send you rented devices, but the cost adds up! Small financial decisions contribute to larger ones, and I'm sure you've noticed those annoying rental charges on your monthly bill.
So where do you start?
//Phase 1- Breakup
My breakup with cable happened around the same time I decided to stop watching the nightly news. It was depressing! Much like reviewing my monthly service provider bill, I always felt worse afterwards. Can you relate?
If you decide to do the same, you might find yourself on the line with a well-meaning customer service agent asking if there is anything they can do to change your mind? They’ll throw in more channels, they’ll make sure you are getting the best deal, they’ll tell you that you’ll pay more for the Internet and Phone line you may want to keep. “No, it’s not you, it’s me…we are just not watching a lot of television, and this is no longer a good fit”. I decided to beef up our internet bandwidth given we were going to focus on streaming, keep the landline for emergencies & work, and drop cable completely.
// Phase 2- Find Something New
Today, the market has many streaming devices to choose from. When we made the change, we kept it simple by using gaming devices we had on hand. Specifically our Wii and XBOX for a couple years.
Over time we checked out options, and added in a few Amazon Fire Sticks to the household because of the price point, ease of use, as well as portability!
More recently, we've incorporated a couple Smart TV's which have streaming capability built in.
If you’re like me, my hesitation with all of this was wanting access to local channels and the news, without paying for an app. Although I prefer to not watch nightly news, I did want access during election season and for other important events.
The solution was so simple and consisted of picking up a basic indoor GE antenna at a local store for 10 bucks.
The model we chose is a GE Indoor Antenna 33676. The simplistic nature of it reminds me of childhood, and the old turn knob TV we had with only three channels and big old rabbit ears on the back! The model is small though and easy to place behind your TV or off to the side out of sight.
With Netflix, Amazon Prime Movies, YouTube, & Free local stations, we had more than enough options to cover screen time. So this overall streaming change added about $75.00 back to our monthly budget.
// Phase 3- We Can Still Be Good Friends
Great Internet and WiFi coverage is very important in our household as I’m sure it is in yours. This requires a Modem for high-speed internet access, and a Router if you want to broadcast a Wi-Fi signal in your home. We were paying about $14.00 a month for our Internet/Voice equipment rental. Have you checked your statement lately?
To check replacement options, log in to your Internet Service Provider account, and check for compatible Modem options that you can purchase. Xfinity, for example, is very accommodating and provides a search function on their website.
I chose the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem with Voice for Xfinity, along with a router I already had on hand. The NETGEAR provided headroom for increased bandwidth speeds and was really simple to set up.
I purchased my NETGEAR NightHawk off Amazon because it could be delivered in two days, offered free Prime shipping, and was competitively priced. You can also check out BestBuy and other online retailers to make sure you are getting the best deal. You can find multiple options on Amazon HERE.
My router took a few tries, but after a 30-minute call to tech support, and a few power cycles,everything kicked on. The overall install and configuration of both devices took a few hours.
*You’ll want to make sure to log in to your router’s firmware through your browser to change default settings. This includes security settings. Many routers use the address 192.168.1.1, but you’ll need to confirm what is applicable to your modem and router. If you get stuck, just call manufacturer support and they'll walk you through what changes you need to make.
Once both devices are successfully set up, call your provider and let them know which Modem you are using so they can update your account, and stop the monthly fees!
Cha-Ching! The combined savings totaled about $90.00 each month.
Yes, there is an up front investment in these devices, but they pay for themselves quickly.
For additional guidance, you might want to check out this article on WhistleOut, which provides price and feature comparisons, as well as links to providers in your area.
//Phase 4- Box Up & Return
Just like a break-up, returning their stuff within 30 days is the right thing to do and ensures you are not charged.
I know this can all sound intimidating if you are not techie, but it's all very do-able. You can do it, and you'll have major bragging rights!
Thank you for reading. I hope this DIY inspires you to flex that thrifty tech muscle, and contributes to your daily wellness goals!
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Have a beautiful day.
--Work From Home Ninja
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