For the uninitiated, a naked broadband plan is an internet service plan that does not include a home phone line rental. Also known as standalone or dry loop DSL, this is a standalone DSL internet service that is provided on the local tail or local loop. The standard DSL service uses the same phone line to provide two services: voice and data. In a naked broadband plan, only data service is provided. There is no dial tone. However, it is possible to integrate and utilize Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone service.
If you are in the process of finding a naked broadband plan, consider the following pointers:
Ensure that you really want a Naked Broadband Plan
Before anything else, you have to make sure that you have already considered all the pros and cons and that you have carefully determined that you don’t really need the phone service that comes with a standard DSL plan. There are times when bundled phone+internet services cost less overall. It would be unwise not to take this cost efficiency factor into account.
Use Online Comparisons of Available Plans
While it is true that many of these comparisons online are offered to favor certain companies, there are still others that provide impartial comparisons of the different naked DSL options available to you. You just need to be discerning enough to find which ones are factual and which ones are aimed at deceiving customers. Still, online product comparisons that can be considered partial for certain companies can still serve as a good starting point as you do your research. They can provide the list you can use as reference. You can use the comparison without necessarily believing the facts presented. You can just verify the details on your own.
Be mindful of the Finer Details
You can’t just decide on a naked broadband plan based on information you find on promo materials. You have to go into some technical details. You have to take note of terms such as the real average speed, data caps, introductory deals, additional costs, and add-ons. Choosing a broadband plan isn’t just about the speed and price. There are a number of other details you have to take into account.
Be aware that the advertised speed is not always the speed you will be getting. It will likely be lower most of the time (online tools such as SpeedTest can help you discern your actual speed). That’s why you have to ask the service providers you are considering about the guaranteed speed. Also, get some feedback from other users.
Also, be sure that if you are doing comparisons, you are comparing the normal rates. There are companies that offer introductory deals which entail significantly lower prices to lure new subscribers. There are also companies that offer flexible plans, allowing you to add more services or get “boosts” for additional one-time or recurrent costs.
Moreover, be mindful of data caps. Going for unlimited plans is not necessarily always preferable. It’s possible that your regular usage is well within the data cap and you will be paying significantly less with the data cap compared to opting for an unlimited plan. You have to have a good estimate of your usage. Don’t estimate based on the downloads you do. Data caps are not only for the downloads but also the uploads. For a better estimation, see the stats shown on a modem or router’s dashboard.
Aim for Cost Efficiency
The best broadband plan for you isn’t just something that delivers the best speeds and reliability. Cost also needs to be taken into account. You have to compare prices carefully and realize that broadband service pricing isn’t as simple as it seems. There are some companies that offer flexible schemes that allow you to add more data or speed in case you need more. These schemes might be more cost efficient for you as compared to unlimited plans, although in many cases, unlimited plans tend to be more cost efficient for heavy users.
Also, examine if bundled services can provide advantages for you. An unlimited naked broadband plan with bundled VoIP service might provide a cost advantage. Just be sure that you are not choosing a plan because of the attractive bundles, but because you actually need the bundled services being offered and that it would cost less to choose such a bundle.
Watch out for the Possible Additional Costs
Always clarify if there are additional costs involved. Many customers continue to be surprised upon seeing additional costs in their bills because they have not been informed that they also have to pay for the hardware or the installation. Equipment and installation fees, especially those being amortized over a number of months, are some of the most notorious hidden costs when it comes to broadband plans so be sure to watch out for them.
Consider Customer Service as an Important Factor
Choosing a broadband plan because of its attractive technical features and cost. You must also take customer service into account is never enough. Start by asking feedback from friends or people you know who have tried the plan you are considering to get. You can then refer to feedback and ratings on reputable sites like Consumer Reports. You can also do a survey on social media. Many will surely be eager to share their thoughts, especially those who have negative comments to give.
The best naked broadband plan for you is something reliable, something that suits your need, and is cost effective.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
