Setting Up Internet in Your New Home

Research is key. Major Canadian providers include Bell, Rogers, Telus, Shaw, and Videotron, plus regional providers and smaller resellers.

Pro Tip

Check availability at your exact address before committing. Not all providers service all areas, especially in rural locations. Use online availability checkers or call directly.

Provider Research Checklist

Check which providers service your postal code

Compare download/upload speeds (aim for 50 Mbps minimum)

Review data cap limits (unlimited preferred)

Calculate total monthly cost including taxes and fees

Check contract length and early cancellation fees

Read reviews specific to your neighborhood

Step 2: Schedule Installation

Book installation 2-3 weeks before your move-in date if possible. Technician availability can be limited, especially during peak moving season (May-September).

Installation Preparation

Choose installation date close to move-in day

Confirm if self-install option is available (often cheaper)

Arrange to be home for 4-hour installation window

Ask landlord about existing cable/fiber jacks location

Get confirmation number and technician contact

Step 3: Optimize Router Placement

Where you place your router dramatically affects WiFi coverage. Follow these evidence-based positioning guidelines.

Best Placement Practices

Central location in your home (not in a corner)
Elevated position (shelf or wall mount, 4-6 feet high)
Away from thick walls, metal objects, and appliances
Avoid placing near microwaves, baby monitors, or cordless phones
Keep away from fish tanks and mirrors (signal blockers)

Step 4: Secure Your Network

Don't use the default password printed on your router. Change it immediately after installation.

Network Security Setup

Change default WiFi network name (SSID)

Set strong password (12+ characters, mix of types)

Enable WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 unavailable)

Change router admin password from default

Consider setting up guest network for visitors

Security Warning

Never share your WiFi password with strangers or post it publicly. In Canada, you can be held liable for illegal activities conducted through your internet connection, even if someone else did them using your WiFi.

Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your internet isn't working properly after installation, try these steps before calling support.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Restart modem and router (unplug 30 seconds, plug back in)

Check all cable connections are tight

Verify modem lights match setup guide

Test with ethernet cable directly to modem

Run speed test to confirm advertised speeds

Check for service outages in your area

Step 1: Choose Your Internet Provider

Pro Tip

Provider Research Checklist

Step 2: Schedule Installation

Installation Preparation

Step 3: Optimize Router Placement

Best Placement Practices

Step 4: Secure Your Network

Network Security Setup

Security Warning

Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Money-Saving Tips