Internet service providers (ISPs) have long used extended service contracts as a tool to keep customers on the hook, instead of simply providing a reliable connection, fair pricing and top-notch customer service.

You know the routine. ISPs cram your mailbox and email inbox with limited-time offers, and bundle other services like TV and phone to sweeten the deal. It’s really about their long-term contract. They know you’re unlikely to go through the hassle of switching internet providers once their sweetheart deal ends. Some even make you pay extra to not have a service term.

Consider this: We don’t have to make a long-term agreement to get services like water, gas and electricity delivered to our homes. These days, especially, internet is just as important as these other core services to the families working, schooling and spending more off-time at home.

Let’s unpack this one.

Why long-term contracts are the worst
Long-term commitments give your ISP all the leverage in your relationship with them, leaving you with little recourse if the provider doesn’t live up to the speeds, reliability or service you expect. You’re stuck with them until the end of your contract. Tough luck.

Not to mention, the sweetheart pricing you signed up for is usually only good for the first year. You’ll be stuck paying a lot more than you may have realized until your contract expires. Also, there's no way to try before you buy. What if it doesn’t meet the needs of your household?

What is fiber internet, and is it really better?

Why we cancelled our two-year service commitment
When you have a track record of delivering consistent, symmetrical Gigabit speeds with 99.99 percent uptime and customer-inspired service, people tend to stay. Why leave when the product has proven itself time and again? So, we ditched this requirement. Now every new customer is billed month to month, giving you all the flexibility you need. It takes a different kind of company to do things differently.

Check for fiber internet in your neighborhood.

Nah to the Ah to the NO-NO-NO
Long-term contracts are at the top of the list of things you need to let go. But you should also watch out for ISPs that charge you cancellation fees if you need to break your agreement before the term ends, even if you’re moving. And, of course, always say no to data caps. (We’ve never had ‘em.)

“No long-term contract” is a commitment to a positive customer experience. So jump off the carousel of sneaky pricing and cut the strings attached. As always, our Terms and Conditions are here for you to review any time.

Learn more about C Spire Fiber internet and see if service is available to your home.