Are you tired of slow, unreliable internet? Do you dream of seamless streaming, lightning-fast downloads, and lag-free gaming? Then you're in the right place! Verizon offers a range of high-speed internet options, from cutting-edge 5G Home Internet to the powerful fiber-optic Fios. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of applying for Verizon Internet, ensuring you get connected with ease.
Step 1: Discovering Your Verizon Internet Superpower - What's Available?
Before we dive into plans and pricing, the most crucial first step is to see what Verizon internet services are actually available at your specific address. Verizon offers different types of internet, primarily:
Sub-heading: Verizon Fios - The Fiber-Optic Force
Fios is Verizon's gold standard, offering 100% fiber-optic internet directly to your home. This means incredibly fast, symmetrical speeds (upload and download speeds are nearly equal) and super reliability. If Fios is available in your area, it's often the top recommendation for heavy internet users, gamers, and households with many connected devices. Fios is widely available in metro and suburban areas of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic United States.
Sub-heading: Verizon 5G Home Internet - The Wireless Wonder
5G Home Internet leverages Verizon's extensive 5G Ultra Wideband network to bring high-speed internet wirelessly to your home. It's a great option if Fios isn't available, or if you prefer a simpler, plug-and-play setup. While generally not as fast as Fios, it can still deliver impressive speeds for streaming, Browse, and online activities. It's becoming available in more and more cities nationwide.
Sub-heading: Verizon LTE Home Internet - The Reliable Remote Connect
LTE Home Internet uses Verizon's 4G LTE network to provide home broadband, typically in areas where Fios or 5G Home Internet aren't yet available. It offers reliable service for everyday internet use.
Engage with me right now! The quickest way to check availability is to visit the Verizon website. Head over to
Step 2: Choosing Your Perfect Plan - Speed, Price, and Perks!
Once you know what's available, it's time for the fun part: selecting the plan that best fits your needs and budget.
Sub-heading: Understanding Internet Speeds
Internet speeds are typically measured in Megabits per second (Mbps) or Gigabits per second (Gbps). Here's a general idea of what different speeds are good for:
Up to 100 Mbps: Good for basic Browse, email, light streaming on a few devices.
200-500 Mbps: Ideal for households with multiple users, HD streaming, online gaming, and video calls.
1 Gig (1000 Mbps) and above: Perfect for heavy gamers, 4K streaming on multiple devices, large file transfers, and smart homes with numerous connected gadgets.
Sub-heading: Comparing Verizon Fios Plans
Verizon Fios offers a range of fiber-optic plans with symmetrical speeds. Common plans include:
Fios 300 Mbps: A great entry point for most households.
Fios 500 Mbps: For more active users and larger families.
Fios 1 Gig (up to 940 Mbps download / 880 Mbps upload): A popular choice for power users.
Fios 2 Gig (up to 2,300 Mbps download / upload): For the ultimate internet experience.
Prices for Fios plans can range from approximately $49.99/month to $109.00/month, often with Auto Pay discounts. Many Fios plans come with a price lock guarantee for several years (e.g., 2, 3, or 4 years).
Sub-heading: Exploring Verizon 5G Home Internet Plans
5G Home Internet plans offer varying speeds depending on your location and signal strength. You might see options like:
5G Home: Offering speeds generally up to 300 Mbps.
5G Home Plus: With potential speeds up to 1,000 Mbps in select areas.
5G Home Internet plans typically start around $50/month with Auto Pay, with discounts for existing Verizon mobile customers. These plans also often include a price lock guarantee.
Sub-heading: Bundles and Perks
Verizon frequently offers attractive bundles that combine internet with TV or phone services, potentially saving you money. Also, look out for perks like:
Mobile + Home Discount: Significant savings if you're an existing Verizon mobile customer.
Auto Pay and Paper-Free Billing Discount: A common way to reduce your monthly bill.
Streaming Service Bundles: Free or discounted subscriptions to popular services like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Netflix, or Max.
Equipment Included: Most Verizon home internet plans include the necessary router/gateway without extra charges. Some higher-tier plans might even include Wi-Fi extenders.
Take your time here! Carefully consider your household's internet usage habits. Do you stream in 4K? Do multiple people game simultaneously? Are you often on video calls for work? These factors will help you determine the ideal speed.
Step 3: Placing Your Order - Online, Phone, or In-Store
Once you've decided on your plan, it's time to officially apply!
Sub-heading: Ordering Online (Recommended for Deals!)
The Verizon website is often the best place to find the latest deals and promotions, and it's generally the fastest way to place your order.
Navigate to the Internet Section: Go to
.verizon.com/home/internet/ Enter Your Address Again: Confirm your availability one last time.
Select Your Desired Plan: Choose the internet plan you've decided on.
Add Any Bundles or Perks: If you want to add TV, phone, or any special offers, select them now.
Review Your Cart: Double-check your chosen plan, pricing, estimated monthly bill, and any one-time setup fees (Fios may have a $99 installation fee, often waived for online orders; 5G/LTE Home Internet generally has no installation fee).
Provide Personal Information: You'll need to enter your name, contact details (phone number, email address), and billing address.
Credit Check: Verizon will likely perform a credit check. Be prepared to provide your Social Security Number. Depending on your credit, a security deposit might be required (up to $400 in some cases).
Choose Installation Option:
Self-Installation: For 5G Home and LTE Home Internet, this is typically the standard. Your equipment will be shipped to you, and you'll follow simple instructions to set it up yourself. This is usually free.
Professional Installation: For Fios, professional installation is often required as it involves running fiber to your home and setting up the Optical Network Terminal (ONT). You can choose an appointment date and time that works for you.
Confirm Order: Review all the details one final time before submitting your order. You'll receive a confirmation email with your order number and estimated equipment arrival/installation date.
Sub-heading: Ordering by Phone
If you prefer speaking to someone directly, you can call Verizon's sales line. This is also a good option if you have specific questions or unique circumstances.
Verizon Sales: 1-800-258-3411 or 1-800-837-4966 (for Fios). Be prepared to provide your address and discuss your internet needs.
Sub-heading: Ordering In-Store
Visiting a Verizon store can be helpful if you want to see the equipment, discuss options in person, or have an immediate need to sign up. Use the Verizon website to find the nearest store location.
Step 4: Installation and Activation - Getting Connected!
This is where your new internet service comes to life! The process differs slightly depending on whether you chose Fios or 5G/LTE Home Internet.
Sub-heading: For 5G Home & LTE Home Internet (Self-Installation)
This process is generally quick and easy, designed for you to do it yourself.
Receive Your Equipment: Verizon will ship your Internet Gateway (a combined modem and router). It usually arrives within 2-4 business days.
Unbox and Find a Good Spot: Take the Gateway out of the box. Place it on a stable surface near a window where it can get the best cellular signal. Avoid placing it near large metal objects, microwaves, or thick walls.
Power It Up: Connect the power adapter to the Gateway and plug it into a power outlet. The device will start up (blinking white light), and it may take a few minutes (up to 5) for the light to turn solid white, indicating it's connected to the network. If the light turns solid red, try moving the Gateway to a different location.
Connect Your Devices: Once the light is solid white, your Wi-Fi network is active! The Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password will be printed on the bottom of the Gateway. Use this information to connect your computer, phone, smart TV, and other devices. You can also scan a QR code on the device for easy connection.
Download the My Verizon App: This app is incredibly useful for managing your account, checking data usage, troubleshooting, and even changing your Wi-Fi name and password.
Sub-heading: For Verizon Fios (Professional Installation)
Fios installation requires a technician visit, as fiber optic cables need to be run to your home and specialized equipment installed.
Prepare for the Technician:
Ensure someone 18 years or older is present for the entire installation.
Clear a path for the technician to access the utility entry point of your home (often a basement, garage, or closet).
Have a grounded electrical outlet available near where the Optical Network Terminal (ONT) will be installed.
Allow for 4-6 hours for the installation process.
Technician's Work: The Verizon technician will:
Install the Optical Network Terminal (ONT), which is the device that converts the fiber optic signal for your home network.
Install the power supply unit for the ONT.
Connect your Fios router to the ONT using an Ethernet cable (for speeds over 100 Mbps) or coaxial cable (for lower speeds or TV integration).
Help you connect your Wi-Fi devices and ensure the network is functioning.
If you ordered Fios TV, they will connect set-top boxes and ensure TV outlets are wired.
Activate your service.
Router Setup and Wi-Fi Configuration: The technician will set up your Fios router. You can customize your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password through the My Fios app or by accessing the router's admin page (usually
192.168.1.1
).Post-Installation Check: Once the technician leaves, test your internet thoroughly. Run a speed test to ensure you're getting the speeds you signed up for. Connect various devices and confirm everything is working smoothly.
Step 5: Enjoying Your New Verizon Internet!
Congratulations! You're now connected to Verizon's high-speed internet.
Sub-heading: Managing Your Account
My Verizon App: This is your central hub for managing your internet service. You can view your bill, set up Auto Pay, troubleshoot issues, change Wi-Fi settings, and upgrade your plan.
Verizon Website: Log in to your My Verizon account on the website for comprehensive account management.
Sub-heading: Optimizing Your Wi-Fi
Router Placement: Ensure your router is in a central location, away from obstructions and other electronics that might cause interference.
Wi-Fi Extenders: If you have dead zones in your home, consider using Verizon Wi-Fi extenders (some plans include them, or you can purchase them separately).
Wired Connections: For devices that demand the most stable and fastest connection (gaming PCs, smart TVs for 4K streaming), use an Ethernet cable to connect them directly to your router.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check Verizon internet availability at my address?
Quick Answer: Go to
How to find the best Verizon internet plan for my needs?
Quick Answer: Consider your household's internet usage (number of users, streaming habits, gaming, video calls). Then compare Fios and 5G Home Internet plans and their speeds to find one that aligns with your typical activities and budget.
How to get a discount on Verizon internet?
Quick Answer: Look for Auto Pay and paper-free billing discounts, and if you're a Verizon mobile customer, ask about the Mobile + Home Discount. Check for current promotional offers online.
How to self-install Verizon 5G Home Internet?
Quick Answer: Place the Verizon Internet Gateway near a window for the best signal, plug it in, wait for the light to turn solid white, and then connect your devices using the Wi-Fi details on the router's label.
How to prepare for a Verizon Fios professional installation?
Quick Answer: Ensure an adult (18+) is present, clear pathways for the technician, and have a grounded electrical outlet available near where the fiber enters your home.
How to activate my Verizon internet service?
Quick Answer: For self-installation, your service usually activates once the equipment connects successfully. For Fios, the technician will activate it for you during installation. You can also activate online at activate.verizon.com or through the My Verizon app.
How to troubleshoot common Verizon internet issues?
Quick Answer: First, try restarting your router and/or ONT (unplug for 30 seconds, then plug back in). Check the My Verizon app for outage alerts or self-help troubleshooting tools.
How to change my Verizon Wi-Fi name and password?
Quick Answer: You can easily change your Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password using the My Verizon app, or by logging into your router's administration page via a web browser (usually by typing 192.168.1.1
into the address bar).
How to return Verizon internet equipment if I cancel service?
Quick Answer: When you cancel service, Verizon will provide instructions on how to return leased equipment. Often, you'll receive a return label to ship it back or be directed to a Verizon store. Make sure to return it within 30 days of disconnection to avoid unreturned equipment fees.
How to contact Verizon customer service for internet support?
Quick Answer: For Fios sales and service, call 1-800-837-4966. For Mobile, 5G Home, LTE Home sales, call 1-800-225-5499. For general technical support, call 1-800-922-0204. You can also use the My Verizon app for support.