Century Link Doubled my Bill this morning

[tomwed]

I have auto pay and this morning my bill doubled from 43 to 86. I only have internet. I chatted and my only option is to contact the retention center.

What should I expect?
Is there a better deal for me going on with another company?

I can survive on internet only but i have added directtv digital for $30----so my total bill was 43+30.

Any advice?

new information

it looks like i can get xnfinity for $35 a month including tv-----i'm about to sign up. is there a hitch? like i can't quit for 20 years

is there a hitch with century link---will they let me quit after I pay my $86 bill?

[HiHoSteveO]

Are you sure that your autopay didn't somehow get missed last month?
Too much of a coincidence that your bill exactly doubled.

Besides I don't think even high priced Comcast charges that much for internet only.

[leftyf]

The $45 for life is what we have, but I don't know how long CL will actually honor it.

[tomwed]

Are you sure that your autopay didn't somehow get missed last month?
Too much of a coincidence that your bill exactly doubled.

Besides I don't think even high priced Comcast charges that much for internet only.I didn't post the exact prices. I just got off of centurylink chat line and they said my plan ended orr i didn't sign up for a new year on time for the 43 rate.

I opened up the incognito window and went to xfinity and that was the rate quoted. i haven't read the fine print yet.

i was hoping that someone just went through all this and i could benefit from their recent experience

thank-you

[tomwed]

The $45 for life is what we have, but I don't know how long CL will actually honor it.

look into that---it's no longer available online if i understood the chatline

[mfp509]

My bill went up 30+ dollars. Sick of this. My neighbors got an antenna and are very happy with it. Few hundred dollars one time installation fee. I'm going to check it out.

[billethkid]

Seems many folks sign up at introductory rates and when they expire go to standard pricing. Viewing the change as a price increase when in fact it was what was signed up for. We all forget the warning that comes with the signing of the contract, that the price goes up at the end of the deal.

One can always get a better deal by cancelling their current service and going with a new provider. A neighbor of ours cancelled their Dish net work which was around a hundred dollars per month. Had his wife open a new customer order.....got their introductory plan, 160 + locals for $59 per month locked in for two years!!!!!!!

There is obviously a higher priority for these providers to try to attract a new customer than retain the current subscribers.

One just has to take the time to play the game and find the best deal.

A status the providers have created.....makes no sense.
They are all struggling with the current evolution to streaming and fiber optic technologies.

Take the time and shop/compare.

[tomwed]

It looks like I will be cancelling century link today. Did anyone get a hard time on the phone doing this? will ther be a cancillation fee? I just signed up temporarily with xfinity for $35 a month including channels and a couple of freebies---I think it also goes down to $5 with autopay.

[this sounds to good to be true and you know what they say---unfortunately i forgot what they say---i think it's something about xfinity making an ass out of me]

[Chatbrat]

Just got off the phone with Century link--looks like they will no longer be offering any discounts for PRISM, their video will be with Direct TV--

No my question is there an alternative besides Comcast for video in Tamarind Grove , we have 5 TV's and only the real big one is a smart TV

[tomwed]

Just got off the phone with Century link--looks like they will no longer be offering any discounts for PRISM, their video will be with Direct TV--

No my question is there an alternative besides Comcast for video in Tamarind Grove , we have 5 TV's and only the real big one is a smart TV
open an incognito window if you can and check out xfinity

i think i just signed up for $35/month more or less for tv and internet

[leftyf]

We do have a TV antenna in the attic that works great, but the wife just won't give up cable. We have CL and had to take Direct TV. It's only on the TV in the living room though.

[Lottoguy]

Ask to use the retroactive promotion of "one price for life" that came out a few months ago. What happened to you sounds like a major screw up on their part.

[thetruth]

I have auto pay and this morning my bill doubled from 43 to 86. I only have internet. I chatted and my only option is to contact the retention center.

What should I expect?
Is there a better deal for me going on with another company?

I can survive on internet only but i have added directtv digital for $30----so my total bill was 43+30.

Any advice?

new information

it looks like i can get xnfinity for $35 a month including tv-----i'm about to sign up. is there a hitch? like i can't quit for 20 years

is there a hitch with century link---will they let me quit after I pay my $86 bill?

I wonder why we do not/cannot negotiate as a group and get far better service and prices.

Old school perhaps-we do not do auto-pay by doing so you give up power/control. You are obviously carefully watching your bills so how much extra time would it take to draft a check?

Introductory deals-it is like a drug dealer. They get you hooked and then the gotcha. You can bet they have all kinds of reports as to how many people remember to cancel the free whatever. You who careflly watch your accounts-well they gothcha.

As to account retention. In plainspeak that is their SALES DEPARTMENT.

By the way, we have century link. We investigated the other options. They told us we would have to go for a two year contract. I did NOT SIGN anything. A contract is void if COMCAST not not for-fill their side days after out new,"contract," started our service went out. It is noted in my files. The chance of comecast providing UNINTERRUPTED service for two years-IS ZERO.

[tomwed]

Ask to use the retroactive promotion of "one price for life" that came out a few months ago. What happened to you sounds like a major screw up on their part.
with cl i was/am paying $43/month plus digital direct tv that went from a $15/month promotion to now $30

so my tv and internet bill was 43+30=73

now its going down to $35/month xfinity with a lot more channels--

[billethkid]

open an incognito window if you can and check out xfinity

i think i just signed up for $35/month more or less for tv and internet

$35 per month for cable AND internet from Comcast does not sound right.
$35 for one or the other would be a good deal!!!
Both for $35.......I would need to do some checking!

[tomwed]

$35 per month for cable AND internet from Comcast does not sound right.
$35 for one or the other would be a good deal!!!
Both for $35.......I would need to do some checking!
please check-
I know you are not calling me a liar. I'm not that. But I have been fooled before and if you can find out where the con is or contract trick is I would really appreciate your help.



--open in an ingonito window and go to xfinity---tell me what you see---this is what i see

Back
Xfinity Instant TV and Performance Starter Internet
34.99 dollars per month
$
34
99/mo
for 12 months
with 1-Year Agreement.
$29.99/mo. for 12 mos. with 1 year agreement and autopay and ecobill enrollment.
Check Availability
Pricing & Other Info
Base Package
Internet
TV
Other Info
Base Package
INTERNET
Up to 25 Mbps Download Speeds

TV
10+ Channels

CONTRACT
1-Year AgreementiContract Information

DETAILS
STARZ®, CINEMAX®, & SHOWTIME® included for 12 mos.HD service included - no TV box requiredOption to add new, flexible channel packsCloud DVR (20 hours of storage)
XFINITY Internet
DOWNLOAD SPEEDS
Up to 25 Mbps Download Speeds

FEATURES
Good for social networking & surfing
An XFINITY Internet Data Usage Plan may apply.

XFINITY TV
CHANNEL LINEUP
View Full Lineup
10+ Channels
FEATURES
Get the top networks including NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX, and CWWatch your favorite shows and hit movies On Demand
Our Promise and Other Info
CUSTOMER COMMITMENT

30-day money-back guarantee
24/7 support and easy-to-use self service apps
Guaranteed 2-hour appointment window
PRICING & OTHER INFO
The offer you selected is eligible for a $5 monthly discount during the term of the Agreement if you enroll in EcoBill paperless billing and automatic payments through Comcast’s self-service online tool via Signing Up for EcoBill Paperless Billing (http://www.Xfinity.com/ecobill). The discount will appear on your bill within 45 days of enrolling in EcoBill paperless billing and automatic payments. If either EcoBill paperless billing or automatic payments is subsequently cancelled during the term of the Agreement, the $5 monthly discount will be removed automatically. Offer ends 06/21/18. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to Xfinity Instant TV and Performance Starter Internet service. 1-year minimum term agreement required. Early termination fee applies if all Xfinity services (except for Xfinity Mobile) are cancelled during the agreement term. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $8/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $6.75/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after the promo. After promo, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast's monthly service charge for Performance Starter Internet is $49.95 and Xfinity Instant TV is $10.00 (subject to change). Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Up to two simultaneous streams per account. Not all programming available in all areas. Standard data charges apply to app download and usage. Check with your carrier. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee applies to one month's recurring service charge and standard installation up to $500. Call for restrictions and complete details. ©2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.

Click To Chat

[blueash]

It looks like I will be cancelling century link today. Did anyone get a hard time on the phone doing this? will ther be a cancillation fee? I just signed up temporarily with xfinity for $35 a month including channels and a couple of freebies---I think it also goes down to $5 with autopay.

[this sounds to good to be true and you know what they say---unfortunately i forgot what they say---i think it's something about xfinity making an ass out of me]

It does not go down TO $5 it goes down by $5. They save the cost of billing you and get paid on time.

[Chatbrat]

Since it looks like Xfinity is teamed up with Comcast--they're a no go for us--customer service is key, then reliability, then $$

[Harry Gilbert]

From the fine print:


Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $8/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $6.75/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after the promo. After promo, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast's monthly service charge for Performance Starter Internet is $49.95 and Xfinity Instant TV is $10.00 (subject to change). Service limited to a single outlet.

So after the 12 month initial sign up you bill will go up to $60 plus all the fees and taxes they can add on not including equipment charges. rental modem @ $10 per month plus whatever they charge for set top boxes, DVR etc. Also that is the slowest internet connection speed they offer

[Harry Gilbert]

Since it looks like Xfinity is teamed up with Comcast--they're a no go for us--customer service is key, then reliability, then $$


Xfinity is comcast. Just the name they give their service.

[Topspinmo]

Seems many folks sign up at introductory rates and when they expire go to standard pricing. Viewing the change as a price increase when in fact it was what was signed up for. We all forget the warning that comes with the signing of the contract, that the price goes up at the end of the deal.

One can always get a better deal by cancelling their current service and going with a new provider. A neighbor of ours cancelled their Dish net work which was around a hundred dollars per month. Had his wife open a new customer order.....got their introductory plan, 160 + locals for $59 per month locked in for two years!!!!!!!

There is obviously a higher priority for these providers to try to attract a new customer than retain the current subscribers.

One just has to take the time to play the game and find the best deal.

A status the providers have created.....makes no sense.
They are all struggling with the current evolution to streaming and fiber optic technologies.

Take the time and shop/compare.


160 channels and 149 are worthless, all the good channels comes on packages, course at higher rate.

[tomwed]

i just found this too
i do appreciate everyones advice

INTERNET ONLY PLANS
If you are considering an internet-only plan, be sure to compare with the bundle deals above. Sometimes Xfinity offers TV or Phone service for just a few dollars more than stand-alone internet.
$29.99/mo for PERFORMANCE
60 Mbps ↓ and 5.0 Mbps ↑
1-year promo rate. Regular rate is $74.95.
Some areas have a 1TB data cap.

I also hate comcast----the only easy phone call is the one where you buy it-----but if i can get what i want for $35 a month,,,why not

how long would a TB cap last if I'm line quite a bit

[tomwed]

It does not go down TO $5 it goes down by $5. They save the cost of billing you and get paid on time.you said what i meant to say,,,,it goes down by
$5

[theorem painter]

It does not go down TO $5 it goes down by $5. They save the cost of billing you and get paid on time.

And if you change your credit card you lose the $5 auto pay credit. They are all thieves!

[Nucky]

CL did the exact thing to me several months ago. I called to cancel and they said $45 a month for life. I told them I live in the Fred Flintstone area with DSL and slower speed. I pay $35 a month all in, taxes fee’s all charges. If you speak with them easily they take advantage. They put in on my credit card and I auto pay that card each month thru my bill pay. TOM, if you still can work it out with CL.

[tomwed]

From the fine print:


Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $8/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $6.75/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after the promo. After promo, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast's monthly service charge for Performance Starter Internet is $49.95 and Xfinity Instant TV is $10.00 (subject to change). Service limited to a single outlet.

So after the 12 month initial sign up you bill will go up to $60 plus all the fees and taxes they can add on not including equipment charges. rental modem @ $10 per month plus whatever they charge for set top boxes, DVR etc. Also that is the slowest internet connection speed they offerevery year i seem to go with another service for the best deal.

[perrjojo]

I am always surprised with the dislike for Comcast. We have had Comcast for more than 20 years. 15 in Georgia and more than 6 here. We have had very few problems.

[tomwed]

I am always surprised with the dislike for Comcast. We have had Comcast for more than 20 years. 15 in Georgia and more than 6 here. We have had very few problems.How much are you paying per month?

[queasy27]

I pay $75/month for Internet only through Centurylink. It was of course half that for the first year but then shot up. I hate sparring with customer support/retention staff, and renewing at a lower price would no doubt lock me into another 2-year contract.

My current speed is only 20mbps, but the thought of changing numerous online account logins, notifying friends of the new email address, buying a new router, etc. exhausts me. My retrospective advice to myself would be to use an online email service instead of an ISP specific .centurylink or .comcast address.

[tomwed]

I pay $75/month for Internet only through Centurylink. It was of course half that for the first year but then shot up. I hate sparring with customer support/retention staff, and renewing at a lower price would no doubt lock me into another 2-year contract.

My current speed is only 20mbps, but the thought of changing numerous online account logins, notifying friends of the new email address, buying a new router, etc. exhausts me. My retrospective advice to myself would be to use an online email service instead of an ISP specific .centurylink or .comcast address.I don't mean to add to your load. You can forward your CL email to gmail. But that's another learning curve.
I do appreciate your angst dealing with a retention team when they know a lot more then you do and they know it. I think I am well on my way for getting a faster speed then you have in addition to a bunch of channels for no more then $45 including hidden costs. At 3pm xfinity [comcast] was supposed to call me to finish the deal. they didn't, part of a day wasted.

[Chatbrat]

Another reason to stay away from Comcast-Xfinity--the worst customer service on record--if something goes wrong you are SOL==again we kept them for 6 weeks--that was back in 2011, when we moved to TV

[perrjojo]

For those bashing Comcast customer service, did you know they know have an office in the Shopping center at 441 and Rolling Acres? Real people that you can talk to.

[perrjojo]

How much are you paying per month?
We have internet, cable and phone. There are so many variables that it would be difficult to compare prices. I can say that when a contract price runs out they are very willing to negotiate a new price.

[tomwed]

For those bashing Comcast customer service, did you know they know have an office in the Shopping center at 441 and Rolling Acres? Real people that you can talk to.
good advice

[billethkid]

[QUOTE=tomwed;1549360]please check-
I know you are not calling me a liar. I'm not that. But I have been fooled before and if you can find out where the con is or contract trick is I would really appreciate your help.[QUOTE]


Of course I did not/was not.....did not enter the thought process one bit.

[tomwed]

[QUOTE=tomwed;1549360]please check-
I know you are not calling me a liar. I'm not that. But I have been fooled before and if you can find out where the con is or contract trick is I would really appreciate your help.[QUOTE]


Of course I did not/was not.....did not enter the thought process one bit.
We agree. I respect your judgement and was hoping you would look into the contract as you suggested so that I might get some insight on something I overlooked.

[Trishakaye]

we're cutting the attachment to cable tv slowly. Down to 1 tv and internet. Using Roku for other tv's. Soon will cut ties altogether and will try YouTube TV

[PennBF]

Our experience has been that we have DirectTV, AT&T Cell phones and an AT&T box ($20 per month) that uses the internet for our home phone. We then have Comcast for our internet with a router that we own. Last month they (Comcast) sent me for a bill of $79 and I called them. In net it has been reduced to $44 per month as long as I allow a non paper billing.. I also get 100MB on the Internet.
I would suggest that the resident that had received a double billing to go to the nearest Seniors vs Crime office and fill out a complaint against Century Link. You have nothing to lose and may wake them up. Your complaint allegedly will be sent directly to the Florida Attorney General's office and I believe they will send it to Century Link for resolution.:ho:

[tomwed]

Our experience has been that we have DirectTV, AT&T Cell phones and an AT&T box ($20 per month) that uses the internet for our home phone. We then have Comcast for our internet with a router that we own. Last month they (Comcast) sent me for a bill of $79 and I called them. In net it has been reduced to $44 per month as long as I allow a non paper billing.. I also get 100MB on the Internet.
I would suggest that the resident that had received a double billing to go to the nearest Seniors vs Crime office and fill out a complaint against Century Link. You have nothing to lose and may wake them up. Your complaint allegedly will be sent directly to the Florida Attorney General's office and I believe they will send it to Century Link for resolution.:ho:
Are you saying your comcast bill 79-44=$35 including 100MB of internet? thank-you

[UpNorth]

we're cutting the attachment to cable tv slowly. Down to 1 tv and internet. Using Roku for other tv's. Soon will cut ties altogether and will try YouTube TV

Smart move - more people are cutting the cord every day. That's why cable companies aren't in the mood to bargain anymore. They need the big bucks from those still hooked on cable. We just buy internet and stream all our television, including the local channels. YouTube TV is a great choice. You may want to put an OTA antenna on your roof in case the internet goes down. Free TV all the time.

[Ooper]

Century Link also just nearly doubled my bill. After talking to 2 different representatives at 2 different times, they were adamant that they were not going to help reduce the bill at all. So after calling another service provider and having them come and install their service, I called CL back to arrange for them to send me a mailing label to send back their equipment. Well... all of a sudden they wanted to know why we stopped them and if we couldn't continue their service at the same price we were paying. I asked them why they didn't offer that deal the last 2 times I called. I refused and as far as I'm concerned, they screwed themselves. We liked the service and would have gladly kept it if they had offered the reduction to begin with. Right now I have a 2-year contract with my new provider and then I will be expecting to play their game again when this contract runs out.

[tomwed]

Century Link also just nearly doubled my bill. After talking to 2 different representatives at 2 different times, they were adamant that they were not going to help reduce the bill at all. So after calling another service provider and having them come and install their service, I called CL back to arrange for them to send me a mailing label to send back their equipment. Well... all of a sudden they wanted to know why we stopped them and if we couldn't continue their service at the same price we were paying. I asked them why they didn't offer that deal the last 2 times I called. I refused and as far as I'm concerned, they screwed themselves. We liked the service and would have gladly kept it if they had offered the reduction to begin with. Right now I have a 2-year contract with my new provider and then I will be expecting to play their game again when this contract runs out.thank-you for taking the time---did you go with xfinity? they all play games and if you play along and don't take it personally i think you can get more then your neighbors.

[Nucky]

I just saw the post about 100 jiggawatts for $45 ish. I just called Comcast and I swear I got disconnected on the call to try and line up service. This is bringing back bad memories, really bad memories. Enough for today. Lets see what tomorrow brings. Good night.

[fw102807]

We had problems with their billing dept since day one. They sent the bill to the CL email address which is not what we signed up for. We kept getting late notices (which they snail mailed) for bills we never got. When we cancelled it was just as bad and we are still fighting with them. They emailed the final bill to this account we could no longer even access.

[wendyquat]

I pay $75/month for Internet only through Centurylink. It was of course half that for the first year but then shot up. I hate sparring with customer support/retention staff, and renewing at a lower price would no doubt lock me into another 2-year contract.

My current speed is only 20mbps, but the thought of changing numerous online account logins, notifying friends of the new email address, buying a new router, etc. exhausts me. My retrospective advice to myself would be to use an online email service instead of an ISP specific .centurylink or .comcast address.

I don’t mind call8ng once per year to renew the discount to save $40 per month! My last call they volunteered the $45 for life with NO CONTRACT.

[ColdNoMore]

We have internet, cable and phone. There are so many variables that it would be difficult to compare prices. I can say that when a contract price runs out they are very willing to negotiate a new price.

Yep.

I've just been paying my Comcast/XFINITY monthly bill (using bill pay every month through my bank, never on automatic pay because I've heard too many horror stories on trying to stop it once you start) but haven't really looked at the bill in a while...until this thread.

I can see now where there are some things I can do without (one of them being the landline I'm paying for, but which I don't even have one hooked up in the house...and only use cell phones).

But even with 'Extreme 105 Internet/multiple boxes/HD Technology Fee/Digital Preferred/Netflix/Etc'.... $235 a month (before movie rentals) seems high.

Now the next battle will be trying to reduce the things I don't use...without losing the stuff I do use/want.

But hey, it could be worse I guess, as my monthly bill includes a $39.95 reduction...because of a 'bundle package discount.' :oops:

I guess it's time to give Comcast/XFINITY a call and threaten with changing companies, but in doing some research (and reading the threads here) I have yet to see a consensus on which company is consistently better...and doesn't have their own issues. :shrug:

[PennBF]

It is $44 down from 79:wave:

[joldnol]

"They wouldn't do that"

[tomwed]

What I thought was a router/modem turned out to be just a router. So I can't connect to xfinity until I have my own router modem or rent one.
Can I buy a router/modem in wallmart? What one works with xfinity/comcast?

Does anyone know how much a terabyte of data is? If I were to run netflix 24 hours a day and it uses 3 gb per hour or 72 gb per day x 30 days =2,160 gb.
or 2.16 TB. Xfinity has a limit of 1 TB before overage charges are applied. Xfinity told me all ISP's have a 1 TB limit.

I found what I was looking for.
Frustrated with Data Caps? Find Out Which Providers Limit Your Data and Why | CableTV.com (https://www.cabletv.com/blog/which-brands-have-data-caps/)

These are the channels I will be getting and watching them does not count towards the cap [limit].
Starter 140 Limit
https://www.xfinity.com/learn/channel-lineup

[fw102807]

What I thought was a router/modem turned out to be just a router. So I can't connect to xfinity until I have my own router modem or rent one.
Can I buy a router/modem in wallmart? What one works with xfinity/comcast?

Does anyone know how much a terabyte of data is? If I were to run netflix 24 hours a day and it uses 3 gb per hour or 72 gb per day x 30 days =2,160 gb.
or 2.16 TB. Xfinity has a limit of 1 TB before overage charges are applied. Xfinity told me all ISP's have a 1 TB limit.

I found what I was looking for.
Frustrated with Data Caps? Find Out Which Providers Limit Your Data and Why | CableTV.com (https://www.cabletv.com/blog/which-brands-have-data-caps/)

These are the channels I will be getting and watching them does not count towards the cap [limit].
Starter 140 Limit
https://www.xfinity.com/learn/channel-lineup

You can get one on Amazon

XFINITY My New Modem (http://mynewmodem.xfinity.com/)

[Bogie Shooter]

please check-
I know you are not calling me a liar. I'm not that. But I have been fooled before and if you can find out where the con is or contract trick is I would really appreciate your help.



--open in an ingonito window and go to xfinity---tell me what you see---this is what i see

Back
Xfinity Instant TV and Performance Starter Internet
34.99 dollars per month
$
34
99/mo
for 12 months
with 1-Year Agreement.
$29.99/mo. for 12 mos. with 1 year agreement and autopay and ecobill enrollment.
Check Availability
Pricing & Other Info
Base Package
Internet
TV
Other Info
Base Package
INTERNET
Up to 25 Mbps Download Speeds

TV
10+ Channels

CONTRACT
1-Year AgreementiContract Information

DETAILS
STARZ®, CINEMAX®, & SHOWTIME® included for 12 mos.HD service included - no TV box requiredOption to add new, flexible channel packsCloud DVR (20 hours of storage)
XFINITY Internet
DOWNLOAD SPEEDS
Up to 25 Mbps Download Speeds

FEATURES
Good for social networking & surfing
An XFINITY Internet Data Usage Plan may apply.

XFINITY TV
CHANNEL LINEUP
View Full Lineup
10+ Channels
FEATURES
Get the top networks including NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX, and CWWatch your favorite shows and hit movies On Demand
Our Promise and Other Info
CUSTOMER COMMITMENT

30-day money-back guarantee
24/7 support and easy-to-use self service apps
Guaranteed 2-hour appointment window
PRICING & OTHER INFO
The offer you selected is eligible for a $5 monthly discount during the term of the Agreement if you enroll in EcoBill paperless billing and automatic payments through Comcast’s self-service online tool via Signing Up for EcoBill Paperless Billing (http://www.Xfinity.com/ecobill). The discount will appear on your bill within 45 days of enrolling in EcoBill paperless billing and automatic payments. If either EcoBill paperless billing or automatic payments is subsequently cancelled during the term of the Agreement, the $5 monthly discount will be removed automatically. Offer ends 06/21/18. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. New residential customers only. Limited to Xfinity Instant TV and Performance Starter Internet service. 1-year minimum term agreement required. Early termination fee applies if all Xfinity services (except for Xfinity Mobile) are cancelled during the agreement term. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees, including Broadcast TV Fee (up to $8/mo.), Regional Sports Fee (up to $6.75/mo.) and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and after the promo. After promo, or if any service is cancelled or downgraded, regular rates apply. Comcast's monthly service charge for Performance Starter Internet is $49.95 and Xfinity Instant TV is $10.00 (subject to change). Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other offers. TV: Up to two simultaneous streams per account. Not all programming available in all areas. Standard data charges apply to app download and usage. Check with your carrier. Internet: Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed. 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee applies to one month's recurring service charge and standard installation up to $500. Call for restrictions and complete details. ©2018 Comcast. All rights reserved.

Click To Chat
Go to the xfinity store in Lady Lake. Talk to a real person and have them explain what you are getting.
I dealt with them when my "special rate" expired, low and behold the found an even better deal at less cost.
Its so much easier to speak directly to a person in the store.
BTW you are going to be amazed at what Xfinity has to offer...………….

[Bogie Shooter]

I am always surprised with the dislike for Comcast. We have had Comcast for more than 20 years. 15 in Georgia and more than 6 here. We have had very few problems.

I have had the same experience here in TV.

[Bogie Shooter]

Another reason to stay away from Comcast-Xfinity--the worst customer service on record--if something goes wrong you are SOL==again we kept them for 6 weeks--that was back in 2011, when we moved to TV

I have never experienced this with Comcast!

[Bogie Shooter]

Yep.

I've just been paying my Comcast/XFINITY monthly bill (using bill pay every month through my bank, never on automatic pay because I've heard too many horror stories on trying to stop it once you start) but haven't really looked at the bill in a while...until this thread.

I can see now where there are some things I can do without (one of them being the landline I'm paying for, but which I don't even have one hooked up in the house...and only use cell phones).

But even with 'Extreme 105 Internet/multiple boxes/HD Technology Fee/Digital Preferred/Netflix/Etc'.... $235 a month (before movie rentals) seems high.

Now the next battle will be trying to reduce the things I don't use...without losing the stuff I do use/want.

But hey, it could be worse I guess, as my monthly bill includes a $39.95 reduction...because of a 'bundle package discount.' :oops:

I guess it's time to give Comcast/XFINITY a call and threaten with changing companies, but in doing some research (and reading the threads here) I have yet to see a consensus on which company is consistently better...and doesn't have their own issues. :shrug:

I suggest rather than calling....go to their new store in Lady Lake.

[Ooper]

thank-you for taking the time---did you go with xfinity? they all play games and if you play along and don't take it personally i think you can get more then your neighbors.

Yup!

[Nucky]

I have never experienced this with Comcast!

You are very fortunate that you have never had a problem with Comcast. It is almost clear to me I would be better off with Comcast over Century link price wise and speed wise but that isn't the most important thing to me. They traumatized me so badly a long time ago that I turned down a $400 or $500 Visa card to switch last summer like all my neighbors did.

I'm going to the store out of curiosity. I'll report back tomorrow.:ohdear:

[perrjojo]

You are very fortunate that you have never had a problem with Comcast. It is almost clear to me I would be better off with Comcast over Century link price wise and speed wise but that isn't the most important thing to me. They traumatized me so badly a long time ago that I turned down a $400 or $500 Visa card to switch last summer like all my neighbors did.

I'm going to the store out of curiosity. I'll report back tomorrow.:ohdear:

I always wonder who “they” are? Do “they” even still work there?

[ColdNoMore]

I suggest rather than calling....go to their new store in Lady Lake.

Actually...a good suggestion.

[Chatbrat]

Went to the new store for Comcast, cost is a little less than my CLm, but with CL not supporting Prism anymore Xfinity is the only non satellite alternative--theyalso throw in Netflix for free till June 7th, $5.00 discount for auto pay & paperless billing

Only two wireless sets available per installation and charge $60.00--to install each wireless unit

[Nucky]

I always wonder who “they” are? Do “they” even still work there?

They means Comcast as a Company. The one incident that stick out the most was the waiting at home with no phone, internet or television for two days before they showed up. I do not have names as it was ten years ago. That's who THEY were. THEY did suck. If Bogie Shooter says give them a shot. I would say they do get a shot.

I just got back from the Comcast store and the person I spoke with was very nice. Their plan sounds great. :cryin2:

I sticking with CenturyLink. Done Deal.

[Chatbrat]

Met Nucky @ the store--don't like the equipment Xfinity uses--really love wireless boxes-anything that lessens the wire clutter, makes life easier and when we have a guest--we transfer the TV to the guest bedroom

may stick with CL,too

[toeser]

The $45 for life is what we have, but I don't know how long CL will actually honor it.

I wish CenturyLink in TV wasn't so darn outdated for Internet service. I was told I couldn't expect more than about 10mb - 12mb. In snowbird land, I get 60mb service for $45 per month.

[biker1]

Some of the older sections might still have DSL (older copper-based broadband technology) but most of The Villages has fiber optic cable to the house with CenturyLink - the latest and greatest.



I wish CenturyLink in TV wasn't so darn outdated for Internet service. I was told I couldn't expect more than about 10mb - 12mb. In snowbird land, I get 60mb service for $45 per month.

[Proslayer]

get a Roku for your other 4 tv's. Simple!

[Suzette]

I have xfinitey internet only for $39 per month for 1 year contract. It will go up to over $70 in one year unless I call and try to renegotiate. I may go to Centurylink with the life lock in price just to not have to renegotiate every 11 months. You need to check fine print in contract.

[ffresh]

What many folks aren't aware of is that if you "contract" for internet only, there are no extra costs/fees on your monthly bill - not even tax. As soon as you sign up for TV of any tier level, several fees and additional costs are added onto your monthly charge. Internet only is the service I have in Pittsburgh, as well as our house in Tall Trees … $69 for FIOS 75mbps in PIT (Very hi-tech "ac" gateway provided @ no adnl cost) and $45 for Xfinity 100 mbps in TV (Very hi-tech "ac" gateway provided @ $11 adnl = $56 cost/mo. ). A "gateway" is the new term for a combo cable modem/wireless router w/ 4 ethernet ports also on mine. The $11 rental seems a bit high to some, I'm sure, vs buying your own, but I am a snowbird and suspend my service for almost half the year for $8/mo. charge (NO modem rental fee during the suspension). Incidentally, Xfinity reduced my "auto-pay" bill by $5/mo. with no action on my part and any interaction I had with the company was very pleasant. At first they said I had to have an installer for $60 since I was a new customer but I enrolled online and signed up for the "self-install" package and obviated that cost. My telephone is VOIP, MajicJack which I carry back and forth for "same phone number" tele service. I don't watch much TV (I prefer to watch life happening) but my wife & I enjoy a good movie, what few there are these days and we have Amazon Prime and Hoopla (free movie streaming) from Sumter Library as members, even here in PIT - https://www.hoopladigital.com/
We have some smart TVs and others with streaming devices. I haven't tried YouTube movie subscription but I LOVE the political channels and documentaries they have on the regular site.


FredF

[genobambino]

What ever you do don't sign up with Century Link, they are even worse than AT&T

[tomwed]

I have not made the switch from CL to xfinity yet. I'm still looking at my options. Does anyone know if a actiontec c1000a that is made for century link will also work with xfinity? It looks like it won't.

[Morgkell]

I was getting the total run around with century link! 5 different people, 5 different quotes! Had a. I’m cast rep out to the house and he got us all set up with no contract for a much cheaper rate and I have a person to call if there are any problems. He even paid to the set up fee himself.

[ffresh]

I have not made the switch from CL to xfinity yet. I'm still looking at my options. Does anyone know if a actiontec c1000a that is made for century link will also work with xfinity? It looks like it won't.

https://mydeviceinfo.xfinity.com/

just enter your zip code and anticipated speed you desire!

FredF

[tomwed]

What many folks aren't aware of is that if you "contract" for internet only, there are no extra costs/fees on your monthly bill - not even tax. As soon as you sign up for TV of any tier level, several fees and additional costs are added onto your monthly charge. Internet only is the service I have in Pittsburgh, as well as our house in Tall Trees … $69 for FIOS 75mbps in PIT (Very hi-tech "ac" gateway provided @ no adnl cost) and $45 for Xfinity 100 mbps in TV (Very hi-tech "ac" gateway provided @ $11 adnl = $56 cost/mo. ). A "gateway" is the new term for a combo cable modem/wireless router w/ 4 ethernet ports also on mine. The $11 rental seems a bit high to some, I'm sure, vs buying your own, but I am a snowbird and suspend my service for almost half the year for $8/mo. charge (NO modem rental fee during the suspension). Incidentally, Xfinity reduced my "auto-pay" bill by $5/mo. with no action on my part and any interaction I had with the company was very pleasant. At first they said I had to have an installer for $60 since I was a new customer but I enrolled online and signed up for the "self-install" package and obviated that cost. My telephone is VOIP, MajicJack which I carry back and forth for "same phone number" tele service. I don't watch much TV (I prefer to watch life happening) but my wife & I enjoy a good movie, what few there are these days and we have Amazon Prime and Hoopla (free movie streaming) from Sumter Library as members, even here in PIT - https://www.hoopladigital.com/
We have some smart TVs and others with streaming devices. I haven't tried YouTube movie subscription but I LOVE the political channels and documentaries they have on the regular site.


FredFYou seem to have a much better grasp of the subject then I do. And by helping me you may also be many others as well. If I switch to xfinity I will get internet and xfinity
Instant TV.
"Xfinity Instant TV is a cable TV streaming service that lets you watch live TV from broadcast and popular cable networks on your computer, tablet, smartphone or Roku Streaming Player. ... Stream TV Go content on any wireless or WiFi network anywhere in the U.S."

At first I thought InstantTV is an internet service like youtube but now I see it's a cable service. Am I correct?

Right now I'm paying CL $86 used to be $43 for up to 50 MB speed and another $35 to direct tv for stations. It looks like if I switch to Xfinity I'll have all that and more for around $40/month. I don't trust any of them so I'm sharing here to try and see what tricks they might pull. I swear it's like playing hop-scotch on a minefield.
thank-you Fred


[the xfinity offer is as follows:
Xfinity Instant TV is a cable TV streaming service that lets you watch live TV from broadcast and popular cable networks on your computer, tablet, smartphone or Roku Streaming Player. ... Stream TV Go content on any wireless or WiFi network anywhere in the U.S

here is the promo they offered me:
Xfinity Instant TV and Performance Starter Internet
34.99 dollars per month
$
34
99/mo
for 12 months
with 1-Year Agreement.
$29.99/mo. for 12 mos. with 1 year agreement and autopay and ecobill enrollment.
Check Availability
Pricing & Other Info
Base Package
Internet
TV
Other Info
Base Package
INTERNET
Up to 25 Mbps Download Speeds

TV
10+ Channels

[TOMMY D]

Went through the same thing with them increasing my bill $100. Said the welcome discounts had ended. Went with Spectrum for TV,PHONE AND COMPUTER for $135

[ffresh]

At first I thought InstantTV is an internet service like youtube but now I see it's a cable service. Am I correct?

YES it's a cable service offered by Xfinity/Comcast if you subscribe to their TV service. If you are a fan of watching TV and don't mind watching on "small devices", e.g. laptop, smartphone, etc. then it is an added value; for me … I don't watch much TV on my 55", so, no thank you YMMV :laugh:

Right now I'm paying CL $86 used to be $43 for up to 50 MB speed and another $35 to direct tv for stations. It looks like if I switch to Xfinity I'll have all that and more for around $40/month.

Don't forget the additional fees and taxes on top of the regular charges - they mount up quickly, are not quoted initially and must be paid every month as well. For example, taxes, broadcast fee, a charge associated with receiving local network affiliates, regional sports fee (which pays for regional sports networks) STB (set top box) and Digital Adaptors (other TVs) rentals, and on and on. That's another reason I opt for internet only and stream my own media - what little I desire. In PIT I have an attic antenna and HD Homerun to provide HD broadcast TV to other TVs



HDHomeRun - Watch TV anywhere in your home (https://www.silicondust.com/)

Beating Comcast and Cable Fees with the HD HomeRun Prime - Windows Media Center, and Xbox 360 - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VN1Z0oKwELk)


FredF

[Ladygolfer93]

Sure wish I knew what an "incognito window" is, $35 a month for TV AND Internet ? I have Comcast, TV and internet, I have two TV's so pay quite a lot extra for the DVD and the "special" box it requires (?) for the 2nd TV. Asked if this was necessary (attempting to lower the $140 a month price), they said I could go back to basic TV and that would not include HD channels or DVD services, would be $96 a month and yet, total would still be $119 with the various "taxes" and also charges for "sports" (which I don't watch and can't figure out since I thought charges for sports is an individual choice/add-on. Someone mentioned they knew a person in the V's who has an old fashioned antenna like we all had as kids... is that an option ? Do you only get the 3 or 4 channels from Orlando with an antenna ? Sorry to say, but just hate all this constant changing of equipment, providers, etc. ! !barf

[justjim]

Unfortunately, all the Cable companies are alike and they play the same “games”. It’s frustrating and time consuming to deal with such “games”.

I’m not a fan of regulation but beginning to think, since these services have become a necessity to most people, and there is little or no real competition, perhaps they should be regulated like any other necessary utility.

[ffresh]

Sure wish I knew what an "incognito window" is,
9 Ways to Activate Incognito Mode - wikiHow (https://www.wikihow.com/Activate-Incognito-Mode)

Asked if this was necessary (attempting to lower the $140 a month price) ...
Consumer - Silicon Dust (https://www.silicondust.com/hdhomerun/)

old fashioned antenna like we all had as kids... is that an option ?
It is but most stations are east of MCO and an outside antenna is required

[tomwed]

Sure wish I knew what an "incognito window" is, $35 a month for TV AND Internet ? I have Comcast, TV and internet, I have two TV's so pay quite a lot extra for the DVD and the "special" box it requires (?) for the 2nd TV. Asked if this was necessary (attempting to lower the $140 a month price), they said I could go back to basic TV and that would not include HD channels or DVD services, would be $96 a month and yet, total would still be $119 with the various "taxes" and also charges for "sports" (which I don't watch and can't figure out since I thought charges for sports is an individual choice/add-on. Someone mentioned they knew a person in the V's who has an old fashioned antenna like we all had as kids... is that an option ? Do you only get the 3 or 4 channels from Orlando with an antenna ? Sorry to say, but just hate all this constant changing of equipment, providers, etc. ! !barf
The Incognito window is important to understand and use. That's what it is called using the Chrome browser. It hides who you are and your computer from a vendor if I understand it correctly. Some companies like airlines and comcast offer you a special deal. They remember the deal [cookies] and if you did not search in the Incognito window the next time you look the deal is gone or the price is higher. Look up incognito window or search. With chrome you right click on the chrome icon and select incognito mode.

[ffresh]

Unfortunately, all the Cable companies are alike and they play the same “games”. It’s frustrating and time consuming to deal with such “games”.

I’m not a fan of regulation but beginning to think, since these services have become a necessity to most people, and there is little or no real competition, perhaps they should be regulated like any other necessary utility.

I feel your frustration BUT all cable providers that I'm aware of have/had VERY cozy relationships with local government and what has that wraught for the consumer but exactly what we all complain about. I don't feel they (cable companies) are a necessity but I suppose one could argue that they have become a public utility. It's just that IMHO government regulation would not help in the way of pricing for myriad reasons! But I suppose that's a whole other topic barf

FredF

[tomwed]

I have been watching this guys videos for a while and I think he is pretty smart and has the best interest of his patrons.

Somebody suggested we organize to get a better price. I would be willing but I think it's just pie in the sky. I think we can organize right here by sharing what we know and showing what might work for us and hoping our fellow gurus fill in the techy blanks. [did i say thanks fred?]

Watch this and tell us what you think.
https://v=NY-i7D3i_Dk&feature=push-u-sub&attr_tag=tFSnr7vgAkVaF2V2-6

[BarbStout]

Century Link/Direct TV is a horrible company. Their bills make no sense, they have awful customer service and they actually lie. We sucked up the penalty for leaving them early, but it was definitely worth going with Comcast, we will make up the money in about a year, but that's okay!!

[ffresh]

link doesn't work for me

FredF

[biker1]

There is actually plenty of competition here. Depending on where you live, you have up to 3 choices for Internet access and up to 5 choices for TV. In addition, you can put up an antenna and have free local affiliates out of Orlando. There are also numerous internet streaming sources, who are all in competition with each other, such as HuluTV and YouTube TV, just to name a couple.

I have had broadband internet access for 20 years. During that time, the price has always been between $35 and $40 per month. We currently pay $35 per month to CenturyLink. So, effectively the cost for internet access has dropped when considering the increases in the cost of living. The performance has also increased by two orders of magnitude. I fail to see what all the complaining is about.



Unfortunately, all the Cable companies are alike and they play the same “games”. It’s frustrating and time consuming to deal with such “games”.

I’m not a fan of regulation but beginning to think, since these services have become a necessity to most people, and there is little or no real competition, perhaps they should be regulated like any other necessary utility.

[Harry Gilbert]

The Incognito window is important to understand and use. That's what it is called using the Chrome browser. It hides who you are and your computer from a vendor if I understand it correctly. Some companies like airlines and comcast offer you a special deal. They remember the deal [cookies] and if you did not search in the Incognito window the next time you look the deal is gone or the price is higher. Look up incognito window or search. With chrome you right click on the chrome icon and select incognito mode.

Warning: Incognito mode does not stop other sites or your ISP from seeing your IP address or your web activity. It only keeps your browsing history from being saved. It will not hide you from anyone except those in your household.

When you go into incognito mode read the explanation on the screen.

If you want to hide from the world you can use a VPN ( virtual private network) with that you can change your IP address to almost anywhere in the world and your provider does not see your activity, As you have effectively changed your identity.

[ffresh]

VPN (Virtual Private Network) "A virtual private network (VPN) enables users to send and receive data while remaining anonymous and secure online."

MUCH safer for sure:

The Best VPN services for 2018 - CNET (https://www.cnet.com/best-vpn-services-directory/)

I use NordVPN (always highly rated)

FredF

[dwinmac]

Consider yourself lucky. I had CenturyLink with Internet/TV/Phone. It went from $145 to $175 to $246. I received ad in mail from COMCAST- $25 for Internet and $25 for TV, WOW only $50 per month!!! I switched to COMCAST for internet and TV, no phone. Sure, $25 for internet and $25 for TV but then $10 for modem, $10 for TV Box , $10 for wireless TV box for second TV, fees, taxes, etc., and bare minimum ABC, CBS, NBC and PBS plus a free STARZ(which I didn't particularly want). I did want CSPAN to watch Washington Journal and he said I could have CSPAN. After several calls to XFINITY for reboots and two visits from XFINITY people it turns out they stopped providing CSPAN for the cheap plan but hadn't told the sales persons. I'm paying $100 per month. IT IS ALL GETTING TO BE A BIG HUGE SCAM. THEY ARE ROBBING US BLIND.

[dwinmac]

Our experience has been that we have DirectTV, AT&T Cell phones and an AT&T box ($20 per month) that uses the internet for our home phone. We then have Comcast for our internet with a router that we own. Last month they (Comcast) sent me for a bill of $79 and I called them. In net it has been reduced to $44 per month as long as I allow a non paper billing.. I also get 100MB on the Internet.
I would suggest that the resident that had received a double billing to go to the nearest Seniors vs Crime office and fill out a complaint against Century Link. You have nothing to lose and may wake them up. Your complaint allegedly will be sent directly to the Florida Attorney General's office and I believe they will send it to Century Link for resolution.:ho:

Can you log on to C-SPAN2 without logging into XFINITY?

[Tinkerbelle]

No rewards or Loyalty discounts given by CL any more my bill went up $32.00 and when my other reward dates are up it will go up again.

[Chatbrat]

So-are you going to stay with CL--Xfinity is a no starter for us , because they are really Comcast

[Nucky]

C/L turned off our existing service yesterday at 9AM in preparation for our Friday upgrade. After giving them a chance to straighten it out we went back to Xfinity at 5 PM last night and took the internet service. I feel badly about leaving C/L the service was fine till yesterday.

I almost went for the Comcast TV deal but once you get all the way down to the bottom line and add in HD, Dvr, boxes, taxes, and things I didn’t think of the price was to much.

[Biker Dog]

Does anyone in the Villages use HULU TV without a cable tv subscription? I know you still need the high speed internet. Also are there any restrictions from the cable companies as to the amount of internet service usage per month?

[ffresh]

Does anyone in the Villages use HULU TV without a cable tv subscription? I know you still need the high speed internet. Also are there any restrictions from the cable companies as to the amount of internet service usage per month?

Not really sure what/why you're asking about Hulu w/o cable but as far as the second Q, most do have a data cap per month. Do a google/bing search on your provider's data cap (or call them to inquire). For example, a search of "xfinity data cap" yields the following:

1 - How does the XFINITY Terabyte Internet Data Usage Plan work?
The Terabyte Internet Data Usage Plan is a new data usage plan for XFINITY Internet service that provides you with a terabyte (1 TB or 1024 GB) of Internet data usage each month as part of your monthly service. If you choose to use more than 1 TB in a month, we will automatically add blocks of 50 GB to your account for an additional fee of $10 each.


XFINITY Data Usage Center — FAQ (https://dataplan.xfinity.com/faq/)

FredF

[Biker Dog]

Not really sure what/why you're asking about Hulu w/o cable but as far as the second Q, most do have a data cap per month. Do a google/bing search on your provider's data cap (or call them to inquire). For example, a search of "xfinity data cap" yields the following:

1 - How does the XFINITY Terabyte Internet Data Usage Plan work?
The Terabyte Internet Data Usage Plan is a new data usage plan for XFINITY Internet service that provides you with a terabyte (1 TB or 1024 GB) of Internet data usage each month as part of your monthly service. If you choose to use more than 1 TB in a month, we will automatically add blocks of 50 GB to your account for an additional fee of $10 each.


XFINITY Data Usage Center — FAQ (https://dataplan.xfinity.com/faq/)

FredF
I ask without "Cable TV", meaning just cable internet service. We are thinking of getting rid of cable tv and using hulu tv. But we are not sure which service to use (CL or Comcast), which will depend on allowable monthly usage.

[biker1]

Hulu TV is a cord-cutting, streaming service, similar to YoutubeTV and several other services.

I am not sure what you are referring to when you say "most" but CenturyLink doesn't have data caps here.

Not really sure what/why you're asking about Hulu w/o cable but as far as the second Q, most do have a data cap per month. Do a google/bing search on your provider's data cap (or call them to inquire). For example, a search of "xfinity data cap" yields the following:

1 - How does the XFINITY Terabyte Internet Data Usage Plan work?
The Terabyte Internet Data Usage Plan is a new data usage plan for XFINITY Internet service that provides you with a terabyte (1 TB or 1024 GB) of Internet data usage each month as part of your monthly service. If you choose to use more than 1 TB in a month, we will automatically add blocks of 50 GB to your account for an additional fee of $10 each.


XFINITY Data Usage Center — FAQ (https://dataplan.xfinity.com/faq/)

FredF

[ffresh]

Hulu TV is a cord-cutting, streaming service, similar to YoutubeTV and several other services.

I am not sure what you are referring to when you say "most" but CenturyLink doesn't have data caps here.

I am referring to the following and according to this well-known site, CL has a data cap (but probably one you've never bumped up against in your monthly viewing):

Internet Providers With Data Caps (https://broadbandnow.com/internet-providers-with-data-caps)

"Every Internet Provider We've Found Offering Plans With Data Caps
This table includes every broadband Internet provider currently using "data caps" to limit Internet usage. As of Jun 06, 2018, we have 215 providers with data caps in our database..."

and CL is one of them listed


FredF

[Biker Dog]

I am referring to the following and according to this well-known site, CL has a data cap (but probably one you've never bumped up against in your monthly viewing):

Internet Providers With Data Caps (https://broadbandnow.com/internet-providers-with-data-caps)

"Every Internet Provider We've Found Offering Plans With Data Caps
This table includes every broadband Internet provider currently using "data caps" to limit Internet usage. As of Jun 06, 2018, we have 215 providers with data caps in our database..."

and CL is one of them listed


FredF


Thanks, that is what I wanted to know. Has anyone used HULU TV and are you happy with the service?

[biker1]

According to CenturyLink, they don't enforce any data caps on fiber to the house connections here (the majority of the connections here). They do apparently send out warning notices for DSL customers.

I am referring to the following and according to this well-known site, CL has a data cap (but probably one you've never bumped up against in your monthly viewing):

Internet Providers With Data Caps (https://broadbandnow.com/internet-providers-with-data-caps)

"Every Internet Provider We've Found Offering Plans With Data Caps
This table includes every broadband Internet provider currently using "data caps" to limit Internet usage. As of Jun 06, 2018, we have 215 providers with data caps in our database..."

and CL is one of them listed


FredF

[ffresh]

According to CenturyLink, they don't enforce any data caps on fiber to the house connections here (the majority of the connections here). They do apparently send out warning notices for DSL customers.

Probably not enforced IF you're lucky enough to have fiber available. Netflix CEO, Hastings, said, "It turns out that all Netflix streaming peak on Saturday night can fit inside a single fiber optic, which is the size of one human hair". So I guess there is no need, however, if you have coax, probably another story - data cap


FredF

[biker1]

Most of the homes in The Villages have fiber to the house available via CenturyLink. The other providers, Comcast and Spectrum, use coax to the house with fiber trunks. I have no idea what Comcast and Spectrum do regarding data caps as I use CenturyLink.

Probably not enforced IF you're lucky enough to have fiber available. Netflix CEO, Hastings, said, "It turns out that all Netflix streaming peak on Saturday night can fit inside a single fiber optic, which is the size of one human hair". So I guess there is no need, however, if you have coax, probably another story - data cap


FredF

[ffresh]

Most of the homes in The Villages have fiber to the house available via CenturyLink. The other providers, Comcast and Spectrum, use coax to the house with fiber trunks. I have no idea what Comcast and Spectrum do regarding data caps as I use CenturyLink.


I contracted for Xfinity "internet only" back in January in Tall Trees; CL did not serve this area with fiber and I don't believe they serve north of 466 with fiber either. But I have >100 mbps so, as Alfred E Newman used to say, "what me worry" :p The newer areas/homes, I believe, are wired with fiber.

FredF

[Biker Dog]

I contracted for Xfinity "internet only" back in January in Tall Trees; CL did not serve this area with fiber and I don't believe they serve north of 466 with fiber either. But I have >100 mbps so, as Alfred E Newman used to say, "what me worry" :p The newer areas/homes, I believe, are wired with fiber.

FredF

We are north of 466 and have had CL fiber for over 2 years.

[UpNorth]

Thanks, that is what I wanted to know. Has anyone used HULU TV and are you happy with the service?

All of these streaming services allow a 5 or 7 day free trial, so you should just try one or more of them out. You can turn them on or off at will - no contacts or penalties. No setup charges, box rentals or anything. All you need is a streaming device like a Roku or Fire TV, or a "smart TV". We have been using YouTube TV for several months now, and are looking at Playstation Vue on a free 5 day trial. YouTube TV is fine unless you want to fast-forward through commercials you have recorded on networks (mainly CBS, NBC and ABC recordings). It blocks your access to these recordings and forces you to watch the VOD (Video On Demand) versions, which do not allow fast-forwarding through commercials. The PlayStation Vue service does not have this limitation. If you are "hooked" on fast-forwarding through commercials on your DVR, YouTube TV is not for you.

[ffresh]

Interesting info:

"Residential fiber service is available to 43% of people living in The Villages."

Internet Providers in The Villages: Compare 15 Providers (https://broadbandnow.com/Florida/The-Villages)

FredF

[biker1]

I believe everyone south of 466 has fiber to the home (or perhaps it is everyone south of 466a). Any new homes built within the last 5 years, and probably built within the last 6 or 7 years, have fiber to the home. They have also retrofitted other areas. Some areas still are serviced by DSL over copper.

I contracted for Xfinity "internet only" back in January in Tall Trees; CL did not serve this area with fiber and I don't believe they serve north of 466 with fiber either. But I have >100 mbps so, as Alfred E Newman used to say, "what me worry" :p The newer areas/homes, I believe, are wired with fiber.

FredF

[ffresh]

Yes, I believe all the new homes south of 466a are fiber. I'm south of 466 (by a stone throw) and coax - no fiber. But, again, what's the penalty … I get >100 mbps at a reasonable price. Even if I could get 1Gbps, what would I do with it and, thus, why would I want to pay the additional cost? I'm a happy camper at my speed/cost

FredF

[perrjojo]

Interesting info:

"Residential fiber service is available to 43% of people living in The Villages."

Internet Providers in The Villages: Compare 15 Providers (https://broadbandnow.com/Florida/The-Villages)

FredF
It looks as though prices are comparable and the customer service ratings are ALL terrible.

[biker1]

With the "cable companies" such as Comcast and Spectrum, the trunks are fiber. The last 50 feet of coax to the house doesn't really matter that much. With CenturyLink, you are either fiber to the house or DSL over copper. That makes a big difference.


Yes, I believe all the new homes south of 466a are fiber. I'm south of 466 (by a stone throw) and coax - no fiber. But, again, what's the penalty … I get >100 mbps at a reasonable price. Even if I could get 1Gbps, what would I do with it and, thus, why would I want to pay the additional cost? I'm a happy camper at my speed/cost

FredF

[biker1]

I don't care about "ratings". I have had CenturyLink for 4+ years and they have been fine. I hardly ever interact with them because the service is reliable. I think the last time was when I was replacing their router with one I bought. They actually swung by my house to pick it up.

It looks as though prices are comparable and the customer service ratings are ALL terrible.

[MrsPhil]

Don't know if you got this resolved or not but here are a couple of thoughts: I found my CL bill was also doubled early in the year, but it's because the credit card I had autopay on had expired and they failed to notify me (they did take off the late charges when I complained of that). Also, when my introductory rate was ready to expire, they pleasantly moved me to the $45/mo plan and so far, so good.
As for going cable-free, we haven't had cable since moving to FL 4 years ago. Bought a nice antenna and put it up (shouldn't cost more than $100 for antenna, maybe same for install). Our smart TV automatically has Netflix, which we subscribe to for less than $9/mo. We also got Roku and Chromecast, so we have plenty of options. If TV is not your life, you can do it relatively inexpensively.

[lynne]

We purchased a Fire TV Stick at the Marion of Market that had a pre-loaded program on it for Movies, TV Shows (not live, by season/episode) and Sports (live). This was while we still had a Dish contract to fulfill.

It was around $100 and then no further charges for what I mentioned above. This way we didn't have to pay fees for Netflix or other streaming devices and we were able to watch the NFL games and Big Ten Network etc.

Next we paid the same person to use his Premium program on the stick. That was $12 for a one month trial. We liked it so much we went for the $100/yr. contract. We get ALL the national and local stations - news from our stations back home, golf, tennis, hbo, starz, diy, hgtv, food network - you name it. However, you can't record with this type of service. It is streaming from our CL router and our speed is at 25mbps (I think that's the abbreviation). The picture is HD. We have a TV fire stick on each of our 4 TV's but can only watch 2 tv's simultaneously with their premium package. Not sure if you could watch a movie on a 3rd TV if it was using the non-premium streaming feature.

Streaming does not come without faults - and there is a learning curve to using it. However, we're retired - we've got plenty of time.

If you want to check it out for yourself - go to the Market of Marion - Aisle A - I think between C and D - facing towards Ocala. The guys are great. There are other vendors at the MofM, but their boxes are a couple hundred dollars - per TV and a monthly fee several X's more than we are paying.

If recording is a "must" then there's a unit on the market but it has to be used with an antenna or a couple designated streaming sites that are fee-based. I think it's called HD Homerun DVR. Or, stay with your cable or dish company and get the minimum channels that suit your needs for recording and do what we are doing for the rest.

Good luck!!!

[UpNorth]

We purchased a Fire TV Stick at the Marion of Market that had a pre-loaded program on it for Movies, TV Shows (not live, by season/episode) and Sports (live). This was while we still had a Dish contract to fulfill.

It was around $100 and then no further charges for what I mentioned above. This way we didn't have to pay fees for Netflix or other streaming devices and we were able to watch the NFL games and Big Ten Network etc.

Next we paid the same person to use his Premium program on the stick. That was $12 for a one month trial. We liked it so much we went for the $100/yr. contract. We get ALL the national and local stations - news from our stations back home, golf, tennis, hbo, starz, diy, hgtv, food network - you name it. However, you can't record with this type of service. It is streaming from our CL router and our speed is at 25mbps (I think that's the abbreviation). The picture is HD. We have a TV fire stick on each of our 4 TV's but can only watch 2 tv's simultaneously with their premium package. Not sure if you could watch a movie on a 3rd TV if it was using the non-premium streaming feature.

Streaming does not come without faults - and there is a learning curve to using it. However, we're retired - we've got plenty of time.

If you want to check it out for yourself - go to the Market of Marion - Aisle A - I think between C and D - facing towards Ocala. The guys are great. There are other vendors at the MofM, but their boxes are a couple hundred dollars - per TV and a monthly fee several X's more than we are paying.

If recording is a "must" then there's a unit on the market but it has to be used with an antenna or a couple designated streaming sites that are fee-based. I think it's called HD Homerun DVR. Or, stay with your cable or dish company and get the minimum channels that suit your needs for recording and do what we are doing for the rest.

Good luck!!!

Don't be surprised to see all this "free stuff" go away soon. The networks and industry are beginning to crack down on these services, which are mostly KODI boxes with illegal 3rd party add-ons. Your "jailbroken" Fire Stick may become an ordinary Fire Stick before too long.

[sparky4840]

I had the same thing happen. I called and got it back to the original price. They are willing to work with you.

[EdFNJ]

We purchased a Fire TV Stick at the Marion of Market that had a pre-loaded program on it for Movies, TV Shows (not live, by season/episode) and Sports (live). This was while we still had a Dish contract to fulfill.

It was around $100 and then no further charges for what I mentioned above. This way we didn't have to pay fees for Netflix or other streaming devices and we were able to watch the NFL games and Big Ten Network etc.

Next we paid the same person to use his Premium program on the stick. That was $12 for a one month trial. We liked it so much we went for the $100/yr. contract. We get ALL the national and local stations - news from our stations back home, golf, tennis, hbo, starz, diy, hgtv, food network - you name it. However, you can't record with this type of service. It is streaming from our CL router and our speed is at 25mbps (I think that's the abbreviation). The picture is HD. We have a TV fire stick on each of our 4 TV's but can only watch 2 tv's simultaneously with their premium package. Not sure if you could watch a movie on a 3rd TV if it was using the non-premium streaming feature.

Streaming does not come without faults - and there is a learning curve to using it. However, we're retired - we've got plenty of time.

If you want to check it out for yourself - go to the Market of Marion - Aisle A - I think between C and D - facing towards Ocala. The guys are great. There are other vendors at the MofM, but their boxes are a couple hundred dollars - per TV and a monthly fee several X's more than we are paying.

If recording is a "must" then there's a unit on the market but it has to be used with an antenna or a couple designated streaming sites that are fee-based. I think it's called HD Homerun DVR. Or, stay with your cable or dish company and get the minimum channels that suit your needs for recording and do what we are doing for the rest.

Good luck!!!

As long as you are aware 75% of what you are doing/watching is illegally obtained and streamed it's a good deal ;) despite the fact with a $25 FireTV (or other brand) "stick" and an hour or 2 on YouTube reading instructions you can get it all for free if you are a geeky type. The $100/yr really isn't a bad deal since it's all "pre-stolen" for you and you don't have to deal with it. I am sure the seller told you this up front :D

I had a "box" version of a "stick" but found it too annoying to deal with and stuck with commercial services and I AM the "geeky type."

[ldj1938]

I used to have Prisim and internet with century link. When I complained about price increases they would give me a discount and then add a year to my contract without telling me. I changed to Dish and comcast internet. Never have problems with Dish, but Prisim was a nightmare. Can't fix it until next Wednesday...
Comcast internet is much faster and I've had no problems. Just my experience.