This Article was fact checked and last updated for accuracy on November 12, 2024 by Mani Karthik
Hey folks! Mani here.
Remember my first week back in India?
Three video calls dropped, two Netflix buffering circles, and one very angry client laterโฆ
I learned that choosing the right internet plan is crucial!
Quick Takeaways โก
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Jio Fiber best for value
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Airtel for reliability
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Local ISPs for quick installation
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Check building/society restrictions first!
Current Plan Comparison (January 2024) ๐
Before we dive into the numbers, let me tell you something: internet plans in India are like mangoes – plenty of varieties, each claiming to be the sweetest!
After trying literally every major provider in Bangalore (my wallet still hasn’t forgiven me), here’s what you need to know:
Provider | Speed | Monthly Cost | Best For |
---|
Jio Fiber | 300 Mbps | โน1,499 | Overall Value |
Airtel | 200 Mbps | โน1,299 | Reliability |
ACT | 250 Mbps | โน1,399 | Urban Areas |
Quick Installation Options ๐ฅ
Getting internet installed in India can beโฆ interesting.
When I moved back in 2017, I had three different providers promise “same-day installation.”
Five days later, I was still hotspotting from my phone!
The good news?
Installation processes have improved dramatically since then. Here’s what you can expect in 2024:
Jio Fiber
My experience with Jio installation was surprisingly smooth.
Their app-based tracking actually works (unlike my food delivery apps!), and the technicians are well-trained. The whole process feels very Amazon-like.
- Installation Time: 24-48 hours
- Installation Cost: โน1,000 (refundable)
- Check Availability
Airtel Xstream
Airtel’s installation process is more traditional but reliable.
They send a local team who usually know your building already.
In my apartment complex, they had everything set up in 4 hours because they’d done multiple installations there before.
ACT Fibernet
ACT’s installation varies by city. In Bangalore, they’re super quick. In newer cities, expect some delays.
Pro tip: Their local franchise model means service quality can vary significantly between areas.
- Installation Time: 24 hours
- Installation Cost: โน500
- Service Areas
Pro Tips For Quick Setup ๐ก
Let me tell you about the time I waited a week for internet because I didn’t know my society needed to approve the installation first.
Save yourself from my mistakes!
Building Approval Process
Most residential complexes in India have specific rules about internet installations.
Here’s what you need to check first:
Society NOC
- Some buildings have exclusive tie-ups
- Get written approval
- Check installation timing restrictions
Installation Timing
- Morning slots (9-11 AM) work best
- Weekday installations are faster
- Keep alternate contact number ready
Payment & Documentation ๐
The first time I tried getting a connection, I wasn’t prepared for the documentation needed.
Here’s what actually happens:
What You’ll Need:
- ID Proof (Passport/Aadhaar)
- Address Proof
- Passport size photos (yes, really!)
- Security deposit (keep UPI ready)
My Current Setup
After trying everything from local cable broadband to premium fiber, here’s what I settled on:
Primary: Airtel 200 Mbps
- Why? Consistent speeds
- Great for video calls
- 24/7 support actually works
Backup: Jio 4G Hotspot
- For power cuts
- When primary fails
- Surprisingly reliable
Need Internet Today? ๐
Can’t wait for fiber installation? Here’s your quick-start guide:
Immediate Solutions:
- Jio/Airtel 4G hotspot
- Local cable operator (usually same-day)
- Mobile data with hotspot
While Waiting for Installation:
- Use co-working spaces
- Coffee shops with WiFi
- Network with neighbors
Questions? Drop them below!
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P.S. – Setting up home office? Check out my guide on the best WFH equipment in India!