Ask HN: How do I cut the other cord?

#1

Post by E_Carefree » Tue, May 21, 2013, 1:16 AM UTC

Help, I just moved into my new place and found out that Comcast has a monopoly over the building.

Are there any other options out there for me? I know Verizon offers 4G cards, etc. Are those comparable in terms of speed/price/reliance? Or am I doomed to use Comcast?

Re: Ask HN: How do I cut the other cord?

#2

Post by tptacek » Tue, May 21, 2013, 2:20 AM UTC

No, you're not going to be happy with a Verizon 4G card compared to Comcast. They're comparable to early-2000s DSL, but with higher latency. Completely usable for day-to-day work, but not so fast that you can stream Netflix just as easily as changing the channel on your TV.

I wouldn't be happy either if my only choice was Comcast, but then I'd get over it and sign up.

Do they have a monopoly over all Internet service at your building, or just cable? AT&T can't deliver DSL to you over their copper?

Re: Ask HN: How do I cut the other cord?

#3

Post by E_Carefree » Tue, May 21, 2013, 10:49 PM UTC

tptacek wrote: post #2

No, you're not going to be happy with a Verizon 4G card compared to Comcast. They're comparable to early-2000s DSL, but with higher latency. Completely usable for day-to-day work, but not so fast that you can stream Netflix just as easily as changing the channel on your TV. I wouldn't be happy either if my only choice was Comcast, but then I'd get over it and sign up. Do they have a monopoly over all Internet service…

Yea, after doing the research it seems like the only choice is to suck it up.

Thanks for the reply.