**Please review the disclaimer at the end of this document before reading or using this guide.

Fiber-optic internet provides the fastest and most reliable internet connection available, making it a great choice for new immigrants in Canada who need high-speed internet for work, study, and staying connected with family. This guide provides information on how new immigrants can get a fiber-optic internet connection for their home or apartment in Canada.

Step 1: Understand Fiber-Optic Internet

Fiber-optic internet uses thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as light signals, offering significantly higher speeds and greater reliability compared to DSL or cable internet. It’s ideal for streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and connecting multiple devices simultaneously.

Step 2: Research Fiber-Optic Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

Several ISPs offer fiber-optic internet in Canada, though availability may vary by location. Some of the major providers include:

• Rogers together with Shaw (Ignite)
• Bell Canada (Fibe)
• Telus (PureFibre)
• SaskTel (in Saskatchewan)
• Videotron (in Quebec)

Step 3: Check Availability

1. Online Availability Check:
   • Visit the ISPs’ websites and use their availability tools by entering your postal code or address to see if fiber-optic service is available at your location.
2. Contact ISPs:
   • If online tools are inconclusive, call customer service representatives to confirm availability and get more detailed information about the plans offered.

Step 4: Determine Your Needs

1. Speed Requirements:
   • Basic Use: For browsing, email, and social media, 50-100 Mbps should be sufficient.
   • Heavy Use: For streaming 4K videos, online gaming, and remote work, consider 300-1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps) or higher.
2. Data Usage:
   • Opt for unlimited data plans to avoid additional charges if you have high data usage.
3. Contract Length:
   • ISPs may offer monthly, 1-year, or 2-year contracts. Choose based on your length of stay and flexibility needs.

Step 5: Compare Plans

Use comparison tools and websites to compare different plans and providers:

• WhistleOut: Provides comparisons of internet plans based on your needs.
• PlanHub: Offers detailed comparisons and user reviews of various plans and providers.

Step 6: Choose a Router Option

Option 1: ISP-Provided Router

1. Benefits:
   • Simplifies setup with pre-configured settings.
   • Support and troubleshooting are easier through your ISP.
2. Steps:
   • Confirm with ISP: When signing up, confirm that you want to use the ISP-provided router.
   • Installation: The ISP technician will set up the router during installation.

Option 2: Bringing Your Own Router (BYOR)

1. Benefits:
   • Greater control over network settings and performance.
   • Occasionally (but not very often) better performance and features than ISP-provided routers. This is not always true though. Having you own router requires to have knowledge on how to set-up and operate the router.
2. Steps:
   • Compatibility: Ensure your router is compatible with fiber-optic internet. Look for routers with gigabit Ethernet ports and dual-band Wi-Fi capabilities.
   • Setup: During installation, inform the technician that you will use your own router. They will connect the fiber modem to your router and help with basic setup if needed.

Step 7: Sign Up for a Plan

1. Online:
   • Visit the ISP’s website, select your plan, and complete the purchase online.
2. In-Store:
   • Visit a retail location of your chosen ISP. Bring the required documents and choose your plan with the help of a sales representative.
3. Over the Phone:
   • Call the ISP’s customer service number to sign up for a plan. Provide the necessary information and choose your router option.

Step 8: Schedule Installation

1. Professional Installation:
   • Schedule an appointment for an ISP technician to install the fiber-optic service in your home. The technician will install the fiber modem and set up the internet connection.
   • If using an ISP-provided router, the technician will also set it up. If using your own router, they will connect it to the modem and assist with basic configuration.

Step 9: Set Up Your Home Network

1. Router Setup:
   • If using your own router, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to complete the setup.
   • Connect your router to the fiber modem using an Ethernet cable and configure the network settings (SSID, password).
2. Wi-Fi Configuration:
   • Set up your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password.
   • Ensure you choose a strong password to secure your network.
3. Connect Devices:
   • Connect your devices (computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs) to your new Wi-Fi network.

Step 10: Test Your Connection

1. Speed Test:
   • Use online tools like Speedtest.net to check your internet speed and ensure it matches the plan you purchased.
2. Troubleshooting:
   • If you encounter issues, contact your ISP’s customer support for assistance.

Additional Tips

1. Promotions and Discounts:
   • Look out for special promotions, discounts for new customers, or bundle deals that include TV and phone services.
2. Read the Fine Print:
   • Carefully read the terms and conditions of your contract, including any early termination fees.
3. Monitor Usage:
   • If your plan has a data cap, monitor your usage to avoid extra charges.

Getting a fiber-optic internet connection for your home or apartment in Canada involves understanding your needs, researching ISPs, and following the necessary steps to sign up and install your service. Whether you choose to use the ISP-provided router or bring your own, you can enjoy the benefits of high-speed internet by following this guide. Welcome to Canada, and enjoy your new internet service!

**DISCLAIMER: This document was prepared based on information gathered from various online sources. While our aim is to provide accurate and helpful information to newcomers in Canada, Active Action cannot be held responsible for any actions, outcomes, or situations that may arise from the use of this document. We strongly recommend that you verify any details with official sources or relevant authorities if you have any doubts or uncertainties about any information provided in this document. If you have any specific questions about the information in this document, or if you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please inform us immediately through the contact form. We will respond to you as soon as possible and/or update the information as necessary.