Updated: March 25, 2024
What is Cord Cutting
When someone “cuts the cord,” in terms of telecommunications, it means they’re canceling a satellite or cable TV subscription and switching primarily to online alternatives for content delivery. Those alternatives include internet-based streaming platforms that deliver a tremendous number of movies and TV shows over an internet connection.
Should I Cut The Cord?
There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to cord-cutting, but the cost is probably the biggest consideration. Few cable/satellite subscribers pay less than $50 monthly. Most subscribers pay more, with many paying well over $100 a month. And costs continue rising every year.
Most cord cutters can potentially subscribe to between 2-5 streaming services for less than $50 monthly.
Not to mention, fiber streamed content is not typically interrupted by storms or other inclement weather as cable and satellite service can be.
What Equipment Do I Need?
Many cable/satellite TV subscribers may think cutting the cord will require expensive upgrades and monthly equipment rental. This isn’t the case. The only monthly fees involved with cord-cutting are those related to internet service/equipment and to the streaming channels of choice.
The only requirement for streaming video content is a reliable high-speed connection to the TV you want to watch. Smart TVs have built-in internet connectivity. Depending on the streaming service you subscribe to, if you own a smart TV, you may not need any additional equipment. If you would like your TV or devices to connect to your internet wirelessly, a WiFi router will be needed as well.
Even without an internet-connected TV, though, there are a number of available devices that plug into your TV and connect it to the internet, making it streaming capable.
The most popular of these devices, some of which can be purchased for less than $30, include:
- Roku Streaming Players
- Amazon Fire Stick
- Apple TV
- Google Chromecast
Each of the above can stream a complete range of online video channels, but they’re not the only option for connecting a TV to the internet. DVD players, streaming media players, and video game consoles are among the other options that will allow you to stream online video. Additionally, any other internet-capable device can also stream online video, including desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones. These allow you to take streaming entertainment on the go.
What Streaming Options Do I Have?
The number of video streaming services has exploded recently, including those with local networks and typical “cable” channels. Netflix is the oldest and most well-known platform.
Other prominent streaming options include:
- Amazon Prime Video
- CBS All Access
- Disney+
- HBO Max
- Hulu
- Peacock
- Sling TV
- YouTube TV
The above premium options can be supplemented by the following free platforms, among others:
- Crackle
- IMDB TV
- Pluto TV
- Tubi
- VUDU
There are other, more specialized streaming channels, too, including ones that specialize in arthouse content, comic book movies and TV shows, horror movies and TV shows, and more. Try searching Google to find them.
How Can I Sign Up To Save With GVEC Internet Fiber?
With speeds up to 1 Gbps and the reliability of fiber-optics, GVEC Internet Fiber is the perfect way to help you cut the cord. GVEC Internet Fiber to the Home uses 100% fiber-optic cable to link every mile of connectivity along our network, including right up to your doorstep. This makes us unique. Other providers mix fiber-optics with older technologies in the final yards to the home, which can alter the end-user experience.
No other technology can provide a more stable, more seamless streaming experience. If you’re ready to cut the cord with Fiber, fill out GVEC Internet Internet’s Sign Up form or call us at 800-699-4832. If Fiber is available where you live, we’ll set you up on the best plan for your needs and install at your convenience.
