FIOS is a combined television, internet and phone service introduced by Verizon in 2005. It replaces traditional cables and outdated copper wiring with a network of fiber optics to provide faster and higher quality connection. During its initial release FIOS gained a reputation for having the highest connection speeds and most reliable services, all available at affordable prices. Since then the market has changed and competing companies have made significant improvements. Does the FIOS still stand up to its reputation? Lets take a look.
Pros:
- Offers combinations of services at a discounted price
- High quality high definition TV (from 190+ channels up to 435+)
- Reliable high speed internet (from 15mbps up to 500mbps at near 100% reliability)
- Unlimited calls to the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico
- No annual contracts required
- 100% Fiber optic network
- 24/7 live customer service
- 100% satisfaction or full refund guarantee
Cons:
Preferential treatment is given to new customers
Listed prices are before tax, equipment and additional fees
Prices and quality not necessarily leading when compared to competitors
Analysis
Verizon FIOS offers a variety of bundle packs, giving discount prices to customers that purchase two or more of its services. FIOS Double Play includes FIOS's standard Select TV and Internet service(15mbps) at $69.99. FIOS Triple Play provides Prime TV, faster internet(50mbps) as well as phone service for only twenty dollars more. While there aren't any special deals for someone looking to purchase only one of their services, Verizon does a good job of offering a broad spectrum of bundles to meet a variety of needs. Furthermore, none of FIOS's plans require an annual contract, so customers can try a bundle or service without being forced to commit to it.
FIOS uses a 100% fiber optic network allowing it to live up to its claim of having the best high speed internet. While it is typical for most ISPs to experience downtime, slowing internet connection (especially during peak hours) and other technical difficulties, with FIOS even critics admit that connection and reliability are not a problem. Verizon FIOS is one of the most reliable internet service providers and they maintain their systems on a daily routine.
With Verizon, customer service has always been somewhat inconsistent and it is no different with FIOS. Though it can be difficult to make an entirely accurate judgement when it comes to customer service, as there will always be someone who has a bad experience, there are a few facts. FIOS maintains a 24/7 live customer assistance line so you won't have to deal with any automated voice menus. Their staff is knowledgeable, professional and generally helpful.
Five years ago, FIOS Verizon was easily the best internet service provider available in America. Since then its competitors have made a comeback and warrant a second look. Although Verizon FIOS is still undoubtedly a reliable, high speed internet, television and phone service, it may now only be marginally better than the others. Its prices can be misleading because they do not include additional fees and equipment costs. Furthermore, many of its discount prices are only available to new customers, while returning and long-time customers are forced to pay slowly increasing prices.
If you're looking for a company to sign up with, FIOS is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to confirm final prices by phone to find out exactly what you'll be paying. It may also be worth cross checking other service providers to make sure you're really getting the best price for what you are buying.
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