How Much Does It Cost to Install WiFi at Home?
Don’t you have Wi-Fi installed at home yet? Is it because you don’t know how much does it cost to install Wifi at home? Don’t worry about the cost. Installation of an average-range Wi-Fi connection will cost you between $300 and $700.
In fact, it is hard to tell the exact figure. The cost depends on the following things;
- Number of network connections you need
- Type of devices you connecting
- Type of equipment you choose
- Monthly subscription
- Labor cost
Many other cost variables are also involved in this process. Of course, it’s not your job; hence, you better leave it to the specialists. Hire a computer networking professional and an electrician for the wireless cable setup at your home.
Many internet service providers do the job for you at a fee of cost. So, it is good to clearly understand all the costs related to the installation of Wi-Fi. That’s where we can help.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Wifi at Home?
In this internet era, your home does not have an Internet connection yet. Sadly, you are one of the few unfortunate people left on earth without Wi-Fi. Internet connection like electricity, gas, etc. has also become utmost necessary these days.
A large number of people work from home these days, especially after the pandemic. Many, like you, have felt the need for a strong wireless connection but were put off by the cost.
Even many people use the internet without even knowing how much it costs to install Wifi at home. Actually, a Wi-Fi connection is more affordable than the wired one. It provides more flexibility and usability than the wired network.
Most people pay around $300-$700 for an average-range wireless network installation. At the same time, a low-end wireless network installation costs $100, and a high-end network installation costs around $1000.
Factors that Determine the Cost of Wi-Fi Installation
The cost of a Wi-Fi connection is not fixed. It varies depending on individual needs. However, some factors need to consider while installing a Wi-Fi connection. The following factors have a significant impact on Wi-Fi installation.
1. Type of Equipment
Wi-Fi connection deals with several cables and computer networking systems. More than that, a Wi-Fi router is the first thing you need for a Wi-Fi connection. A Wi-Fi router costs you between $75 and $250, based on the brand.
Then, you may need a modem which will cost you around $50 to $100. Internet Service Providers often provide these two pieces of equipment. They will charge you $10 to $15 per month for a router and modem.
However, you can also purchase a router and modem. A router will cost you $100 to $200, while a modem will cost you $150 to $250. Apart from a router and a modem, you may need additional equipment in a complex setup.
You may need additional wireless access points and indoor and outdoor aerials. Sometimes, you may also need a Wi-Fi extender to enhance the signal. For commercial setup, you will need added security than residential environments.
So, you may need to invest in a hardware firewall. The cost may increase if the Wi-Fi connection is brought from an extended cabled LAN. Simply put, the more equipment is added, the more cost will increase.
2. Type of Device You Are Connecting
The cost of Wi-Fi installation will increase depending on the type of device you are connecting. The cost will increase if you include devices like monitors, computers, printers, etc.
That is because you need more connections to cover all the devices. Extra connection ports or network adapters are essential if you need access to more devices, which incur added costs.
3. Labor Costs
The labor cost will vary based on where you install WI-Fi and the range of Wi-Fi connections. The cost for smaller networks is definitely less than the large enterprise-level networks.
If there are challenges on the way, the cost will increase. You may need a few hundred dollars to set up a small wireless network. On the other hand, large networks will cost you over a thousand dollars.
4. Electricity Costs
The cost of electricity is often ignored while installing a Wi-Fi connection. In real, electricity is needed to keep the Wi-Fi router switched on throughout the day. The wireless connection contributes 1% to 5% to your electricity bill.
Therefore, it is essential to consider the cost of electricity. The router usually consumes 15 Watts to 100 Watts of electricity. A standard Wi-Fi router will cost you a few cents per day.
Larger connections will likely have many access points and extenders. In that case, it will cost more electricity than the standard networks. And this cost of electricity should be included in the Wi-Fi installation cost.
5. Monthly Subscription Fee
Most internet service providers charge a monthly subscription fee for the wireless connection. They ask to sign a fixed-term contract of between 12 months and 24 months. If you are taking a 25 Mbps fiber broadband connection, it’ll charge you $60 per month.
In the case of a monthly subscription, the longer the contract, the lower monthly bill. It is wise to tie it into a long-term contract. However, the monthly subscription fee depends on the following:
- The connection type (for example; cable, fiber, DSL, and satellite)
- Download speeds
- Your location
- And data caps
In the beginning, it is better to start slower. For a slower connection, DSL or cable is always cheaper than fiber. Then, gradually increase the speed. There is a chance to upgrade the connection for faster service.
Below are the top five Internet Service Providers with their monthly subscription fees.
| Internet Service Provider | Connection type | Download speeds | Upload speeds | Monthly subscription fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 75-100 Mbps | 8-100 Mbps | $55 and Up |
| Xfinity Internet | Fiber, Cable | 50–1200 Mbps | 5–35 Mbps | $24.99–$80 |
| Verizon Internet | Fiber | 300–2048 Mbps | 300–2048 Mbps | $39.99 and Up |
| Spectrum Internet | Hybrid-Fiber Coax | 300–1000 Mbps | 10–35 Mbps | $49.99 and Up |
| Viasat | Satellite | 12–100 Mbps | 3 Mbps | $64.99 and Up |
6. Upgrade Costs
After the wireless connection installation, you may need to upgrade the Wi-Fi signal. Sometimes, you need to expand the business and upgrade the connection.
There may be additional costs further. Apart from the signal, you may need to upgrade the router and modem. So, the replacement cost also needs to consider.
7. Maintenance Costs
Some internet service providers require to enter a maintenance agreement. They will charge monthly as per the agreement. In return, they will perform regular software and equipment maintenance to keep the Wi-Fi connection working.
How to Get a Cost-Effective Wireless Connection?
If you currently have a wired LAN connection, you can reasonably convert it into a wireless one. All you need is a Wi-Fi router and some basic technical knowledge. Connect the Wi-Fi router with your existing wired LAN network.
Here you don’t need all other equipment for setup. It is simple and cost-effective. You can get a Wi-Fi router in the nearest stores. You can also minimize the cost by getting an internet connection from ISPs that offer affordable service.
The other way to minimize your internet cost is to negotiate with the internet service providers. Negotiate with an ISP agent to get a better rate. Moreover, you can purchase your equipment to lower the cost.
The monthly rental fee for equipment can increase your monthly internet bill. So, it is better to get a connection with your equipment. Lastly, start with a lower-speed connection. It will surely save you a great amount of money.
How to Choose the Best Internet Service Provider at Cheapest Price?
Well, it can be frustrating to sift through the best deals from around you to choose the perfect ISP. Don’t worry. We will help you with a step-by-step guide to choose the best ISP for you.
1. Purpose of Installing Internet
Before choosing an ISP, you have to be specific in some respects, such as:
- What are you planning to use the internet for?
- How many devices are you planning to connect at a time?
- How many people can use your network regularly?
After you are sorted about these, consider what you would use the devices for. Find out how much internet speed you need to meet your goals.
2. Look for Available Deals and Promotions Locally
Internet services vary with location. Each ISP comes with attractive offers on speeds. You can look for the speed you need for your home network. Also, consider the availability of ISPs.
Depending on location, the price can also vary. Compare the price, speed, data caps, fees, deals, contracts, discounts, etc., offered in your local. You need to compare all these to find out which ISP provides the best service at the lowest price.
3. Decide Which One to Choose
Once you compare all the data, now is the time to decide. By now, you should choose an ISP that surpasses the rest. It’s time to contact the provider and discuss your Wi-Fi connection.
Final Words
Wireless connection at home can change the way you live. Not only it makes your life easier, but also it is cheaper to install than the traditional wired connection. Even you know now how much does it cost to install wifi at home. So, consider installing a wireless connection at home NOW!
Read Also: How Much Does It Cost To Install WiFi in A Business?
