Why This Guide Exists
The internet isn’t optional anymore. Whether it’s video-calling your grandkids, managing prescriptions online, booking medical appointments, accessing your bank, or just keeping in touch with family and friends — a reliable internet connection is as essential as a phone line used to be.
But most internet guides are written for people who already know what “Mbps” means and what a router does. This one isn’t. This guide is written in plain language for anyone who wants to get online comfortably, stay safe, and avoid paying for things they don’t need.
No jargon. No assumptions. Just clear answers.
Step 1: Understanding What You Actually Need
Before signing up for anything, it helps to know what you’ll mainly use the internet for. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| What You Want to Do | Speed You Need | Monthly Data |
|---|---|---|
| Email, news, light browsing | 10-25 Mbps | 100-200 GB |
| Video calls (Zoom, FaceTime) | 25-50 Mbps | 200-500 GB |
| Streaming TV (Netflix, CBC Gem, Crave) | 25-75 Mbps | 500 GB+ |
| Multiple people streaming + video calls | 75-150 Mbps | Unlimited |
The key number is “Mbps” — that stands for megabits per second. It measures how fast your internet connection can send and receive information. A higher number means faster speeds, but most seniors and single-person households don’t need the fastest plan available.
If you mainly use the internet for email, reading the news, and the occasional video call with family, a plan with 25-50 Mbps is usually more than enough. There’s no need to pay for a 500 Mbps plan if you’re not streaming 4K video on four TVs at once.
For a deeper look at choosing the right speed, check out our guide: How Much Internet Speed Do You Actually Need?
Step 2: Choosing the Right Type of Internet
Not all internet connections are the same. Here are the main types available in Western Canada:
Fibre Internet (Best Overall)
Fibre uses thin glass cables to transmit data using light. It’s the fastest and most reliable option, with speeds from 75 Mbps all the way to 1,000+ Mbps. Fibre is available in most major cities across Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan — including Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Saskatoon, and Victoria.
Best for: Reliable, fast connections with consistent speeds. Our recommendation for most homes. Learn more about fibre internet.
Cable Internet (Widely Available)
Cable internet runs through the same coaxial cables as cable TV. It offers solid speeds (typically 25-300 Mbps) and is available in most urban and suburban areas. It can slow down slightly during peak evening hours when many neighbours are online at the same time.
Best for: Areas where fibre isn’t available yet, or if you want a good balance of speed and cost. Learn more about cable internet.
DSL Internet
DSL runs through your phone line. It’s older technology and slower than fibre or cable (typically 5-50 Mbps), but it’s available in many areas, including some rural ones. It’s being phased out in many regions.
Best for: Areas with no fibre or cable access, basic browsing and email needs.
Satellite and Fixed Wireless
These are options for truly rural or remote areas where no wired infrastructure exists. Satellite internet (like Starlink) bounces signals off satellites in space. Fixed wireless uses radio towers. Both have improved significantly but may have higher latency (a slight delay) and can be affected by weather.
Best for: Farms, acreages, and remote communities. For more on rural options, see our guide: Best Internet Options for Rural Alberta, BC & Saskatchewan.
Step 3: Picking an Internet Plan (Without Overpaying)
Here are the things to look at when comparing internet plans:
Monthly Price
Internet plans in Western Canada typically range from $50 to $120/month. Be cautious of promotional rates that jump significantly after 6-12 months. Always ask: “What will this cost after the promotional period?”
Download Speed
This is the Mbps number. For a one- or two-person household doing email, video calls, and streaming, 25-75 Mbps is the sweet spot. You do not need a 500 Mbps plan.
Data Cap vs. Unlimited
Some plans limit how much data you can use per month. If you stream a lot of video, look for an unlimited plan. If you mostly browse and email, even 200-300 GB is plenty. Read our explainer on what unlimited internet actually means in Canada.
Contract Length
Some providers lock you into 1-2 year contracts with early cancellation fees. Others offer month-to-month plans. If you’re unsure, month-to-month gives you flexibility to switch if you’re not happy.
Equipment Fees
Most plans include a modem/router rental. Some charge $5-$15/month for the equipment. Ask what’s included before you sign up.
Need help comparing? See Get Wifi’s current internet plans and pricing — we keep things straightforward with no hidden fees.
Step 4: Setting Up Your Home Internet
Once you’ve chosen a plan, here’s what to expect:
- A technician visit (sometimes) — For fibre or cable, a technician usually comes to your home to install or activate the connection. This typically takes 1-2 hours.
- You’ll get a modem and/or router — The modem connects to the internet, and the router creates the WiFi network in your home. Many providers give you a single device that does both.
- You’ll set up a WiFi name and password — The technician or the device itself will walk you through creating a network name (the name you see when you search for WiFi on your phone or tablet) and a password to keep it secure.
Tip: Write down your WiFi name and password and keep it somewhere safe — on a card near your router, for example. You’ll need it anytime you connect a new device. For a full walkthrough, see our beginner’s guide to setting up home WiFi.
Where to Put Your Router
Router placement makes a big difference in how well your WiFi works:
- Central location — Place the router in the middle of your home if possible, not tucked in a basement corner.
- Elevated position — On a shelf or table, not on the floor. WiFi signals spread outward and downward from the router.
- Away from obstructions — Thick walls, microwaves, fish tanks, and metal objects can weaken WiFi signals.
- Open and ventilated — Don’t put the router inside a closed cabinet. It needs airflow to avoid overheating.
If your home is larger than about 1,500 sq ft, or if you have a multi-storey layout, the WiFi signal may not reach every room. A mesh WiFi system can help — read our guide to fixing WiFi dead zones if you’re having trouble with weak signal in certain areas.
Step 5: Staying Safe Online
Online safety is especially important if you’re newer to the internet. Here are the essentials:
Protect Your WiFi Network
- Use a strong password — At least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using your name, address, or “password123.”
- Don’t share your WiFi password broadly — It’s fine for family and close friends, but don’t post it or give it to strangers.
- Keep your router’s firmware updated — Most modern routers update automatically. If yours doesn’t, check the manufacturer’s website every few months.
For a complete security walkthrough, see: How to Secure Your Home WiFi Network.
Recognize Scams and Phishing
Scammers target internet users of all ages, but seniors are disproportionately targeted. Watch for:
- Emails claiming to be from your bank, CRA, or a delivery company — asking you to “click here” or “verify your account.” Your bank will never ask for your password via email.
- Pop-up warnings saying your computer is infected — These are almost always fake. Don’t call the phone number shown. Close the browser window instead.
- Phone calls claiming to be “tech support” — Microsoft, Apple, and Google will never call you out of the blue to fix your computer.
Golden rule: If something feels urgent and asks for personal information or money, stop and verify independently. Call the organization directly using the number on their official website — not the number in the email or pop-up.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Use a different password for each important account (email, banking, etc.). A password manager app can help you keep track without writing them all on sticky notes. Popular options include 1Password and Bitwarden — both are straightforward to set up.
Step 6: Making the Most of Your Connection
Once you’re online, here are some of the most useful things you can do:
Video Calling
Stay connected with family using free video calling apps:
- FaceTime — Built into iPhones and iPads. Simple and reliable.
- Zoom — Works on any device. Great for group calls with multiple family members.
- WhatsApp — Widely used for both messaging and video calls.
Streaming TV and Movies
Cut the cable bill and stream what you want to watch:
- Netflix — From $7.99/month. Huge library of shows and movies.
- CBC Gem — Free (with ads) for Canadian shows and news.
- Crave — HBO, Showtime, and Canadian content from $7.99/month.
- YouTube — Free. Endless how-to videos, news, documentaries, and more.
For help choosing the right speed for streaming, read: What Internet Speed Do You Need for Streaming?
Online Banking and Bill Payment
Most Canadian banks offer online and mobile banking. It’s secure when you use your bank’s official website or app, keep your password private, and avoid banking on public WiFi (like at coffee shops or libraries).
Telehealth and Online Prescriptions
Many Alberta, BC, and Saskatchewan health services now offer virtual appointments. Services like Maple, Telus Health, and provincial telehealth lines let you see a doctor from home — especially useful if you’re in a rural area like Prince George or Prince Albert where clinics may be farther away.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Internet problems happen. Here are the most common fixes:
“My internet isn’t working”
- Unplug your router from power, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in. This solves about 80% of issues.
- Check if other devices can connect. If your phone works but your computer doesn’t, the problem is with the computer — not the internet.
- Make sure cables are firmly connected to the router.
“My internet is slow”
- Move closer to the router to see if speed improves.
- Close browser tabs and apps you’re not using — they can consume bandwidth in the background.
- Check if someone else in the household is downloading a large file or streaming video.
- Restart the router (unplug, wait 30 seconds, plug back in).
For a complete troubleshooting walkthrough: Why Is My Internet So Slow? Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide.
“I forgot my WiFi password”
Look at the sticker on the bottom or back of your router — many routers print the default WiFi password there. If you changed it and can’t remember, you can reset the router by holding the small “Reset” button on the back for about 10 seconds. This will restore it to factory settings and you can set it up fresh.
Getting Help When You Need It
Don’t be shy about asking for help:
- Your internet provider’s support line — They can troubleshoot remotely and walk you through fixes over the phone.
- A tech-savvy family member — Many issues are quick fixes for someone familiar with technology.
- Local library programs — Many libraries in Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, and Kelowna offer free digital literacy classes for seniors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a computer to use the internet?
No. A tablet (like an iPad) or even a smartphone works perfectly for email, video calls, browsing, and streaming. Tablets are often easier than computers for people who are newer to technology — the touchscreen interface is more intuitive.
Is fibre internet better than cable for seniors?
Fibre is generally more reliable and consistent, but for basic use (email, video calls, streaming), both fibre and cable work well. Choose whichever is available in your area and fits your budget. Compare fibre vs cable internet here.
How much should I expect to pay for internet per month?
For a basic plan suitable for a one- or two-person household, expect to pay $50-$80/month in most parts of Alberta, BC, or Saskatchewan. Faster plans with unlimited data run $80-$120/month. Bundling with home phone service can sometimes save money — see our bundle options.
Can I use internet and my home phone at the same time?
Yes. Modern internet connections (fibre and cable) are completely separate from your phone line. You can browse the internet, make a phone call, and stream a show all at the same time without any interference.
What if I live in a rural area — can I still get good internet?
Options have improved significantly. Fixed wireless, satellite (including Starlink), and some rural fibre expansions now cover many areas that were previously underserved. Your choices depend on your specific location. Read our rural internet guide for the latest options in your area.
Ready to Get Connected?
Getting online doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Start with a plan that matches what you’ll actually do — email and video calls don’t need the fastest connection available. Choose a provider that makes things simple, and don’t hesitate to ask for help setting things up.
→ View Get Wifi’s straightforward internet plans — no contracts, no surprises
If you’re in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, Vancouver, Saskatoon, or anywhere in between, we can help you find the right plan. Start with our plan selection guide or jump straight to our current rates.
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