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Choosing a reliable internet service provider in today's time is tricky. With so many localized and nationwide ISPs available, it's often a challenge for Americans to find and stick to one. However, AT&T is a trusted and popular choice when it comes to ISPs. With its widespread availability, diversity of internet types, and value-packed internet bundles, AT&T stands atop in the U.S. telecom industry.

Today, we’ll be taking you through the process that your AT&T internet subscription entails—meaning, the AT&T internet installation process. Whether you have just subscribed to AT&T services or you are planning to make the investment, the information we discuss here may come in very handy. And, answer many of your questions about getting the service off the ground.

Should I Buy Or Rent My AT&T Equipment?

There are several factors to consider before making the final call. And, the cost is a major factor. It makes a huge difference to your monthly internet bill. Currently, AT&T charges $10 a month for the gateway device that it provides with its internet service. While $10 might not seem like much upfront, it adds up more than $100 a year. So, purchasing your own modem could save you hundreds of dollars.

Except, AT&T does not allow subscribers to use their own modem or gateway device to connect to the AT&T network. You can only use a router behind the AT&T provided gateway device. This way AT&T ensures only the best compatible modem is utilized and your internet connection performs optimally.

Plus AT&T ensures that tech support is readily available to take care of any problems with the equipment it gives you—even when the gateway device requires an upgrade, AT&T takes care of that for you. Meaning when you pay the $10 equipment fee, you pay for more than just the device rental because AT&T gives you its full support all included. And, you no longer have to carry the headache of fixing your own equipment.

We’d recommend unless you're skilled enough to service your own router, you stick to the wireless gateway device given to you by AT&T.

Self-installation or Pro-installation: What should You Choose?

Upon signing up for the AT&T internet service, you get offered 2 different installation options. You can either ask for a pro-install or order a self-install kit, and do it all by yourself. The difference between self and professional installation is essentially subjective. For instance, while many opt for professional installation to prevent technical mishaps, others choose to save money by installing it themselves.

To help you understand the difference better, and make the right decision, here are the pros and cons of each.

What's Lighter on the Pocket?

Having an AT&T technician install your service is convenient and makes things hassle-free. Especially if you're not tech-savvy. But, this ease comes at a cost. Calling an AT&T professional to install your internet service will cost you $99. Unless you qualify for a waiver because you bundle internet with AT&T TV or DIRECTV.

AT&T installation fee isn't out of line—most ISPs in the U.S. charge as much or more. But, if you are on a budget, and don’t want the burden of additional upfront costs, it makes sense to drop it. Well, you can go for the self-install option in that case. The AT&T self-install kit is free of cost and gets to your doorstep as soon as the next day.

How Long Does AT&T internet Installation Take?

Time is expensive in this age. With so many juggling jobs and working double shifts, it is difficult to spare hours for trivial tasks. In case you're one such person and do not have someone above the age of 18 available at home during the pro-install, we’d say go for a self-install. Not only will you save some money, but be at liberty to install the service at your own convenience. No need to fix a time for the professional to come and do the job. The AT&T self-install kit will allow you to install the powerful AT&T internet service at any time feasible for you.

On the other hand, opting for professional installation will require you to fix a date and time for the technician to come and install the service. As easy and convenient as this sounds, you will have to adjust your day’s schedule according to the available installation window. And, free up to 4 hours of your day to get the service up and running. So, if you run by a schedule that is not very fixed, and you cannot spare as much time to wait around, opting for a self-install kit may be the way to go for you.

Are You Ready to Deal with Technical Errors?

What's easier than letting someone else handle the installation? Choosing pro-install will get an expert technician at your doorstep at the appointed time. You’ll only need to be present on the premises and supervise as necessary. The AT&T professionals are well versed in the process, and also equipped to deal with any mishaps.

On the contrary, deciding to self-install requires you to put in your best effort to set up the service. You must be willing to tackle any technical difficulties by yourself. AT&T claims no technical know-how is necessary to be able to use the self-install kit. But, when you are dealing with technology unanticipated errors and glitches can show up. And, this can be incredibly nerve-wracking when you're not tech-savvy. Subsequently, you may need a technician to do the job which you come to find beyond your ability.

If you have the patience as well as technical knowledge and skill to understand the process and configure the system yourself, go ahead and self-install your new fast AT&T internet service. However, if you believe you are likely to face a lot of hassle installing it by yourself, contact AT&T customer support and ask for pro-installation. It's the safest option to choose when you're not sure of yourself.

Did You Decide Yet?

Choosing between the two isn't a challenge when you know what you're looking for. If you're on a tight budget, don't have time, and have the skills to tackle unexpected complications yourself, order the AT&T self-install kit and get to work. However, if you're not tech-savvy, have sufficient time and budget, and prefer convenience over anything else, you can opt for pro-installation for a hassle-free experience. Either way, it all comes down to what you prefer.

If your choice boils down to self-install your AT&T internet service, read on to learn how to do it!

How to Set up AT&T Internet Yourself

Now that you've decided to set up the AT&T internet box, the first thing you need to do is order the installation kit.

How to Order an AT&T Self Installation Kit?

If you plan on installing the internet service yourself, you must request a self-installation kit when signing up for your service. If you signed up but didn't request a kit earlier, you can get in touch with AT&T Customer Support, , and you will receive it by mail—FREE of cost as we said earlier.

What Comes in The Kit?

Your kit will include the following items:

Ensure you have all the above items included in your kit. Once you've made sure, get to work!

Things to Remember Before You Start

Guide Yourself Through the AT&T Internet Installation Process

Setting up your AT&T internet service is easier than you may think. With a caveat. You must follow the instructions carefully, be patient with yourself, and bank on your brainpower. So, let's begin!

The instructions:

Please note, if you have the AT&T home phone service as well, you will get single and double port filters included in the kit. For Gateway and phone, you will need to use a dual-port filter in the wall jack.

Set up AT&T Internet Service via Pro Install

If you've chosen to take help from a professional, there's not much you have to do except get an appointment and prepare for the technician's arrival on the given date and time.

How to Set Up an Appointment?

You can ask for pro-installation when signing up for the AT&T internet service. The appointment window is usually 2 hours. And, you receive the date and time when you order the service. You can view the status of your appointment and order here. And, also change the time. In case you wish to cancel the appointment, you need to contact AT&T Customer Service.

If you opt to get text alerts, you will receive a reminder on the day of the appointment. The AT&T Tech Tracker tool can also be used to view information about the technician’s location.

How Do I Prepare?

Here is an AT&T checklist for preparation before the appointment.

After You Have Setup AT&T Internet Service

Activate Your Internet Service

After you have set up the AT&T internet service, it is now time to activate it.

Make sure you have your home phone number, and the internet account number handy. As well as your Member ID/Access ID and password. New customers will be asked to set up security questions/answers. The online activation will start automatically, however, if it does not this is what you must do—access att.net/activate in a new browser window. And follow the prompts to activate your all-new fast and reliable AT&T internet service.

Set up AT&T Internet in-home Wi-Fi

Now, we come to the in-home Wi-Fi network set up. So that everyone in the family gets to enjoy AT&T high-speed internet. But, you can relax. It is the easiest of all. On your device(s) go to Settings, select your Wi-Fi Network Name (SSID), and enter the password printed on the label on your Gateway.

It is advisable that you log into att.com/smarthomemanager or the Smart Home Manager app as a top priority. And, change your AT&T in-home Wi-Fi network information. This will help you keep your network safe and secure.

To Wrap it All Up

Choosing between self-installation and professional installation isn't as difficult as you imagine it to be. While choosing AT&T professional installation saves you from the headache of troubleshooting issues every now and then, self-installation saves you money and time. Whatever you choose, you won't see a reason to quit using AT&T's fast and reliable internet. Best of luck with your DIY effort!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is self-installation a cheaper option?

Having an AT&T technician install your service is convenient and makes things hassle-free. Especially if you're not tech-savvy. But, this ease comes at a cost. Calling an AT&T professional to install your internet service will cost you $99. The AT&T self-install kit is free of cost and gets to your doorstep as soon as the next day.

What comes in The Kit?

Your kit will include the following items:

  • AT&T Wi-Fi gateway device—a 2 in 1 modem cum router device.
  • Green cable.
  • Yellow Ethernet cable.
  • Black power cord.
  • Gray cable (for the AT&T phone service).
  • Detailed instruction manual.

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