Identify the access technology
Fiber uses an optical connection to the premises. Cable uses a cable access network. Fixed wireless connects a home gateway over radio. A mobile hotspot shares a phone or portable device's service under its own allowance.
Ask what is actually available at the full address, including unit number. Nearby availability and a mobile coverage map do not establish eligibility. Review the provider's broadband label and terms for the offered product.
Check equipment and installation
Determine whether a modem, optical terminal, router or combined gateway is supplied. Ask who owns it, whether it must be returned and whether your own equipment is supported. Installation arrangements can differ between a wired service and a self-installed gateway.
Wi-Fi is the connection inside the home, not the same thing as the internet access line. A poor bedroom signal may need router placement or Wi-Fi improvements rather than a different broadband plan.
Test the tasks the household relies on
Consider uploads, video meetings, online games, concurrent users and work VPN requirements. A peak download figure alone does not describe latency, stability or upload capacity. Use a wired test where practical to separate access performance from Wi-Fi.
Check data policies, equipment charges, post-introductory terms and any mobile bundle. On departure, obtain return instructions and confirm that cancelling one product does not leave another service running unintentionally.