FCC Requiring Broadband Consumer Labels  

Shopping for internet service can be confusing even when you’re tech-savvy.

Ever had a hard time figuring out exactly what an internet service provider (ISP) was offering?

You may have found it tough to locate details even for basic plan features like speeds and equipment fees.

All that is about to change. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently made a new rule that broadband providers have to use simple labels that show the key details of their services [1].

These labels are designed to help you compare your options and choose the best one for your broadband needs. Read on to learn more about how broadband consumer labels will help you.

What is in a Broadband Consumer Label? 

A broadband consumer label is a handy guide that tells you the key features and costs of a broadband service plan.

This label works like the nutrition labels that you find on food products. It even looks a lot like a nutrition label. But instead of calories and ingredients, the label tells you the internet speed, data usage, price, and other details of the broadband service.

Because the broadband consumer label is digital, it can include links. This allows you to get even more information than can be included on the template.

The FCC has made a sample for the broadband consumer label:

 

 

How to read the label 

As you can see, the label shows you lots of valuable information about the internet plan.

• Provider name and internet plan name: Plan names change frequently, so even these basic details are handy to have on a clear label.
• Monthly price: ISPs must state whether the price is an introductory rate or not. If it is a special intro rate, they must tell you how long it will last. ISPs must also state what the regular rate will be after the promotional rate expires.
• Additional charges & terms: Internet providers must clearly list any extra fees you pay. One-time fees at the time of purchase (such as installation fees) and early termination fees will be listed. The ISPs also have to tell you if taxes are included, or if you pay extra for taxes.
• Discounts & bundles: Internet providers must give links to any discounts or billing options that come from bundling cell phone or TV services. They also must mention if you can use your own modem/router and avoid a rental fee.
• Download speeds and upload speeds: This is how fast you can get and send data from and to the internet using your broadband service. The label shows you the internet speed you are likely to get. That speed may go up or down depending on things like how many people are online, what devices you use, or what the weather is like.
• Latency: This is how long it takes for stuff to travel between your device and the internet. Lower latency means better and smoother online experiences, especially for things that happen in real time, like playing games or video chatting.
• Data allowance: This shows how much data you can use every month without paying more or triggering slower speeds. Some broadband plans let you use as much as you want, while others have a limit or a warning. If you use too much, you may have to pay extra or get slower speeds until the next month.
• Data overage charges: If there are charges for using too much data, the ISP must list them.
• Network management practices: This is a statement of how the broadband provider runs its network to make sure it doesn’t waste its resources or play favorites. Some providers may use methods like traffic priority, congestion management, or application-specific behaviors. The ISP must include links to its network management policies on the label.

 

Broadband Consumer Label Requirements  

The FCC’s rule requires broadband providers to use the broadband consumer label template (or a similar format) to show the information described above.

The providers must make the labels easy to see on their websites or at their points of sale. The providers must also update the labels when there are changes in the terms and conditions of their services.

Who must follow the FCC rule? 

The rule applies to all kinds of broadband services, including fixed (such as cable, DSL, or fiber) and mobile (such as cellular or satellite) services.

The rule does not change the actual speeds, prices, or policies of broadband services. It only says that the providers must show them accurately and clearly to consumers.

The FCC asks consumers to use the labels to compare different broadband options and to report any problems or complaints to the FCC or other related authorities.

The Reason for Broadband Consumer Labels 

The FCC’s rule is a big step towards making broadband better and fairer in the US. The FCC says that the main point of the broadband consumer labels is to give consumers the power to choose the best broadband for them. The FCC wants the labels to help consumers:

• Understand the main features and fees of their broadband service and how they influence their online activities and spending.
• Shop around for different broadband plans and providers based on their speed, data usage, cost, and other things.
• Dodge any surprises or hidden charges that may happen from using too much data or quitting their contract early.
• Fix any problems or complaints with their broadband provider by having a simple and accurate record of their service terms and conditions.
• The FCC also thinks that consumer labels will help internet providers by:
• Lowering customer confusion, annoyance, and dissatisfaction with their broadband service and increasing customer loyalty and satisfaction.
• Improving their reputation and trust as clear and honest providers of broadband service.
• Making it easier for them to follow the FCC’s disclosure rules and avoiding penalties.

The FCC’s Chairwoman, Jessica Rosenworcel, stated that consumers will now be equipped to “make informed choices about which high-speed internet plan is the best fit for their needs and budget” [2].

How the Labels Will Impact Consumers Buying Internet 

The broadband consumer labels are a new and helpful tool for consumers who are looking for a new broadband service or who want to check their current broadband service.

 Here’s how the broadband consumer labels can help you: 

• Save money by picking a broadband plan that fits your data usage and avoiding extra charges.
• Save time by comparing different broadband choices and finding the best deal for your needs.
• Avoid trouble by knowing what to expect from your broadband service and how to deal with any problems.

Stay aware of all your internet provider options 

Don’t think that the labels are all you need to know before choosing a broadband service. The labels might not tell you everything or anything that matters to you, such as customer care, dependability, coverage, or safety.

The labels might also not reflect the real speed or quality of your broadband service, which might vary depending on things that your provider has no say over, such as your location, device, or network conditions.

So, you can always double-check some of this information here at CompareInternet.com by using tools like our speed test. Our resource library and expert staff reviews can give you all the clarity you need.

A step forward, but not a magic wand 

The broadband consumer labels are a positive move toward holding the broadband providers more accountable and honest.

Labels will give you and other broadband users more rights and power. But they are not a magic wand that will solve all the problems or challenges that you face in the broadband market.

As a consumer, you should always be cautious and informed about your broadband options. Use the resources and tools that are here on our site to make the best choice for your broadband needs.

When Will the New Consumer Labels for Internet Service Appear? 

There are two phases for the roll-out of the FCC’s internet consumer labeling plan [3].

Small internet providers (under 100K subscribers) don’t have to use the broadband consumer labels until October 10, 2024.

Large internet providers (over 100K subscribers) must act much sooner. Their labels will need to be in place by April 10, 2024.

Enter your zip code for a list of providers and plans in your area.

 

FAQs: Broadband Consumer Labels 

What’s a broadband consumer label? 

A broadband consumer label is a simple way for internet service providers to show you the main features and costs of their internet plans.

What does a broadband consumer label show me? 

A broadband consumer label shows you plan details like how much you’ll pay each month, how much data you can use, how fast your internet will be, and how well the network performs.

Why does speed matter in my internet plan? 

See our internet speed guide for a complete overview of how your speed will affect your internet activities.

How do I use broadband consumer labels to make a smart choice? 

You can use broadband consumer labels to see how different plans from different providers stack up against each other. You can also check if the plan matches your internet needs, like online gaming, or working remotely.

What if I see something wrong or fishy in the broadband consumer label of my plan? 

If you see something wrong or fishy in the broadband consumer label of your plan, you should reach out to your provider and ask them to explain or fix it. If you’re not happy with their answer, you can file a complaint with the FCC online, by phone, or by mail [4].

Can broadband consumer labels help me find the best internet provider near me? 

Yes, broadband consumer labels can be a part of your search for the best internet provider. Use them along with our resources about cheap internet deals and how to find a good provider. Or enter your zip code now to see providers in your area!

 

Sources

[1] LightReading.com. “FCC Requires Most Broadband Labels by April 2024."

[2] FCC.gov. “FCC Announces Broadband Labels."

[3] LightReading.com. “FCC Requires Most Broadband Labels by April 2024."

[4] FCC.gov. “Consumer Complaints."

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