Bundled Phone, TV, Internet FAQ

I get a lot of questions in my email about bundled phone, TV, and Internet services, so I thought I'd take some of the most common questions I get and put them all into a nice little FAQ. These are the 10 most frequently asked questions I receive about bundled packages in no particular order.

Question: Are bundled packages available where I live?
Answer: Contact your local cable or phone company and ask if they offer bundled services.

Question: Can I get cable TV from my phone company?
Answer: Generally no, but you may be able to get satellite TV through your phone company.

Question: How much does it cost?
Answer: A bundle simply refers to the services combined on your bill. You have different TV programming packages, Internet speeds, and calling plans available to meet your specific needs, so price really depends on the levels of service you choose; However, most advertised prices reflect a preconfigured package set by the provider.

Question: Can I get DSL from my cable provider?
Answer: No. Cable companies do offer high speed or broadband Internet service, but DSL is a form of broadband that travels over a telephone landline.

Question: Is DSL Internet faster than cable?
Answer: Not necessarily. Whatever rate of speed you pay for is the maximum speed you can get regardless of it being DSL or cable Internet.

Question: Is cable phone service the same as landline?
Answer: No. Cable phone service is often referred to as digital phone. It takes advantage of VoIP technology which makes it possible to make phone calls using your Internet connection and a normal telephone. No computer or software is needed.

Question: How is the quality of cable phone service?
Answer: In most cases excellent, but just like landline phone service it depends on your location, and service provider.

Question: What comes in a bundled package?
Answer: Most generally phone, TV, and Internet service, but a bundle can consist of two or more services on the same bill.

Question: How is a phone bundle different from a cable bundle?
Answer: Cable bundles consist of cable TV, cable Internet, and digital phone, while phone bundles consist of satellite TV, DSL Internet, landline phone, and sometimes cellular. Some phone companies now offer fiber optic services as well.

Question: Will I save money by bundling my services?
Answer: In most cases you'll save a little money during a promotional period, and will still continue to receive a small discount after the promo period expires by having your services on one bill. After the promotional period it's still a good idea to reconfigure your services to match your budget, lifestyle, and your personal usage habits.

As mentioned in one of the answers above, it is a good idea to check with your phone, or cable company to see if they offer a way for you to bundle, but keep an eye out for special offers, or make sure to ask if they have any before you sign up. Especially if you're a new customer.