[Discuss] Local ISP recommendations

[Darren Duncan]

This is tangential or similar to or inspired by the recent "local ISP that 
provides externally reachable IP address" thread, but I started a new one since 
I have a question not specific to IP addresses.

I am considering switching to TekSavvy after having been with Shaw basically 
forever.

The choice of TekSavvy is based partly on it being recommended by or used by 
VLUG members over a long period, I see a number of mentions of this ISP in my 
VLUG email archives as far back as 2006 and also earlier this year.

I have been happy with Shaw's service but my concern is more about their pricing 
and their being a big company, and now I'm interested in supporting a smaller 
player that keeps simpler pricing with no contracts.

TekSavvy satisfies that, as well as also provides a phone which I want (and I 
should be able to port my number), in contrast to say an internet-only company 
like Juce which I've also seen recommended.

Currently TekSavvy has a promo for new customers until Jan 31 where I can get 
Gigabit internet for 12 months no contract for $77/month (regular $125/month), 
and also I can get their highest level phone for free (regular $23/month) for 
the first 6 of those months, and I'd pay $15/month thereafter for the mid-level 
phone.  My current Shaw 2 year contract I pay $140/month including taxes 
currently and has 4 months left, would cost 4x$15 to cancel.

Note that Telus fiber isn't an option since my building only has copper and its 
a strata so no unilateral decision to get anything over 150Mbits copper speed.

Note that I don't have/want TV service, though TekSavvy has that too if I did.

So I wanted to confirm that TekSavvy is generally the recommended choice around 
here, that you like and trust.  Or otherwise clarify if any of you actually 
recommend something else more.

And in particular, those with experience with TekSavvy, are there any gotchas or 
potential surprises I should be aware of?  Do you feel they provide good service?

Note that I realize an alternative is I can try and negotiate a better rate with 
Shaw, but I don't currently want to do that, and I like the option of not having 
a contract.

Thank you.

-- Darren Duncan