Toronto
TV & Internet in Toronto
TV
Television format conforms to North American standards of a typically 30-minute programming grid, commercials, etc. A TV license in not required in Canada.
Channels
Although the government has made it mandatory to meet a quota for networks showing Canadian content, TV in Canada is strongly influence by it's southern neighbor, the US. Canada uses digital only broadcasting in 2010, which requires a subscription from cable provider if you would like to access TV channels.
Cable TV
Cable is widely available in Toronto. It is common for providers to sell bundle packages to their customers which also includes landlines and wireless internet.
Installation is usually arranged online through the provider's website or by telephone. You first must set-up an account with your provider. This includes providing all of your basic contact information (name, address, telephone number, email address). You may also be asked to provide a credit card number and/or credit history. If you do not have a credit history in Canada you may be required to put down a deposit on your account. A request for service is placed and a technician visits your home. If you there is equipment in place, it may just take changing the name on the contract and setting-up payments. Be advised that you may be required to get permission from your landlord or property manager to install certain satellites, particularly if your installer will be drilling through interior or exterior walls. Disconnection fees are applicable if you break your contract.
Bundle service average from $80-$100 for each month.
Cable Providers in Toronto:
Satellite TV
Direct-broadcast satellite services are also known as direct-to-home or DTH. Satellite services usually start at $40 per month for basic service and $110 per month for premium services. Most TV service providers allow you to access your account and pay bills online, by telephone, or personally at an office or outlet. TV subscription services are normally bundled with a phone line and broadband internet.
Installation is usually arranged online through the provider's website or by telephone. You first must set-up an account with your provider. This includes providing all of your basic contact information (name, address, telephone number, email address). You may also be asked to provide a credit card number and/or credit history. If you do not have a credit history in Canada you may be required to put down a deposit on your account. A request for service is placed, a technician will come to your home, and installation should be completed within a week. Installation fees may be waived during promotions, or delayed. Beware that you may also be charged monthly fees to rent a receiver or satellite from your provider. Be advised that you may be required to get permission from your landlord or property manager to install certain satellites, particularly if your installer will be drilling through interior or exterior walls.
Disconnection fees are applicable if you break your contract.
Satellite TV Providers in Toronto:
Internet in Toronto
Because of its large size, Canada is one of the more expensive countries for wireless internet for residential packages, but the internet quality is good.
Most providers charge from $25-$110 a month and can be purchased for a monthly fee on a 1, 2 or 3-year contract. Be aware that many companies advertise introductory price offers, and that per monthly fees are likely to increase after 3, 6, or 12 months of your contract. You may also be charged monthly fees to rent equipment.
Most Internet providers allow you to access your account and pay bills online, by telephone, or personally at an office or outlet. Internet service is usually bundled with either cable or satellite TV service and a phone line. Installation fees are applicable, although some providers may offer free installation as an incentive. Disconnection fees are applicable if you break your contract.
Providers
Installation
Contact your preferred provider and they can usually set-up an appointment over the phone or online. Installation may be necessary if the necessary wiring and equipment is not already installed.
Documents required:
- Proof of identity
- Utility bill or tenancy agreement
- Deposit
Internet Café in Toronto
Internet cafes can be found throughout Toronto. Costs vary from $2.00-5.00 per hour. Printing, scanning, gaming, and other services are usually an additional fee. Cafes may also be a target for thieves and pickpockets so take care of your belongings.
WiFi in Toronto
Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places in Canada, including public parks, libraries, schools, airports, hotels, electronics stores and some cafes and restaurants such as Starbucks or Tim Horton's. Acknowledge that it is expected that you buy something to use the WiFi. Free, public access computers are also available at libraries across Canada, but you will need a library card to use one.
Update 18/08/2018
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