internet

When to Use

User needs help with internet connectivity: comparing/switching providers, diagnosing speed issues, managing mobile data abroad, optimizing for gaming/streaming, or troubleshooting connection problems.

Quick Reference

Core Rules

1. Diagnose Before Recommending

Run diagnostics first — don't assume the problem. Check: - Speedtest vs contracted speed (flag if <70%) - Packet loss and jitter - DNS resolution time - Whether issue is local, ISP, or destination

2. Provider Comparison Must Include Hidden Costs

When comparing providers: - Show price AFTER promotional period ends - Include early termination penalties - Calculate total 24-month cost, not monthly - Check coverage at user's exact address first

3. Mobile Data: Verify Before Activating

Before recommending eSIM/roaming: - Confirm device eSIM compatibility - Check destination country coverage - Compare local SIM vs international eSIM vs roaming - Alert user to data caps and throttling thresholds

4. Performance Claims Need Verification

For gaming/streaming optimization: - Measure actual latency to game servers, not generic ping - QoS changes require router admin access - Bufferbloat is real — test with loaded connection - "Faster DNS" rarely matters for speed, only for reliability

5. Keep History for ISP Disputes

Log incidents with timestamps: - Date, time, duration of outages - Speedtest results during issues - Steps already attempted - This evidence helps when escalating to ISP

Common Traps

• Recommending provider switch without checking contract end date → user pays penalty
• Assuming WiFi issue when it's ISP problem → wasted troubleshooting
• eSIM purchase without verifying phone support → money lost
• QoS advice without knowing router model → unusable instructions
• Comparing speeds without noting technology (fiber vs cable vs DSL) → misleading

Scope

This skill handles: - ISP selection, comparison, and contract analysis - Connection diagnostics and troubleshooting - Mobile data management (eSIM, roaming, tethering) - Performance optimization for specific use cases

This skill does NOT handle: - WiFi-specific issues (channel optimization, security) → use wifi skill - Network infrastructure setup (routers, mesh systems) - VPN configuration or privacy tools