For many people, having a speedy Internet connection is a necessity like food and water. We use the Internet for work, school and communicating with family and friends. Fortunately, you may be able to lower your monthly cost without much effort.

BUNDLE SERVICES

You may get broadband, telephone and television from up to three different providers. Bundling those services with one company could lower your monthly bills. Or you might get an extra service at no extra cost.

Cable companies and telephone companies are now fierce competitors. Cable providers offer broadband, television and Internet-based phone service.

Telephone companies offer DSL broadband. They are also teaming with satellite television providers.

Some telephone providers also offer television over broadband lines. That's how AT&T's U-verse and Verizon's FiOS TV services work.

EVALUATE YOUR NEEDS

Before you sign up for a bundle, evaluate your needs. Don't pay for what you don't need or won't really use. You may be able to cut some of your existing services.

For example, ask your DSL provider for a naked DSL line. This provides broadband but not telephone service. You'll pay about $5 more monthly for DSL service but should save roughly $10 a month overall. You probably rely on your cell phone more than a landline, anyway.

You can also save by lowering your broadband speed. Many people don't need a super-fast connection. Dropping down a tier will save $15 or more monthly.

Of course, maybe your phone has Internet access. In that case, you may not need a home broadband connection. You can check e-mail and get driving directions on most cell phones. You can also do quick Internet searches.

Should you need to access the Internet from a computer, use a free hotspot. Or, some cellular providers allow tethering. You connect your phone to your computer via cable or Bluetooth. It works as a modem.

Of course, if you bundle services, look at your television programming, too. Do you really need 400 channels? Trim back to the essentials. This can save you $20 or more monthly.

To save an extra $10 or more, consider foregoing high-definition programming. With sets that are 30 inches or smaller, you probably won't notice the difference.

You can also eliminate DVR subscription fees. Instead, buy a TV tuner card for your computer. For about $50, it adds DVR functionality.

COMPARE PRICES

Before you sign up for new broadband service, compare prices. Comparing broadband prices can be tricky — especially when you're bundling broadband with other services.

Visit White Fence, Digital Landing or Allconnect. These help you compare local broadband (and bundled service) prices. You'll find links at www.Komando.com/news.

A comparison site may not list all of your options. Check several sites to make sure you cover all local providers.