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 | Topic | File | |-------|------| | Provider comparison | `providers.md` | | Diagnostics | `diagnostics.md` | | Mobile connectivity | `mobile.md` | | Performance optimization | `performance.md` | ## 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