Consider buying your modem

Both cable and DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) high-speed Internet service require the use of a modem to function correctly. When signing up for the Internet service, you may be asked whether you want to lease or buy the modem.

Even if you are not asked, find out if you have the option. In many cases, buying the modem (or a compatible modem) can end up saving you money over time. Lease rates can be anywhere from a couple of dollar to 10 or more dollars per month.

Do the math: Calculate the minimum amount of time (in months) that you expect to keep the Internet service and multiply by the per-month lease rate. If this number is larger than how much it would cost to buy the modem, then purchasing the modem may be the wisest choice.