Key recommendation: For short-term use, choose providers with flexible terms (month-to-month) or mobile solutions (prepaid SIM cards and portable Wi-Fi), as most traditional fixed contracts require a minimum term of 12 months.
1. Types of Internet services in Calgary
1.1 Fixed Home Internet
- Connects via cable (coaxial), DSL, or fiber optic network.
- Preferred providers: Shaw, Telus, Rogers.
- Typically a 1- or 2-year contract with a fixed monthly fee.
1.2 Month-to-Month Contracts
- Allow you to cancel at any time without penalties, but have a higher monthly fee.
- Telus PureFibre and Rogers Ignite offer a month-to-month option for new or existing customers.
- May require a higher activation fee and no discounts.
1.3 Mobile Internet (Cellular Data)
- Portable modems (“MiFi”) or USB devices with prepaid SIM cards.
- Providers: Bell, Telus (Koodo), Rogers (Fido).
- Flexible 30-day plans with no long-term commitments.
1.4 Satellite Internet Services
- Option for remote areas: Starlink, Xplornet.
- Connection without long-term contracts, but high equipment costs and monthly fees.
2. Standard Contract Terms
| Provider | Minimum term | Early termination fee | Month-to-month option | Equipment transfer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shaw | 12 months | $45/month until end | No | Can be purchased |
| Telus | 12–24 months | $20/month balance | Yes (Premium plans) | Rent or buy |
| Rogers | 12 months | $75/month balance | Yes (Ignite Flex plan) | Rent |
| Starlink | No contract | None | – | Purchase equipment |
3. Advantages and disadvantages of short-term contracts
3.1 Advantages
- Flexibility: ability to change plan or provider without penalties.
- No long-term commitments.
- Fast connection and service termination.
3.2 Disadvantages
- Higher monthly cost compared to long-term contracts.
- Possibility of lower connection quality or network priority (with Rogers Ignite Flex).
- Additional activation and equipment costs.
4. Alternatives for short-term access
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Month-to-Month: Telus PureFibre Flex, Rogers Ignite Flex – higher price, but no commitment.
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Prepaid mobile modems:
AM Goldsmith -
Koodo Prepaid Mobile Wi-Fi: plans starting at $50 CAD for 30 GB.
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Fido Prepaid Mobile Internet: starting at $70 CAD for 20 GB.
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Guest Wi-Fi (for rental properties): Some condos or AirBnBs offer ready-made solutions with daily or weekly payment.
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Public access points (Free Wi-Fi): Calgary Public Library, shopping malls, coffee shops – accessible points for temporary needs.
Ukrainian Mechanic
5. How to get short-term internet
- Determine your needs: traffic volume, speed (minimum 25–50 Mbps for normal use).
- Contact your chosen provider: check the availability of a month-to-month option and the activation conditions.
- Agree on equipment: modem/router rental or purchase of your own.
- Sign a contract specifying the term or month-to-month.
- Upon expiration, notify the provider in a timely manner of your desire to cancel the service.
6. Recommendations for newcomers to Canada
- Choose month-to-month if you are staying in Calgary for less than 6 months.
- Carefully check the activation fee and equipment cost.
- Keep copies of all contracts in English to confirm payment and terms.
- If you encounter any difficulties, contact the Alberta Consumer Protection Office for advice on consumer rights.
Conclusion: Although most traditional providers require a minimum 12-month contract, there are flexible month-to-month options and mobile solutions available on the market that allow you to access the internet for a short period without long-term commitments. For Ukrainian newcomers, this is the best way to ensure internet access during their adjustment period in Calgary.