What do I return when I cancel AT&T internet?

  • Posted on: 10 Aug 2024
    What do I return when I cancel AT&T internet?

  • Should you find yourself unable to use AT&T Internet services, there could be some equipment that might be returned. Here is a guide on what you usually have to return when you discontinue AT&T Internet and on how to handle returning it: Here is guidance on what you usually have to return when canceling AT&T Internet and how to approach returning it:

    Certain wireless equipment such as the modem, gateway, or modem/router combo device rented out from AT&T has to be returned as and when a customer cancels the service. Fiber: As for ATT’s fiber internet service, the company offers specific equipment to facilitate the connection for the service to work.

    When you cancel the service, AT&T will be returning a package containing a shipping label to the equipment. It is very easy and all one has to do is pack the apparatus in a box, stick the return label on the box, and then take the box to a UPS Store. It is this process that is the most convenient to return your rented AT&T hardware.

    Nonetheless, the modem may be returned at any AT&T retail location should for any reason the prepaid return kit be not obtained. You only have to drop it off to them; they will take it up from you when you are finished.

    Should you discontinue the internet service and fail to return the modem within thirty days, AT&T might try to reclaim the whole retail value of the modem. Therefore, keep in mind to get it returned right away after you end your account or when you are done using it.

    ONT Box

    Should you find yourself using AT&T Fiber internet at home, you will also have an ONT or Optical Network Terminal where the fiber connection finishes. This converts the fiber optic signal into ethernet and, more practically, serves as a modem for fiber internet.

    ONT box is normally fixed on either the inside or outside wall of the house, though it mostly hangs outside. I also want to note that this piece of equipment is owned by AT&T, and it has to be returned if the fiber service is canceled.

    However, AT&T will send a technician to come and take the ONT box, which is a device that connects the Internet to the customer’s home. You can request a cancellation and at the same time make an appointment for a pick-up at your convenience time. The AT&T tech will disconnect the optical fiber wiring and then physically take the ONT box from your premises.

    Thus, you don’t have to spend time thinking about how to unmount and deliver the box back because AT&T will collect their fiber equipment once the cancellation is complete. As long as the hardware is to be picked up by the client, just make sure that you grant them access to pick up the hardware at the agreed time.

    WiFi Routers

    So, if you bought your WiFi router and plugged it into AT&T’s modem/gateway box, then that wireless router is yours. When you cancel your service with AT&T, it is acceptable to keep personal stereos, computers, televisions, and other electronic devices that are not affiliated with this company.

    The only routers that you would have to return are those with the AT&T label if you had subscribed to a service that came with a leased or rental router in addition to purchasing one. These should be returned as rented cable modems and gateway boxes with the added appeal that they do not cost money to rent.

    So make sure that you own the router before you can plan on keeping it or having it set up in your home during and/or after the transition from AT&T Internet. Personal-owned routers, on the other hand, will not need to be revisited.

    Cable Lines

    Where there are internet cables that have been fixed in the walls of the homes and throughout the house, are fixed permanently and are part of the structures. As a rule, CAT5 or coaxial data lines are considered to be basic wiring and therefore, should be left to the owner, unless you have invited an electrician to install some specific equipment.

    This way, you do not have to be concerned about the process of eliminating the wires that are concealed within walls or beneath the floor when planning to get rid of AT&T Internet. The cable line securing the connection is the incoming line itself, and the necessary deactivation will be performed by AT&T without your interference.

    In summary, ensure the return of modems, gateways, or any other AT&T-owned hardware if rented through the prepaid shipping label or by dropping equipment at an AT&T store. If fiber is present, you should allow AT&T to enter your home to allow technicians to remove the ONT box. The WiFi routers other than those provided by AT&T remain intact, and all internal wiring remains as it is.

    As far as I know, the actions presented in the list of steps for giving back equipment should include all the returns when canceling your AT&T internet connection. Representing the note that one just has to be punctual in returning rental devices so that the company does not charge for them. Lastly, if there is ever any confusion as to whether certain equipment did belong to you, or if it has to be returned to AT&T, one can always consult with their support before the final date of cancellation.