How to Cut the Cord: A Complete Walkthrough of Ditching Cable TV

Cable TV used to be the gold standard for home entertainment. Today, it’s often expensive, cluttered with channels you never watch, and tied to long-term contracts. Cutting the cord—ditching cable for streaming—can save money and give you more control over what you watch. But where do you start? 

In this Hero Guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from choosing the right streaming services to setting up your hardware and ensuring a smooth transition. 

Step 1: Understand Why You’re Cutting the Cord 

Before you cancel cable, ask yourself: 

• What do you watch most? Sports, movies, news, or local channels? 

• How many TVs do you have? This affects hardware choices. 

• What’s your budget? Streaming can be cheaper, but costs add up if you subscribe to multiple services. 

Knowing your priorities will help you choose the right setup. 

Step 2: Choose Your Streaming Services 

Streaming services fall into two categories: 

On-Demand Services 

• Netflix: Great for movies and original series. 

• Disney+: Perfect for families and Marvel fans. 

• HBO Max: Premium shows and blockbuster films. 

Live TV Services 

• YouTube TV: Closest to cable, with local channels and sports. 

• Hulu + Live TV: Combines live TV with on-demand content. 

• Sling TV: Budget-friendly with customizable channel packages. 

Tip: Make a list of your must-have channels and compare plans before subscribing. 

Step 3: Pick Your Streaming Device 

You’ll need a device to bring streaming apps to your TV. Popular options include: 

• Amazon Fire TV Stick: Affordable and Alexa-enabled. 

• Roku: Simple interface and wide app support. 

• Apple TV: Premium performance and seamless integration for Apple users. 

• Smart TVs: Many come with built-in streaming apps—just make sure they support your chosen services. 

Step 4: Optimize Your Internet Connection 

Streaming requires a strong, stable internet connection: 

• Minimum speed: 10 Mbps for HD, 25 Mbps for 4K. 

• Router placement: Keep it central and unobstructed. 

• Consider a mesh system if you have dead zones or multiple streaming devices. 

Step 5: Set Up Your Accounts and Apps 

Once you’ve chosen your services and device: 

• Download the apps for your streaming platforms. 

• Sign in and customize profiles for family members. 

• Enable parental controls if needed. 

Step 6: Cancel Cable and Return Equipment 

Contact your cable provider to cancel service and return any rented equipment. Make sure you: 

• Get confirmation of cancellation. 

• Avoid hidden fees by returning gear promptly. 

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Freedom 

Cutting the cord means no more paying for channels you don’t watch. You’ll have flexibility, control, and often a lower monthly bill. Plus, you can watch on your terms—anytime, anywhere. 

Pro Tips for a Smooth Transition 

• Bundle smartly: Some services offer discounts when paired (e.g., Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+). 

• Track subscriptions: Use an app or spreadsheet to avoid paying for unused services. 

• Try free trials: Test platforms before committing. 

The Bottom Line 

Cutting the cord isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating a personalized entertainment experience. With the right mix of services, devices, and internet setup, you can enjoy all your favorite content without the cable clutter. 

Give us a call, or fill out the contact form to the right, for a personalized consultation to secure your family's digital life—starting with a smarter streaming setup.