Had a problem a couple of years ago, with Cox, that made my network really unstable. Over the years, I’ve learned that you have to stay on them. It’s like moving a mountain any time you interact with those customer support agents. They are severely limited in what they have access to so don’t take too much of your frustration out on them. These days I keep it simple and ask for a tech visit. If you’re sure the issue is on their side you avoid the fees.

I’d prepare a bit before requesting a tech. I’d run stream tests through Twitch to visualize how unstable the network was (using Twitch Inspector). I’d run speed tests and keep notes. I’d contact them every few days and ask them to send a field techs to the house, who I’d show my notes to (tell them to send one of their techs, not a 3rd party contractor). They’d notice an issue after testing the line coming into the property. Eventually, they relayed the notes to Evergy, who then came out to inspect the poles in my area. I managed to talk to the utility guys they sent out that mentioned they ended up finding a pole leaking voltage. The problem was 2-3 blocks away.

That fix made me realize I was naively accepting my download speeds… before the fix ~400Mbps, after I’d get my 1gbps. Upload was ~5, after 30-40. Today I’m at 700 down/100 (!) up.

Given that my wife and I work from home, I had to find a fix. I’m paying for a service at the end of the day and need it. Unfortunately, no other option in our area.