Quick answer: To cut the cord and switch to IPTV, (1) test an IPTV service on your own TV and internet with a free trial, (2) confirm you have about 10 Mbps per HD stream, (3) set up every TV and phone in the house, (4) run IPTV alongside cable for a week or two, then (5) cancel the TV part of your cable bill, keep internet only, and return all equipment.
Key takeaways
- Never cancel cable before testing IPTV on your own connection.
- Keep your internet service — IPTV runs on it.
- Return every box and remote to avoid equipment fees.
- Check for contract early-termination fees before you call.
Step 1: List what you actually watch
Write down the shows, sports and channels each person in the house watches in a typical week, and how many people watch at the same time. That tells you which features matter and how many simultaneous screens you need.
Step 2: Test IPTV first
Start a free trial and use it the way you'll really use it — on the main TV, in the evening, during a live game. Check that the channels you need are there and that the program guide works. Multivision IPTV offers a free 3-hour trial with no credit card.
Our checklist for choosing an IPTV service explains what to test.
Step 3: Check your internet
| Household | Suggested download speed |
|---|---|
| 1 screen in HD | 10 Mbps |
| 2–3 screens in HD | 25–35 Mbps |
| 4 screens, some in 4K | 75 Mbps or more |
Run a speed test on the TV itself (not just your phone), in the evening. If speeds are low, a wired Ethernet connection or a better router placement usually helps more than upgrading your plan.
Step 4: Set up every screen
| Device | Guide |
|---|---|
| Amazon Firestick / Fire TV | Best IPTV apps for Firestick |
| Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, Hisense TVs | IPTV on a Smart TV |
| Android TV / Google TV | Android TV setup |
| iPhone and iPad | IPTV on iPhone & iPad |
| MAG box | MAG box setup |
Step 5: Run both side by side
Keep cable for a week or two while the household uses IPTV day to day. Add favorites, set up the guide, and show everyone how to use catch-up TV. Once nobody reaches for the cable remote, you're ready.
Step 6: Choose your plan
| Plan | Price | Per month |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | $39.99 | $13.33 |
| 6 months | $55.99 | $9.33 |
| 12 months | $79.99 | $6.67 |
| 24 months | $129.99 | $5.42 |
Prices are for one screen; see 2–4 screen pricing on the home page.
Step 7: Cancel cable the right way
- Check your contract for an end date and early-termination fee.
- Call or chat with your provider and ask to remove TV service and keep internet only.
- Ask about the new internet-only price, since bundle discounts often disappear.
- Decline retention offers unless they genuinely beat your new setup.
- Get a confirmation number and the date TV billing stops.
Step 8: Return your equipment
Return every cable box, DVR and remote, and keep the receipt or tracking number. Unreturned equipment is one of the most common surprise charges after canceling.
Step 9: Add an antenna (optional)
A one-time-purchase antenna gives you local broadcast stations for free and makes a handy backup during internet outages.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my internet if I cancel cable TV?+
Usually, yes. Most providers let you cancel the TV part of a bundle and keep internet only. Ask whether your internet price changes once the bundle discount ends.
Do I need to return my cable box?+
Yes. Return every cable box, DVR and remote to avoid unreturned-equipment fees. Ask for a receipt or tracking number as proof.
How long does switching to IPTV take?+
Setting up IPTV takes about 5 minutes per TV. Most households test it for a few days or weeks alongside cable, then cancel cable once they're happy.
Ready to try it yourself?
Get a free 3-hour trial — no credit card required. Our team sets it up for you.
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