The Truth About Apartments With Free Wi-Fi

2024-11-29

In recent years, an increasing number of rental properties have begun offering free internet access, making it an attractive option for renters looking to cut down on living expenses. For many, free internet is now considered a key priority when choosing a place to live.

However, free internet is not without its drawbacks. Common issues include slow connection speeds and unstable Wi-Fi. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of free internet and offer tips on how to improve your connection for a better online experience.

Village House offers a range of benefits for renters, including no deposit, key money, renewal fees, or additional charges. Plus, we provide affordable rental options starting from just 20,000 yen per month (campaigns vary by property). If you’re in search of a new rental property, be sure to visit our website to learn more about our available listings and find the perfect home for you.

What does “free internet” mean in rental properties?

A rental property with free internet means that the property owner covers the cost of the internet connection, allowing residents to use the service at no additional charge. The necessary infrastructure, including line installation, is already in place, so you can start using the internet as soon as you move in.

For many people, having a reliable internet connection is an essential part of daily life. As a result, free internet can be a significant factor to consider when searching for a rental property.

How to use free internet in rental properties

There are two main ways to connect to the internet on a rental property: via Wi-Fi or a wired LAN connection.

Connect via Wi-Fi

This is similar to the Wi-Fi available in stores and hotels.

To connect:

Turn on the Wi-Fi setting on your device (such as a PC, smartphone, or tablet).

Select the available network and enter the ID and password provided by your management company or landlord.

Connect via wired LAN

When using a wired LAN connection, connect the LAN cable directly from the LAN port on the wall to your PC, game console, or other device.

Advantages of free internet in rental properties

Free internet
Living in a rental property that offers free internet allows you to enjoy online access without any extra cost. This can be especially beneficial for students and individuals with fluctuating incomes, as it helps save 4,000 to 5,000 yen per month on internet fees. It’s a great way to reduce living expenses while staying connected.

No contract procedures required
Typically, setting up a fiber optic internet connection involves several steps, including signing a contract and waiting for installation. However, if you’re short on time or find the process cumbersome, choosing a rental property with free internet eliminates these hassles.

No penalty fees
When you sign a contract for a fiber optic internet line, it typically involves a 2- to 3-year commitment. If you decide to cancel outside the renewal period, you may face penalty fees. However, with rental properties offering free internet, the contract is handled by the landlord, meaning there are no long-term commitments or penalties. This makes these properties ideal for individuals who move frequently or have unpredictable schedules, as you can move out whenever you need without worrying about cancellation fees.

Available from day one

The necessary line installation is already completed in rental properties with free internet. So you can start using the internet as soon as you move in. All you need to do is connect your device using a LAN cable or set up a Wi-Fi router, and you’re good to go—no waiting for installation or additional setup required.

On the other hand, if you sign up for an optical fiber connection on your own, it can take anywhere from three weeks to several months for the service to be installed and activated. If having immediate internet access is important to you upon moving in, it’s worth considering free internet as a key factor when choosing a rental property. This way, you can start using the internet right away without a long wait.

Disadvantages of free internet in rental properties

Higher average rent
In rental properties with free internet, the cost of the internet service is often included in the common expenses or management fees. As a result, the overall rent may be higher than the average for similar properties without free internet. While the added convenience of free internet can be a significant benefit, it’s important to weigh this against the potentially higher monthly rent.

If you sign up for an optical fiber connection on your own, the monthly usage fee is typically around 4,000 to 5,000 yen. When considering rental properties with free internet, comparing prices with the average prices in the neighborhood is also important. Assessing the overall cost-effectiveness of each option can help you make the best decision for your budget and needs.

Inability to sign up for another optical fiber line
It is usually not possible to install a separate optical fiber line on your own in rental properties with free internet. Even if you get permission from the management company, some service providers may refuse to install the line for reasons such as not being able to drill holes in the walls or lack of space to run the fiber optic cables. Additionally, switching to another optical fiber service can be difficult or even impossible, even if you’re dissatisfied with the internet speed. This is an important factor to consider.

Slow internet connection
In rental properties with free internet, the connection speed can sometimes be slow, particularly during peak hours at night when many residents are using the internet simultaneously. Since the entire building typically shares a single internet line, the overall speed can be impacted by the number of users online at the same time.

Additionally, depending on the property, the internet speed may be slow enough to interfere with activities like streaming videos. If you plan to play online games, edit large videos, or engage in other high-bandwidth activities, rental properties with free internet may not be ideal.

How to increase the speed of free internet

If you notice slow internet speeds, try these solutions to speed up your internet connection:

Update your computer’s OS to the latest version

If your computer’s operating system (OS) is outdated, it may cause slower processing speeds, which can make the internet connection feel sluggish. To improve performance, check that your OS is updated to the latest version. You can usually do this by going to the computer settings.

Update your browser to the latest version
Even if your operating system is up to date, using an outdated browser can cause slow performance and compatibility issues. To ensure smooth browsing, check if your browser is running the latest version. Updating it can improve speed and functionality, helping to enhance your overall internet experience.

Check the LAN cable standard and replace it if necessary
The speed of your internet connection can be affected by the type of LAN cable you’re using. Different LAN cable categories support different speeds. Make sure your cable is compatible with the maximum speed of your internet plan.

Reduce the number of devices connected to the internet
When multiple devices are connected to the internet simultaneously, it can cause your connection speed to slow down. To improve performance, turn off or disconnect devices that are not currently in use.

Reset the modem and computer connection once
Heat and electricity may accumulate in the connection parts of the modem or other devices. Since heat and electrical buildup can interfere with internet speed, try disconnecting the devices and leaving them to cool down and discharge for about 10 minutes.

Increase the memory capacity of your computer
If your computer has limited available memory (RAM), it can slow down processing speeds, which may also affect your internet connection. Check your available memory through the system settings. If there isn’t enough free memory, try deleting unnecessary files and uninstalling unused apps or games. If performance is still sluggish, consider upgrading your RAM for better overall speed and improved internet browsing experience.

Key considerations before signing up for free internet in rental properties

Check if optical fiber wiring is used
The speed of your internet connection can depend on the type of wiring used. Optical fiber wiring offers the fastest speeds. To determine if your property uses optical fiber, check if there is an optical outlet in the room where you can connect the fiber optic cable.

If you see “Optical” or “Optical Outlet SC” near the plug socket, it indicates that optical fiber wiring is available in your rental property. However, if you choose to use the optical fiber connection, you may need to sign a contract with a separate internet provider. Be sure to confirm with the real estate agency or landlord how much of the internet service is provided for free.

Check if a Wi-Fi router is installed
A Wi-Fi router is a device that distributes an internet connection wirelessly to multiple devices. It receives the internet signal from a modem or optical fiber line and enables devices like smartphones, computers, and tablets to connect to the internet via Wi-Fi (wireless LAN)

Some units may already have a Wi-Fi router installed, while others may require you to provide your own. To avoid any surprises, it’s a good idea to check in advance whether a Wi-Fi router is included with the property or if you need to arrange for one yourself.

Can I sign up for another optical fiber line?

As previously mentioned, if the property already has an established internet setup, you may not be allowed to install an additional connection. If you’re considering a rental property with free internet and want the option to sign up for your own optical fiber service, it’s important to check with the real estate agency in advance.

Have there been any complaints about internet speed?
Before committing to a rental property with free internet, it’s a good idea to check with the real estate agency if there have been any complaints about slow internet speeds in the past. Additionally, since the written communication will be recorded, it’s recommended to inquire via email rather than verbally.

At Village House, we offer rental properties with no deposits, key money, handling fees, or renewal charges. If you’re looking to save on initial costs or renewal fees, feel free to contact us for more information. We’re happy to help you find a cost-effective rental solution!