The bottom line
oxio is best if
- ✓ Consumers who want to support a truly independent company
- ✓ Those who prefer unparalleled pricing transparency
- ✓ Users who want a modern, digital-first experience
- ✓ Canadians looking for a provider outside the Big Telecom umbrella
Start.ca is best if
- • Customers who are comfortable staying within the Telus ecosystem
- • Those who prefer traditional phone-based support
- • Users in Southwestern Ontario who value the local brand legacy
- • Households already bundled with other Telus/Koodo services
★Why oxio is the independent choice
For a long time, Start.ca was the gold standard for independent ISPs in Ontario. Their acquisition by Telus changed the landscape. If your goal in switching providers is to leave the 'Big Three' (Rogers, Bell, Telus), moving to Start.ca no longer achieves that.
oxio captures the spirit of what Start.ca used to represent: a genuine alternative. oxio is building a sustainable, independent business that puts people before aggressive growth targets. With oxio, you get the friendly service and fair pricing you want, without your monthly payments ultimately going to a telecom giant.
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Start.ca built a fantastic reputation as a friendly, independent ISP in London, Ontario. However, in February 2023, Start.ca was acquired by Telus. While it retains its name and local feel, it is now part of the Big Telecom ecosystem. oxio remains 100% independent, offering a true alternative to the major carriers.
| Topic | oxio | Start |
|---|---|---|
| Company ownership | oxio is an independent provider, operating separately from the big telecom giants. They chart their own course and prioritize transparency. | Start.ca was acquired by Telus in 2023. It now operates as a subsidiary brand, similar to how Koodo is owned by Telus. |
| Pricing approach | oxio emphasises transparent, consistent pricing. They break down costs to show exactly where every dollar goes. | Start.ca generally offers fair pricing, but as a Telus brand, their strategies may align more with corporate retention goals over time. |
| Customer service | oxio is fully online-first: digital account management, chat-based support, no phone queues. Efficient for tech-comfortable users. | Start.ca maintains its knowledgeable phone support team, which has always been its strongest selling point. |
| Coverage area | oxio serves Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, and other provinces across Canada. | Start.ca primarily serves Ontario, though its acquisition by Telus may eventually integrate it into broader networks. |
| User experience | oxio's interface is modern and minimalist. Easy online signup, clean account management, designed for mainstream users. | Start.ca offers a functional traditional ISP experience. It feels dependable but less modern than oxio's platform. |
| Commitment | No contracts, ever. Service is month-to-month, and cancellation is painless. | Start.ca generally offers contract-free service, but verify specific terms as offers can change under new ownership. |
Before you switch checklist
- Check if your current contract has an end date or cancellation fee
- Note when your current billing cycle ends
- Confirm oxio availability at your address
- Review the total monthly cost including taxes and fees
- Understand equipment requirements (modem, router)
- Plan for potential service gap during transition
Referral Code
RRWSBHP
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last reviewed: January 2026