Home  /  Telecommunications  /  5 popular Internet service providers

5 popular Internet service providers

5 popular Internet service providers

Before you can compare affordable Internet plans, you must understand the different types of home Internet services available in the market. You have the option to choose from a Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), cable connection, satellite, and fiber-optic services. Each connection will have varying speeds depending on the service and service provider. While DSL connection may not offer super high speeds, a fiber optic service can be too expensive for a residential connection.

Consider the following points before subscribing to an Internet connection:

  • Speed is of paramount importance so chose a connection that offers high-speed broadband plans.
  • Data cap limits can be confusing, so it is better for you to opt for an unlimited connection.
  • Check to see if there are any additional costs you might incur for installation of the modem or router.
  • Bundled services are always beneficial as you get cable, phone, and Internet in one connection.
  • There is no need to pay for additional services like a dedicated firewall or antivirus provided by the service.
  • Your service provider must have an impressive service coverage in your area so choose a local provider.

Top 5 high-speed internet providers

AT&T
One of the popular names in the telecommunications industry, AT&T is one of the top 5 Internet providers for best overall service. The service offers both DSL and fiber optic connection to provide a high-speed connection. Internet speeds vary in the range of 50 Mbps to 1000 Mbps for some of its premium fiber optic connections. If you have access to AT&T in your local area or community, you must consider the service to enjoy a high-speed connection. One of the key highlights of AT&T is customer support. In terms of pertinent factors like performance reliability, cost, billing, and communication, AT&T top the list of some of the best high-speed Internet providers.

FIOS by Verizon
When it comes to fiber optic Internet, FIOS by Verizon is a reliable name and considered among the best high-speed Internet providers in the market. The service is available in only nine states but provides quality internet to over thirty-three million customers within its coverage area. Popular plans for FIOS internet services start at $39.99/month going upwards of $94.99/month for the more premium plans. The price will also vary depending on the type of bundle you choose including support for multiple devices.

HughesNet
FIOS may be well known for providing premium fiber optic services but HughesNet is one of the best high-speed Internet providers for satellite services. HughesNet has been providing satellite Internet connections and plans that offer a decent 25 Mbps connection. Note that the high speed will dip after you cross the fair usage data cap limit so choose your plans wisely. One of the popular plans offered by HughesNet is the Gen5 satellite Internet priced at around $49.99/motnh. You also have the option to upgrade or downgrade plans at your convenience making HughesNet one of the popular satellite services in comparison to premium alternatives available in the market.

Frontier
If you can’t afford a satellite or fiber optic connection, you can always opt for Frontier Internet services. It offers affordable DSL line Internet connection with plans that start at just $20/month. The service has some special offers that include a yearlong subscription to Amazon Prime, a free Wi-Fi router, and free installation of the service. Frontier also offers bundle plans with affordable combinations of voice and Internet plans starting at $42/month.

Spectrum
Spectrum is one of the best cable Internet service and one of the alternatives you can consider among the best high-speed Internet providers. It is one of the services that provide unlimited data, high speeds, and also a $500 contract buyout option. Your basic Internet plans start at around $44.99/month with speeds that go up to 100 Mbps. Charter Spectrum bundle plans allow you to enjoy the combination of high-speed Internet and television services with prices starting at $79.98/month.