Best Fiber Internet Providers
Compare All Fiber Internet Providers
When selecting an Internet Provider for your home, one of the first options that you should check for is a Fiber connection. These Internet Connections utilize fiber optic cable that can deliver a much larger amount of data per second, when compared to traditional copper, DSL, and cable connections. These connections are generally classified as 1Gbps speeds meaning equal to or surpassing 1000Mbps, which is more than enough to cover even the most demanding users data needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fiber Internet
What Is Fiber Internet?
Fiber internet connects to the internet by transmitting light pulses through a transparent glass fiber, which are about the same size as a human hair. An optical transmitter converts a light signal into an optical signal so that it is able to travel down the optic fiber. Optic fibers are routed underground and contain optical receivers that transmit the information to your computer.
Who Is The Largest Fiber Provider?
Verizon Fios is the largest fiber optic provider in the U.S. Because of its limited availability, Verizon Fios is able to reach slightly over 32 million customers in 10 states.
How Fast Is Fiber Internet?
Fiber optic is the fastest internet option but unfortunately its availability is limited across the U.S. If you have fiber optic available to you, you would be able to purchase speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
How Much Does "Fiber" Internet Cost?
Depending on what fiber tier you select, plans start at around $50 and go up to $150 per month. Because you are buying an upgraded service, many providers include benefits such as free installation or free premium television channels for a year.
Why Should I Get Fiber Internet?
Fiber is the fastest option compared to any broadband service if it available in your area. You also get more reliable and constant internet connection. The fast speeds can be attributed to the fact that fiber optic lines are dedicated lines, meaning your speed will not be slowed by the amount of users.
Using the same infrastructure as cable television, cable internet access has quickly grown in popularity among ISPs and consumers alike. Generally offering faster speeds than a DSL line, it's often the first choice when looking to use the internet for things such as streaming, gaming, or just visiting some of your favorite sites.
Pros
- Increased download speeds
- Widely available
Cons
- Shared bandwidth
- Reduced upload speeds
With the fastest speeds available through fiber, it's the perfect choice for the modern user. Through fiber internet, fiber-optic lines carry the signal back and forth from your home or business at near instantaneous speeds. It's one of the newest technologies on the market and demand is growing faster and faster.
Pros
- Lightning fast download speeds
- Highest upload speeds
Cons
- Higher cost
- Lower Availability
A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a method of connecting to the internet through an existing telephone line. Faster and more reliable than dial-up, DSL has been the choice for most Americans ever since it gained traction in the late 1990's. Seeing as all that's needed is a telephone line, most households and businesses will have some form of DSL to choose from.
Pros
- Available to most addresses
- Highly reliable connection
- Affordability
Cons
- Reduced upload speeds
- Slower than other lines
Really meant for homes or businesses without grounded lines available, satellite internet access can be found almost anywhere. Using a geostationary satellite to connect you with the wider world online, all that is needed is a clear line of site to the southern sky and you'll have no problem connecting to the web.
Pros
- Available almost anywhere
- Multiple plans available
Cons
- Lag when gaming
- VPN incompatible
- Data restrictions
Fixed wireless is a form of internet that uses directional radio antennas to connect to your home or business. Great for areas that don't have access to cable, DSL, or fiber, it allows you to have internet access without the often prohibitory price tag that getting those lines laid would cost.
Pros
- Fast download speeds
- No lines required
Cons
- Weather affected
- Antenna required