How to Find Internet in Your Area: Tips from EarthLink
In today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world, having a reliable internet connection is essential. Whether you’re streaming your favorite shows, working from home, or just browsing the web, a solid internet connection is key.
But how do you find internet providers in your area, especially if you live in a more rural location? Look no further! This blog post will guide you through the process of finding internet in your area, and why EarthLink is the top choice for internet in the U.S., covering a whopping 92% of the continental United States.
Content Summary:
- Begin your search online
- Use ISP comparison websites
- Find the right internet connection
- Set your budget
- Get a second opinion
- Contact ISPs for more information
- Bonus Tip
- Conclusion
Begin your search online: “Find internet in my area”
Your first step is to begin an online search using common terms such as:
- ‘Find internet in my area’
- ‘Internet near me’
- ‘Internet providers near me’
- ‘What internet is available at’ my address?’
This will give you a starting point for exploring the various internet service providers (ISPs) available at your address. Be sure to include your zip code or city for more accurate results.
Use ISP comparison websites
Another great way to find internet providers in your area is to utilize ISP comparison websites. These sites gather information on different ISPs, including their plans, pricing, and availability.
By entering your zip code or address, you can see a list of available ISPs near you. This makes it easy to compare providers and choose the best option for your needs.
Finding the right internet connection: Types, speeds, and coverage
When searching for internet providers, it’s essential to consider the type of connection, speed, and coverage that best suit your needs. By focusing on these aspects, you can more easily find the right ISP for your home or business.
Connection types: Know your options
- DSL – Uses telephone lines; widely available but may have slower speeds.
- Cable – Utilizes cable TV infrastructure; faster than DSL but can experience peak-time slowdowns.
- Fiber – Offers fastest speeds and reliability; not as widely available as DSL or cable.
- Satellite – Ideal for rural areas with limited options; can be slower and more expensive.
- Wireless – Perfect for high-density areas or communities near cell towers; easy installation, but comes with data limits.
Speed matters: Choose based on your needs
When selecting a provider, consider the speed based on your internet habits. Refer to the recommended internet speeds guide to determine the ideal plan for your usage. Keep in mind that actual performance may vary due to factors like network congestion, signal strength, and device capabilities.
| Internet Speed | Users per Household | Suggested Internet Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 5-25 Mbps | 1-2 | Basic web browsing, email, social media, streaming music, standard-definition (SD) video streaming (e.g., YouTube, Netflix) |
| 25-50 Mbps | 2-4 | Web browsing, email, social media, streaming music, high-definition (HD) video streaming (e.g., Netflix, Hulu), online gaming, video calls |
| 50-100 Mbps | 4-6 | Multi-device usage, HD video streaming, online gaming, video calls, file sharing, remote work/school |
| 100-300 Mbps | 6-10 | Multi-device usage, 4K video streaming, online gaming, video calls, file sharing, remote work/school, smart home devices |
| 400 Mbps – 1 Gig | 10-20 | Multi-device usage, 4K/8K video streaming, multiple online gamers, video calls, large file sharing, remote work/school, smart home devices |
| 2-5 Gigs | 20+ | Multi-device usage, 8K+ video streaming, VR/AR experiences, multiple online gamers, video calls, large file sharing, remote work/school, smart home devices, high-bandwidth tasks |
Multi-device usage, 8K+ video streaming, VR/AR experiences, multiple online gamers, video calls, large file sharing, remote work/school, smart home devices, high-bandwidth tasks
Check local service maps for coverage
For a more visual approach, use local service maps provided by ISPs to see which providers cover your area. Many ISPs, including EarthLink, offer address searches to check if their services are available in your location.
With EarthLink, we have a number of internet options to fit your needs and budget. Whether you’re interested in fiber, satellite, or wireless home internet, EarthLink gets you there.
Set your budget
When searching for internet providers in your area, it’s essential to consider the cost of the service. Price can be a deciding factor for many, so it’s crucial to find a provider that offers a balance between affordability and quality.
Begin by comparing the prices of various ISPs available in your area. Take note of the monthly fees, installation costs, equipment rentals, and any promotional offers or discounts. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best choice, as lower-priced plans may come with slower speeds, data caps, or less reliable service.
To make the most informed decision, weigh the costs against factors such as speed, reliability, and customer support. By considering price alongside other important aspects, you can find an internet provider that offers the best value for your needs.
Get a second opinion
While you’re researching ISPs, be sure to read customer reviews and ask your neighbors, friends, and family about their experiences with different ISPs.
This can be an excellent way to gauge which internet providers are best suited to meet your needs. With word-of-mouth, you’ll gain insights on the service quality, customer support, and overall satisfaction of internet providers in your area.
Try EarthLink: The largest provider of rural internet in the U.S.
No matter where you live, you’ll be happy to know that EarthLink available in 92% of the continental United States and stands as the largest provider of rural internet in the U.S.
EarthLink offers a variety of internet plans to meet your needs, from basic browsing to high-speed connections for streaming, gaming, and more.
Contact ISPs for more information
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, reach out to the ISPs directly to learn more about their services, plans, and pricing. This will give you the most up-to-date information and help you make an informed decision.
Bonus tip: Don’t forget about business internet providers
If you own or operate a business, it’s essential to find business internet providers in your area that cater to your specific needs.
Use the same strategies outlined above to find ISPs that offer business-class services, such as faster speeds, dedicated support, and reliable connections.
Conclusion
Finding internet in your area doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect ISP for your needs.
And remember, if you’re in a rural area, EarthLink is the largest provider of rural internet in the U.S., covering 92% of the continental United States.
With EarthLink, you can be sure that you’ll have a reliable, high-quality internet connection, no matter where you are.
Ready to end the internet hunt? Call one of our internet experts today or look up your address to see what EarthLink internet is available near you! Get the speed, price, and connection you want.
Call 866-618-0414