How to get internet in rural areas?

To access high-speed internet in rural areas you can use Fixed Wireless, Mobile Broadband, Satellite, and even DSL internet connections. Cable broadband is available in very select rural neighborhoods from Suddenlink by Altice.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet?

Internet is a vast network that connects digital devices around the world. Digital data is transferred from one point to another via standard networking protocols and equipment. On the other hand Wi-Fi is the technology that allows internet enabled devices to interface with the internet. You can think of internet as a cloud while Wi-Fi is the tech that connects you to that cloud via radio signals.

What does latency mean?

Latency is the delay that occurs between sending data from your device, and receiving a response from the destination server.

How can I improve my rural internet speed?

The best way you can improve your rural internet speed is by signing up for a mobile broadband plan if you are in a good location to catch a strong signal. If you are lucky you may just be covered by the latest 5G network from AT&T and T-Mobile.

Aside from DSL, satellite, and fixed-wireless internet, is there any other way to get rural broadband?

Aside from these options, you can get high-speed internet via mobile broadband in rural areas.

Which rural internet option is best for gaming?

For gaming, the best type of rural internet would be high-speed DSL.

What is the best internet service for rural areas in the US?

DSL and Mobile Broadband are the most available rural internet services that are also cheaper. Satellite internet is available everywhere but it is pricey. Whereas fixed wireless is not yet available as widely.

What is the best Wi-Fi for rural areas?

CenturyLink plans are among the best Wi-Fi options in rural areas. High-speed DSL plans from CenturyLink come with the Price for Life Guarantee.

What is rural 4G Internet?

Rural 4G internet is the term used to refer to mobile broadband internet offered by leading service providers like AT&T via 4G or 4G LTE technologies.

How many satellite internet providers are there?

The top two satellite internet providers in the US are HughesNet and Viasat.

How much of the rural US has access to high-speed internet?

According to the Office of Advocacy 2019 report, in 2017 high speed internet was available to about 93.5% of US population via fixed terrestrial tech, and this included about 73.6% of rural areas.

Find the best Internet Options for Rural Areas

Q: Is satellite internet any good?

Satellite internet is infamous for latency. But, with HughesNet Gen5 the latency level is well under control and you can play light online games with ease.

Q: Is fixed wireless internet better than satellite?

Fixed wireless is relatively cheaper and offers faster speed with lower latency compared to satellite internet. Plus the service gives a more generous data allowance too. Rural internet providers like Rise Broadband even offer unlimited rural internet options.

Q: Why is it difficult to get the internet in rural areas?

Lower demand for ultra fast internet and lack of infrastructure are two of the biggest reasons why rural internet options remain limited.

Rural Internet Providers	Service Features
	Reliable DSL plans Available across 18 states Unlimited data	View Plans
	Satellite internet Wide availability Wi-Fi 6	View Plans
	High-speed satellite internet Built-in Wi-Fi Unlimited data	View Plans

Rural Internet Types

Internet access in rural areas has been a matter of concern for some time now. However, recent developments in broadband have made it possible for rural users to find options nearby.

If you are looking for a speedy internet connection, here are some good rural options to explore:

High-speed DSL
Satellite
Fixed Wireless
Mobile Broadband

Top DSL Internet Options in Rural Areas

Windstream 100

$50/mo.*

For 36 months with AutoPay

Download speeds up to 100 Mbps
Unlimited data

*Price includes a $5.00/mo. discount with AutoPay, option to disable at the next step. Prices may change after the promotional period ends. Taxes & fees extra.

View Plans

Top Satellite Internet Options in Rural Areas

When it comes to accessibility, Hughesnet has state-of-the-art internet solutions and cutting-edge technology. It gives users a multi-path connection with lower latency and more reliability. Similarly, we have Viasat with considerable orbiting satellites – providing seamless connectivity in rural regions.

Provider	Download speeds up to	Starting price
	Up to 100 Mbps¹	Starting at $49.99/mo*	View Plans
	Up to 150 Mbps²	Call for Pricing*	View Plans

1. Monthly Fee reflects the applied $5 savings for ACH enrollment. Enroll before the 2nd billing cycle for continued savings.
Service plan availability varies based on geographical area. 24-month commitment required.
*Save $25 per month for 12 months. After 12 months, plans revert to the standard monthly fee. New subscribers only. Limited-time offer. Other terms may apply.
2. Speeds are "up to," are not guaranteed and will vary.

Rural Internet Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is it difficult to get the internet in rural areas?

It costs service providers more to put up infrastructure in rural areas where housing is separated by greater distances. Lack of availability results in higher costs for the user and is often not the top priority on the budget.

How can I save on rural internet?

Estimate how much speed and data your home usage requires. Compare available rural internet plans to pick a suitable one, that offers the most value. Additionally, you can also look for promotional deals. To check out the latest internet deals, call 855-349-9328.

Is satellite internet any good?

Satellite internet comes with both pros and cons. However, service providers like Hughesnet and Viasat have worked to reduce the latency level with value-packed plans. Call 855-349-9328 to check satellite internet offers in your area.

Is fixed wireless internet better than satellite?

Fixed wireless internet offers faster speeds with lower latency compared to satellite internet.

Are there any data caps on rural internet?

Depending on the plan you subscribe to, there may or may not be data limits. Evaluate your household internet usage, and opt for a provider and/or plan that meets your needs the best.

Top Rural Internet Providers

Best Rural Internet Options