Internet Options When Living Rural

Living in a rural area sometimes means that you are limited to certain internet companies. You could also be limited to the type of internet service that you have in your home as some companies might only offer satellite instead of a cable or fiber-optic connection. There are a few options that you can look into so that you can compare the details of each one before determining which would be best for your family.

Satellite

Satellite internet is usually the most common option available if you live in a rural area. It’s an option that usually limits the amount of data that’s available each month unless you add more data until the next period begins. You’ll usually find that the price is more expensive with this option as well and only increases as you add more data each month. Some satellite companies will offer a higher data package if you know that you might run out before the end of the month, but it’s usually at the highest monthly payment as well. One thing to keep in mind is that satellite is usually available in areas where you might not think that you could get internet service.

DSL

Another option that you have for the internet is DSL. This usually offers a wider area of coverage and is typically a bit more affordable. However, you’ll still see slower speeds compared to cable or fiber-optic internet because of the connection. A benefit is that you usually aren’t capped on the data that you have to use each month, which means that it can be a better option than satellite.

Cable

If possible, you want to try to find an internet company that offers cable. If you live in a rural area, you might pay a little more than what people pay who live in an urban setting, but you’re going to have faster speeds and higher data limits compared to using satellite internet.

Wireless

This is a fixed option that involves an antenna. You usually won’t have high internet speeds and likely won’t have a lot of data available, but if you live in a rural area with no other options, then this might be the only thing that you have to choose from until other companies decide to branch out to where you live. It’s also a bit less expensive than satellite internet.

Hotspots

If you don’t need an internet connection all the time, then consider a hotspot. If you have a phone plan, then you can usually add a hotspot so that you can connect other devices to the internet for at least a short period of time. This is beneficial if you only need to send emails or if you need to connect with someone to send a message. If a hotspot is included in your phone plan, then you usually won’t need to pay a separate bill, which means that you would have the best of both services in one. Keep in mind that you might have a data cap on your hotspot before the speed begins to slow down.

Companies

A popular company for satellite internet is Viasat. The maximum download speeds are a bit higher than the competition, and the prices are a little lower. Plans average around 100 Mbps and 300 GB. Keep in mind that the company tends to increase prices after about three months. CenturyLink is an option for DSL and uses phones lines that are already in place. If phone lines need to be installed, then you might have to pay additional fees. Suddenlink and Xfinity are options for cable internet service providers. If you need a hotspot, then consider Verizon as you’ll get exceptional coverage and lower prices.