Rural internet options and providers

Wondering how to get high-speed internet in rural areas?

If you live in a rural area, it can be a challenge to get access to a reliable, high-speed internet network. Below, we take a look at a number of rural internet options, to help you consider which one may be right for you.

Types of rural internet options

Depending on the population and location of your community, you may have a number of providers to choose from, or there may only be one or two. Each type of internet listed below uses a different technology to deliver your service. The specific choices available to you will vary.

DSL

DSL uses a different frequency of phone lines to deliver "always-on" or broadband internet. Speeds usually range from 768 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps (Megabits per second), but in some areas can be even faster.

The pros of DSL include consistent service, low cost, and decent speeds. The cons include relatively inconsistent speeds and a lack of access in some areas.

Satellite internet

Satellite internet uses a satellite link to transmit your internet traffic, and is available in every rural area.

Its benefits include nationwide availability and faster speeds than DSL and dialup. However, it has very high latency (ping) and can be relatively expensive, with low data caps usually imposed on customers.

Fixed wireless 

Fixed wireless, or antenna-based internet, uses a special router that receives mobile internet (3G or 4G) signals, and creates a home wireless network that you can connect your devices to.

Its benefits include a lower cost compared to satellite, plus widespread availability and good overall speeds. However, as with any wireless signal, the connection is not 100% consistent, and it is often more expensive than other rural internet options.

Mobile internet

Mobile internet uses a “hotspot" to deliver internet access via a mobile network through a mobile carrier. Mobile internet has benefits like high speeds, relatively consistent connections, and reasonably good coverage. However, it can be expensive and often comes with strict data caps.

What to look for in a rural internet provider

Wondering what you should look for in your rural internet provider? Here are a few things to consider as you consider possible options in your rural area.

Availability

Is the network reliable and available in your area? You'll want a consistent, highly available and reliable rural internet network. Check online ratings and reviews to see how each provider in your area stacks up.

Rural internet in the future

As time goes on, more rural Americans are getting access to high-speed internet through fiber internet, fixed wireless and 5G. Each year brings improved access in rural communities across the country.

Common questions about rural internet service

Check out the questions and answers below to learn more about rural high-speed internet.

Check for CenturyLink high-speed internet in your area

At CenturyLink, we do our best to provide high-speed internet in rural areas. Visit our site and enter your address to see if our high-speed internet is available near you!