What is the fastest available internet in my area?
The fastest accessible internet service in your area depends on where you live. Fiber internet from providers like Google Fiber, CenturyLink, AT&T, Frontier, and Verizon is the fastest and best internet connection if it’s available in your area.
More fiber plans are now available at speeds up to 10,000 Mbps, although most commonly top out at 1,000 Mbps, which is more than enough speed for the vast majority of households. Fiber internet also supports symmetrical upload and download speeds—great for remote workers who need to upload large files to the corporate server, Twitch livestreamers, or households where multiple people are on video conferences at the same time.
Cable internet from providers like Xfinity, Sparklight, and Spectrum is the most widespread fast connection type. Cable internet plans reach up to 1,200 Mbps, but you may see speeds limited to only 200–500 Mbps in some areas. However, cable internet speeds are expected to reach 10,000 Mbps in the coming years.
DSL is essentially a step up from dial-up, offering internet speeds up to 140 Mbps. It’s the ideal connection if you need only the baseline broadband speed (and if the price is cheap), or if fiber and cable internet aren’t available where you live.
Satellite internet can reach speeds up to 100 Mbps, but it’s expensive and offers low data caps. But satellite internet might be your fastest option if you live in a rural area.