Finding reliable, high-speed internet in rural areas can feel like a challenge. But good news! There are several options to keep you connected, even in the most remote locations. Below, we’ll break down the three best internet options for rural areas, making it easier for you to decide which one fits your household’s needs.

Wireless Home Internet for Rural Areas

What is it?

Wireless home internet connects to nearby cell towers to deliver internet service directly to your home. It skips the need for wired connections, using the strongest available 4G LTE or 5G signal instead.

Why choose wireless home internet?

• Speed without the hassle: You’re always connected to the fastest speed available with no need to choose a specific internet speed plan.
• Easy setup: No technicians, wires, or digging required. Simply set it up and get online.
• Reliability: A great alternative to satellite, providing faster speeds and less lag.

Wireless Home Internet Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-speed connection suitable for streaming, gaming, and working from home.
• Easy to install without the need for extensive wiring.
• Available in many areas where traditional broadband access might be limited.

Cons:

• Speeds and reliability may vary depending on network congestion and distance to cell towers.
• Data caps may apply, leading to additional costs for heavy users.

Consider EarthLink Wireless Home Internet for Remote Living

EarthLink’s Wireless Home Internet brings dependable, high-speed service to rural households by leveraging nearby cellular towers. If you’re in an area with strong 4G LTE coverage, EarthLink is an excellent option for seamless browsing, streaming, and more.

Satellite Internet for Rural Areas

What is it?

Satellite internet uses a dish installed on (or near) your home to connect to a satellite orbiting Earth. It ensures coverage even in the most remote areas.

Why choose satellite internet?

• Ubiquitous coverage: Available across 99% of the U.S., making it ideal for areas with limited access to other options.
• Decent speeds: Faster than DSL in most locations, with typical download speeds up to 100 Mbps.
• Reliable connectivity: Great fallback for areas with no cellular or DSL coverage.

Satellite Internet Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Accessible in extremely remote locations, making it ideal for rural areas where other options may not be available.
• Installation and equipment make it a viable choice when traditional broadband isn’t an option.

Cons:

• Higher latency can impact activities like gaming and video conferencing.
• Generally more expensive than other options and may have stricter data limits.

What to consider?

While installation requires professional help and equipment can be costly, many providers offer leasing options. Satellite internet often comes with longer contracts, so it might not be the best option if you’re planning to move soon.

Explore EarthLink Satellite Internet for Maximum Coverage

EarthLink Satellite Internet delivers nearly universal access to even the most remote corners of the U.S. It’s a dependable option for rural households needing consistent connectivity when other services are unavailable.

DSL Internet for Rural Areas

What is it?

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) internet uses your existing phone line to deliver a reliable wired connection, even in rural communities.

Why choose DSL internet?

• No shared bandwidth: Since DSL uses a dedicated line, you won’t experience the network slowdowns common with cable internet.
• Reliable service: Available in 90% of the U.S., DSL is a steady option that’s less prone to interruptions.
• Affordable pricing: Generally moderate in cost, making it a budget-friendly option.

DSL Internet Pros and Cons

Pros:

Affordable and reliable for basic internet needs such as browsing and checking email.

Widely available in both urban and rural areas with existing phone lines.

Cons:

Speeds are slower compared to wireless and fiber options, especially for large households or heavy internet usage.

Performance may decrease the farther you are from the provider’s central office.

What to keep in mind?

While widely available, DSL tends to offer slower speeds than satellite or wireless home internet.

Each option has distinct advantages and drawbacks, so the best choice ultimately depends on your location, usage needs, and budget. For personalized assistance in selecting the right internet plan, reach out to EarthLink’sEarthLink’s internet experts today at 866-618-0264.}}}