Choosing an internet provider, particularly when your options may be more limited because of location, isn’t always straightforward. Below, we’ve listed a few things you should keep in mind when picking a rural internet provider.
Check for Availability
Finding providers that serve your area will be one of the biggest challenges to finding the right rural internet provider for you. We recommend asking neighbors and local friends and family what they use and searching provider websites to see if they serve your home. It may also be wise to target providers that specifically focus on rural communities or greater internet access for all.
Determine Your Desired Speed
Internet speed options can be more limited with rural internet providers, as some plan options may not be available in your area, and satellite internet, a common rural internet connection type, can deliver limited speeds. We recommend using tools like the FCC’s home broadband speed guide to help determine your best home internet speed and trying to find plans that most closely align with those speeds.
Consider Connection Type
Certain internet connection types are more common in rural areas, including satellite and fixed wireless plans. Each has its own set of pros and cons, which we’ll go over below, but knowing a bit about the type of internet you’re committing to is vital to anticipate what service might be like.
Solidify Your Budget
Internet plans can quickly get expensive, especially if your options are more limited in rural areas. We recommend researching providers that serve you and how much their plans cost. From there, you can continue searching, better determine your budget and what plan may work best for you.
Keep an Eye Out for Data Caps and Other Fine Print
On paper, one provider’s plan may look better, but things like data caps, contract requirements, price increases after a promo period and equipment fees may make the option less appealing. Be sure to look into each of these before committing.
Read Reviews
Online reviews aren’t everything, but they can help you get a better sense of how companies handle issues that arise. We recommend looking through reviews and specifically focusing on those from people who may live near you. If a company has abysmal reviews and doesn’t seem to take the time to address them with customers, it can be a red flag.
