Networking

Fort Worth is known as the city; “where the west begins.” However, it’s no longer a small Texas town of the Old West — there are nearly one million residents living in Fort Worth. While you can still find remnants of its past, such as the Log Cabin Village, Fort Worth has become a modern and vibrant city with high-speed internet available throughout.If you’re moving to Fort Worth, Texas or you’re ready to comparison shop the best local internet providers, you may find this review helpful. We’ve analyzed several of the top Fort Worth internet providers to give you guidance on which broadband service plans may work best for you.

The three best internet providers in Fort Worth

AT&T – Best for Fastest Internet SpeedsFrontier – Best for PriceSpectrum – Best for No Commitments

AT&TFrontierSpectrumDefining traitFastest Internet SpeedsBest PriceBest for No CommitmentsConnection typeFiberDSLDSLDownload speeds (Mbps)100 Mbps300 Mbps1000 Mbps6 Mbps25 Mbps115 Mbps200 MbpsPrices starting at$50 per month$27.99 per month$49.99 per monthContract length12 months24 monthsNoneData cap1 TB or unlimitedNoneNone

Fastest internet speeds

Shutterstock

If your household has several family members who stream videos, shop online and web chat at once, high-speed internet is essential. Without it, your family can experience slow page loads and lag times when streaming music or movies. Fortunately, AT&T offers fiber optic internet service in Fort Worth so that you can take advantage of the fastest speeds in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.Price: Fort Worth AT&T internet prices start at $50 per month for 100 or 300 Mbps download speeds. The fastest tier comes in at $70 per month.Speed and Data: AT&T Fiber in Fort Worth is available at three speeds: 100 or 300 Mbps with a data limit of 1 TB, or 1000 Mbps download speeds with no data cap.Plans/Packages: Fort Worth residents also have the option to bundle fiber optic internet and TV for $79.99 per month the first year, although that price jumps to $121 per month the second year.Contract Options: AT&T internet in Fort Worth requires a minimum 12-month service agreement for internet service. If you add TV to the bundle, the TV portion of the agreement comes with a longer, two-year agreement.

Best internet price

Shutterstock

Frontier Communications makes our list of the best Fort Worth internet providers for its low prices. Besides high-speed internet, the company provides satellite television through Direct TV and phone services. Frontier claims its internet speeds are faster than those of cable internet providers because you won’t have to share the broadband connection with neighbors — Frontier directly wires internet to your home.Price: Internet prices from Frontier are the lowest in our Fort Worth internet review. Plans start at $27.99 per month for 6 Mbps download speeds, which is adequate for a small number of connected devices and light internet use. Upgrade to 25 Mbps for $34.99 or up to 115 Mbps starting at $44.99 per month.Speed and Data: Frontier offers three speed options in Fort Worth: 6, 25, or 115 Mbps. As an added bonus, Frontier does not cap or throttle the data on any of its internet plans.Plans/Packages: Frontier currently offers three internet bundles to Fort Worth residents. The first is a Double Play bundle for $37.99 per month, which includes internet and digital phone with unlimited nationwide calls. The Triple Play bundle adds over 250 Direct TV channels for $105.99 per month. For even more channels (over 340), you can choose the Triple Play bundle for $122.99.Contract Options: Accessing Frontier’s low rates requires a 24-month commitment.

Best for no commitments

Shutterstock

Spectrum may be the best choice if you prefer not to fuss with the fine print. This Fort Worth internet provider does not lock you into a long-term contract to access their internet services. You also won’t be limited by data caps or speed throttling on your internet plan.Price: Spectrum offers 200 Mbps speeds for $49.99 per month to Fort Worth area residents. Spectrum also offers free access to hotspots nationwide so you can connect your phone, tablet, or other devices to the network wherever you may be.Speed and Data: Speeds vary according to zip code, but expect to surf somewhere between 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps.Plans/Packages: Besides internet service, you can add Spectrum TV for live streaming of your favorite channels. Download the Spectrum TV app to take advantage of your TV subscription anywhere.Contract Options: Spectrum won’t lock you into a contract, so you can enjoy your service for as long as you need. Internet prices are guaranteed for one year but are subject to increase after the introductory 12-month period.

How we found the best internet providers in Fort Worth

We analyzed a dozen companies to find the best internet providers in Fort Worth. Some of the key features we looked for include:Coverage: The winners in our Fort Worth internet review offered good coverage for the area. We wanted to ensure the plans reviewed are available to as many readers as possible.Value. We reviewed pricing and features of many Fort Worth internet providers to compare speeds, data caps, packages available, and contract lengths to decide on which internet providers in Fort Worth provide area customers the best value.Customer Satisfaction. Customer experience is a significant factor in determining the winners. We reviewed satisfaction ratings from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) and J.D. Power. The bulk of the internet service providers don’t score well in customer satisfaction, so analyzing each internet provider individually and comparing them to industry averages provides a better picture of which broadband companies are most responsive to customer service issues.

Is 6 Mbps enough for gaming?

If you’re the only connected device to your broadband router, 6 Mbps may be just enough to stream a high-definition game or video. To be safe, you may want to upgrade to 25 Mbps or higher so you avoid lag time, especially if you’d like to connect more than one device.

How fast is internet service in Fort Worth?

Depending on the neighborhood, you’ll have access to speeds ranging between 6 Mbps to 1000 Mbps.

What is a data cap?

Many internet providers limit how much bandwidth you use to download large files, stream movies, listen to music, or video chat. Data cap limits are usually included in the fine print. Some internet providers may not have a data cap, but may slow down or throttle your internet speed to limit how much data you’re using. More

You are in the middle of your favorite streaming program when you unexpectedly experience the much dreaded “spinning wheel.” You thought you’d chosen the fastest internet speeds. So why is this happening? There are actually two separate speeds you may not have considered: download speed and upload speed. To help you understand the difference between the two speeds, we’ve created a primer on both types of speed, why they matter, and what you can do to optimize them for the best internet experience.

What’s the difference between download and upload speed?

To understand the difference between download and upload speeds, you first have to take a look at how internet speed is measured. It’s all about how fast data can transfer to or from your computer, which measures in megabits of data that can be transferred per second (Mbps). The download speed refers to how fast the data can be transferred from the internet to your computer, while the upload speed refers to how fast the data can transfer from your computer to the internet.  

Why does download speed matter?

For most people, the bulk of their internet usage relies on fast download speeds. The download speed affects everything from loading web pages and images to listening to music, downloading files, and streaming video. Streaming activities, especially, require a fast download speed. Without it, you might experience a lot of buffering, images that won’t download, or web pages that are slow to load. 

Why does upload speed matter?

The majority of us upload data to the internet much less frequently, but some activities do require you to send data in the opposite direction.Sending emails, uploading YouTube content, and enjoying a live video call with a friend are all examples of activities that require a good upload speed.

How to optimize for ideal download/upload speed

If you’re looking for ways to optimize your internet speeds, there are a few things that you can do to make sure you’re getting the best experience possible.Run an internet speed test: Before you can go about fixing your connection, you need to know what you’re working against. Run a free internet speed test to start to get a sense of where your download and upload speeds are. Then, once you’ve completed some of the suggestions below, run it again to track the change.Reset your router: Routers should be reset every so often to refresh your internet connection. To do this, it’s as simple as turning the router off, waiting 30 seconds, and turning it back on again. Know that it won’t drastically change your internet speed, but it will help a bit.Clear your cache: As you visit websites, your browser collects information about you and your browsing habits in the form of cookies. Marketers use this information to produce ads that are relevant to your interests. However, when your browser stores too many of these cookies, your internet can get sluggish. You’ll need to clear your cache in order to get rid of them. Try a different internet service provider (ISP): If slow internet has really got you down, one thing that you can do is try to negotiate with your current ISP to see if they can move you to an upgraded plan or to switch service providers entirely. You may even be able to save a little money if you move to a new company. More

Wide Open West, or WOW!, offers internet service in nine states throughout the Southern and Midwestern U.S. This internet provider features packages with extensive bandwidth at lower-than-average rates. However, internet users will need to sign up for 24-month contracts to get the best rates from WOW!. And the company’s limited availability means that many people will have to look elsewhere for their internet needs.Pros:High speeds at affordable pricesOffers bundled packagesCons:Limited availability Best prices require long contractsWOW! Internet Plans and PricesPlanPriceDownload/Upload SpeedsConnection TypeBest forInternet 100$24.99 per monthUp to 100MbpsCableMultitaskersInternet 200$34.99 per monthUp to 200MbpsCableBinge-watchersInternet 500$44.99per monthUp to 500MbpsCableHouse of MultitaskersInternet 1 Gig$64.99per monthUp to 1,000MbpsFiberMega UsersData effective 3/18/2020Estimated SpeedsAll of the internet plans WOW! Their customers are based on cable connections — except the Internet 1 Gig plan, which is based on a fiber connection. Even the lowest plan WOW! offers at “up to 100Mbps” will be enough for many users, and because the plans are affordable, people who would normally select the most economical option might be interested in a higher package. However, each plan lists the maximum speed available and does not necessarily reflect the actual speed a client will receive, so it is advised to double-check which speeds are available in people’s locations. All plans come with no data cap. Pricing

As with most internet providers, the plans WOW! offers differ by location. But regardless of the location, if WOW! is available, they probably offer one of the best rates in the area. These rates, however, come with strings attached. For internet users to get the best price, they will need to sign up for a 24-month contract and use auto-pay as their billing option. After the contract ends, the plan’s monthly price goes up — so make sure to keep track of the end date to reevaluate the value of the service under the new rate. Most of the plans go up about $20 after the contract runs out.

Whom is each plan best for?

Internet 100: Best for a small family with 1-3 devicesInternet 200:  Best for a small family with 1-5 devicesInternet 500:  Best for medium to large families with 1-10 devicesInternet 1 Gig: Large families of frequent internet users with 10+ devices

How Fast is WOW! Internet?

The latest FCC report on internet access services, which collects internet usage data from 2017, found that only 37.5% of the internet connections in the U.S. were “at least 100Mbps.” WOW! internet plans begin with 100Mbps and rise fast from there. This provider caters to internet users who require significant bandwidth from their internet connection. And now, with the fiber connection that WOW! has made available to their customers, even those with substantial internet needs will be satisfied by the company’s offerings. 

Where is WOW! Internet Available?

As an internet provider, WOW! It is only located in the Southern and Midwestern U.S., making its offerings rather limited. . The company offers internet plans in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and within those states, the plans are only available in select areas, rather than statewide. To find out which WOW! covers areas within the states, head over to the company website and select the applicable state and region below it. 

Other Factors to ConsiderWhen signing up for a new internet plan, WOW! gives their customers flexibility on what equipment will be used. Customers can use their own modem or lease one from WOW! for $10 per month. The modem WOW! provides can receive up to “1 Gig Internet” service. WOW! claims to offer plans that feature unlimited internet with no data cap. Frequent internet users who are worried about going over the monthly data limit and having their connection throttled will appreciate the lack of a data cap. But in the fine print, WOW! specifies that they reserve the right to “impose additional charges upon residential customers that use excessive bandwidth, which WOW! considers being bandwidth that is inconsistent with residential use.”If an internet user wants to sign up for a WOW! plan without a contract, they don’t need to worry about any early termination fee. But WOW! does charge an early termination fee if a customer signs on to a contract and then terminates that contract before the term limit is finished. This fee will be determined based on the services or equipment you purchased and the agreed-upon minimum length. As WOW! states in its “Minimum Term Plan document, “for the 12-month service plan, the ETF is $165 and will be reduced by $15 for each complete month during the Minimum Term Plan that you maintain and timely pay for all of the Minimum Term Plan services and other services you receive from WOW!. The ETF for the 24-month plan is $345 and will be reduced by $15 for each complete month”.WOW! also offers bundled services that vary widely by location. Depending on where the customer lives, WOW! will have bundles that include internet and cable TV and home phone services. Once again, because these bundles are heavily localized, people should check what is available in their area. More

In the United States, gaming is a $35.5 billion industry, with an estimated 211 million people playing online games — which adds up to 67% of the population. 

In addition to the general allure of gameplay and competition, online gaming platforms also establish connections between people, allowing gamers to strike up conversations with friends or complete strangers and to build what can sometimes turn out to be long-lasting relationships. However, the ability to easily connect socially through a simple internet connection also means there’s a platform for negative social interactions, leading to instances of online harassment.  A 2019 study by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) revealed 74% of gamers had experienced some form of online harassment, and 65% of people playing games online have experienced “severe” online harassment, which is defined as including sustained harassment, physical threats and even stalking.What does online harassment look like?Online harassment can include a variety of damaging behaviors such as threats, hateful messages, defamation, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Typically, the end goal of the harasser is to drive the victim off of the gaming platform or to harm them in some way through a series of threats, by broadcasting personal information online (also known as doxxing), or otherwise threatening their personal safety — not just virtually, but in real life.According to the ADL study, 29% of online gamers reported being victims of doxxing. This form of online harassment entails divulging personal information about someone without their consent, such as a home address, telephone number or a gamer’s real name. In some cases, this can lead to additional harassment from others who come across that information.Once this information is online, the harassment can then escalate to swatting. Swatting occurs when an ill-intentioned gamer reaches out to emergency services and law enforcement agencies and asks that they respond to a fake emergency at the victim’s house. When law enforcement enters what they believe to be a dangerous situation, such as the fallout of a shooting or a hostage situation, people can get hurt in the confusion.When harassment transcends the boundaries of the internet, there are far-reaching consequences. To prevent online harassment from escalating and to keep online gaming fun for the entire gaming community, gamers need to report instances of online harassment early to the gaming company or service provider of the gaming platform. Companies need to know about the incident in order for them to step in and remedy the situation. People found guilty of harassment are commonly banned from the game, making the game more safe and more fun for other players. How are companies addressing harassment?

Most large tech and gaming companies are aware of the possibility (if not prevalence) of online harassment happening on their platforms. And many of these companies have put measures in place to help players report online harassment or digital abuse. Console gaming tycoons Xbox (owned by Microsoft) and Playstation (Sony) each have a clearly defined code of conduct outlining the boundaries of behavior accepted on the platforms. Microsoft’s Community Standards and Sony’s Community Code of Conduct leave very little room for misunderstanding where the boundaries of acceptable and unacceptable online behaviors lie.On top of these overarching guidelines, Xbox and Playstation have created clear, step-by-step procedures for how to block players, file complaints and report incidents of online harassment. Of course, the options of blocking other players or filing reports of online harassment are not limited to the world of console gaming. Just about every online gaming platform has similar options available to players. For example, the online gaming platform Steam has posted rules and guidelines and a Steam Online Conduct guide, both of which clearly outline what is considered inappropriate behavior that will not be tolerated. Steam users are also encouraged to file a complaint should they experience harassment or come across inappropriate content.Harassment and defamation are not the only things gamers need to report. Gaming platforms encourage people to report a wide range of incidents. Some of these include (but are not limited to) cheating, posting spam, posting inappropriate or offensive content, or using inappropriate profile pictures and player names.What are the steps to take when targeted?In most cases dealing with online harassment isn’t a matter of toughing it out. Being proactive means, you’re more likely to get the behavior to stop. Luckily, there are several steps you or your child can take to deal with online harassment. Let’s look at a few:Step 1: Document and gather evidence. Gathering evidence in the form of digital records is incredibly important if you are being harassed. The evidence is crucial for when you need to take criminal or legal action against your aggressor. Since online harassment can cross into real life, you need to have proof of everything that has happened in the digital world. Document all of your interactions with the person harassing you. This means taking and printing screenshots and getting timestamps whenever you can. (Tip: Screenshots often save with a file name that doubles as a timestamp.)Step 2: Tell them to stop, but don’t initiate a dialogue with the harasser. This is an important step to take when you’re dealing with online harassment. As a one-time action, tell the person they need to stop harassing you. Engaging with the harasser can lead to escalation.Step 3: Try not to take it personally. Regardless of the level of harassment, remember that someone else is behaving badly, and their words and actions are not a reflection of you. Try to distance yourself from the scenario emotionally. In a nutshell, don’t let them push your buttons. By refusing to engage, you are taking away their power over you.Step 4: Block and report them. Most games provide players with the option to block and/or report other players. You can ensure you won’t be paired up with them again by blocking a player, and hopefully, the harassment will end there. If the harassment is more serious in nature, you should report the player as well. Filing a formal complaint might mean the aggressor is completely banned from the game as a consequence.Step 5: Speak to the other players. It takes a tribe. Speak to the other players in your game about the player targeting you. Chances are, some of them will have had similar experiences. The chances of having an aggressor banned from the game are much higher if multiple complaints are filed against them.Step 6: Reach out to the game moderators. Game moderators can act as both the police and peacekeepers. If your game has a moderator, you can reach out to them and make them aware that another player is harassing you.Step 6: Know your legal rights. Stay prepared by knowing your rights if you encounter online harassment. Carla Franklin, a cyber abuse expert, survivor and advocate for victims, offers this tip on her website: “Even if you have a lawyer or the police involved in your situation, you are your own best advocate and know your case better than anyone.” We’ve provided a list of resources below. Step 7: Contact the police. If the person who is harassing you makes threats or does something that is considered illegal in the real world, you should contact the police. If another player threatens your life or causes you harm, it is time to get law enforcement involved.Step 8: Step up your internet security. Some people may be more tech-savvy than others in gaining information on you and your online activities. They may go so far as to try to access your email or social media accounts. But you can make it harder for others to engage in doxxing by tightening up your online security. It is incredibly important to have two-factor authentication and a very strong password for each account. Have a good look at how much information you have posted about yourself and your whereabouts online. It may not seem important to you at the time you post something, but for an aggressor who is gathering sensitive and personal information about you, your social media accounts can be a goldmine.Step 9: Reach out for support. As with any other traumatic experience in life, you should reach out to your support network and possibly even a licensed mental health professional for help. Being the target of online harassment is something you shouldn’t have to deal with by yourself. Samantha Silverberg, the co-founder of the Online SOS Network, told Psychology Today, “People don’t realize how big of an issue it is from a mental health perspective. It’s really hard to quantify what’s happening.” Online harassment can have a massive impact on an individual’s mental health, so getting help and reaching out for support is incredibly important in many cases.Step 10: Look out for others. Anyone is at risk of becoming a victim of online harassment. Don’t be a bystander if you see someone harassing another player. The gaming community is meant to be a safe space for everyone, and identifying and dealing with a troll often needs to be a collective effort. Emily May, the co-founder and executive director of Hollaback! and HeartMob, which supports people who are being harassed online, reported to Vice, “We have to depend on one another and work together to change the culture that makes online harassment acceptable.” What resources are there?Because online harassment is such a big issue, there has been an increase in people and groups advocating for the victims of online harassment. These individuals, support groups, and nonprofit organizations aim to end all online harassment and have made many available resources on the topic. Here are a few resources you can turn to if you, or someone you know, is being harassed online:HeartMob: A nonprofit organization powered by activists that aim to end online harassment. The platform provides real-time support for anyone who experiences online harassment and has made available a long list of resources, including helpful guides and more information on the topic of harassment.Crash Override Network: A crisis helpline, advocacy group and resource center for people who are experiencing online abuse. The group has made various resources available, including educational materials, referrals, guides and interactive tools, which people can use to inform and educate themselves on online harassment.   Cyber Smile Foundation: A nonprofit organization working towards ending online harassment and cyberbullying and promoting kindness, diversity and inclusion online. They offer several articles and guides aimed specifically at the gaming community. International Game Developers Association (IGDA): A nonprofit organization with extensive resources covering how to respond to online harassment. Online SOS: A platform providing information and tools to help empower people dealing with online harassment. The nonprofit also offers services such as crisis coaching and referrals to experts.Feminist Frequency: A nonprofit educational organization that has put together an extensive guide on how to protect yourself from online harassment.  Data & Society Research Institute: This nonprofit research organization has compiled a detailed report on America’s online harassment, digital abuse, and cyberstalking.  The bottom lineThe majority of people looking at online gaming as a source of entertainment want to join a community of people who have one thing in common: a love for games. Unfortunately, not everyone is doing their part to create a safe and positive online gaming culture.Two-thirds of online gamers in the U.S. have experienced some form of online harassment, and often the harassment does not simply end when a player logs off. Luckily, there are many steps a victim of online harassment can take to empower and protect themselves. There are also many resources available to educate yourself further on the topic of online harassment. Take control of your gaming experience and do your part to spot and report online harassment early to help ensure a safe and fun gaming community for everyone.

ZDNet Recommends More

When it comes to internet speed tests, Ookla’s Speedtest is the gold standard. So when Ookla examined its data for Starlink and its satellite internet rivals, HughesNet and Viasat, the numbers it comes up with are meaningful. 

ZDNet Recommends

The best internet service providers

When you’re comparing internet providers for your business, don’t just look at speed and price. More than anything else, you want the most reliable connection to keep your business running.

Read More

To no great surprise, Ookla found Starlink beats HughesNet and Viasat handly. The company found that “Starlink was the only satellite internet provider in the United States with fixed-broadband-like latency figures, and median download speeds fast enough to handle most of the needs of modern online life at 97.23 Megabits per second (Mbps) during Q2 2021. HughesNet was a distant second at 19.73 Mbps and Viasat third at 18.13 Mbps.”As for latency, the time between when you start an activity over the internet and when you get a response back, it’s not even a competition. Starlink’s median latency, 45 milliseconds (ms) is close to fixed broadband’s 14 ms. Low latency is vital for voice and video calling, gaming, and live content streaming. By comparison, Viasat, 630 ms, and HughesNet, 724 ms, are almost unusable for these purposes. Why was there such a huge difference? It’s simple physics. Unless we ever get quantum networking, we can’t network faster than the speed of light. Starlink uses low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, flying above us at a relatively close 550 to 1,200 kilometers (km), while HughesNet and Viasat have far higher geosynchronous orbits of about 35,000km.Of course, even Starlink isn’t as fast as cable or fiber-based internet. According to Ookla, the median fixed-broadband in the US is 115.22Mbps with a latency of 15ms. But, Starlink was never meant to compete with Earth-bound internet in cities and suburbs. It’s meant to offer an alternative to people living in the country. There I know people who are still using — yes, I’m serious — dial-up modems and slow-as-dirt DSL connections with speeds that go all the way down to Kilobits per second (Kbps). For these users, Starlink is clearly the better choice. But, Starlink is still being rolled out. This means some places at some times get much better performance than others. Ookla found at the top were users in Morgan county, Alabama at 168.30 Mbps, while lagging more than 100 Mbps behind were the residents of Madison County, Indiana.Generally speaking, due to how the Starlink satellite constellations are currently set up, the farther North you live, the better your connection. But, as Morgan county shows, that’s not a hard and fast rule. For example, in Canada Starlink’s median download speed of 86.92 Mbps exceeded the country’s median fixed broadband speed of 84.24 Mbps. 

In other countries, such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom Starlink’s speed vastly beats terrestrial internet speeds. In France, Starlink’s download speed 139.39 Mbps, easily outran the country-wide fixed broadband average speed of 70.81 Mbp. With Germany, the difference is even larger. A German internet user can expect to see a Starlink speed of 107.98 Mbps while its Earth-bound competitors come in at 58.17 Mbps. While in the UK, and not just in those areas of Scotland far away from the usual internet providers, Starlink’s 108.30 Mbps beats fixed broadband, 50.14 Mbps, hollow. Of course, in all cases, Starlink’s latency will be slower than its territorial competitors. You can’t beat physics. You might be wondering how HughesNet and Viasat can stay in business. The reason for that is simple. They’re the only internet game in town in many countries. For instance, in Brazil, Viasat’s 60.30 Mbps download speed is comparable to fixed broadband’s 61.38 Mbps. If you live in the campos, the countryside, you can get Viasat, where you may not have a practical alternative. But, while Starlink may sound wonderful, its manufacturing lines are still lagging far behind demand. I, for instance, have yet to see my Starlink Terminal and I ordered it almost six months ago. In theory, Starlink will be available around the world by September. In practice, I’m not counting on it. Is Starlink for everyone? No. But, if you live beyond the reach of conventional high-speed internet or areas with poor general internet service, you’ll want to try to get it. Once in hand, it’s clearly the best satellite internet service.Related Stories: More

San Francisco is in a unique position when it comes to internet access. The city is investing $1.5 billion to build a fiber-optic network that provides all homes, apartments and businesses with high-speed 1 Gbps internet service. Once the plans are complete, San Francisco will be the country’s largest city to own and operate its own fiber network — and its residents and visitors will be connected to one of the highest speed networks in the country, regardless of where they’re located.If you’re new or moving to town, you’ll have access to a variety of San Francisco internet providers that offer some of the fastest speeds in the country for affordable prices. The following is our review of the best San Francisco internet providers and what they have to offer.

The best San Francisco internet providers: summed up

XfinityViasatAT&T FiberSonicDefining traitBest for City-Wide CoverageBest for Satellite InternetBest for FiberBest for SpeedConnection typeCable internetSatelliteFiberFiberCopper and Fiber HybridDownload speeds (Mbps)25 Mbps100 – 200 Mbps300 Mbps600 Mbps1000 Mbps12 Mbps25 Mbps30 Mbps50 Mbps100 Mbps300 Mbps1 GbpsFiber: 1 GbpsCopper and Fiber/Copper Hybrid: 75 MbpsPrices starting at$29.99 per month$35 per month$40 per month$40 per month (May differ by zip code)Contract length12 months24 months or a more expensive no-contract plan12 months12 monthsData cap1 TB12 GB for an entry-level plan, higher data caps available for higher-tier plans1 TB or unlimitedNoneAll information accurate as of 02/20/2020.

Best for city-wide coverage

Shutterstock

Xfinity is at the top of the best San Francisco internet providers list for its wide coverage area, ensuring your new residence will have access to internet service wherever in San Francisco it may be located. Packages not only include home internet, but also offer access to Xfinity’s WiFi hotspots throughout the county so you can connect all your devices and save on your data usage, while you’re on the go.Price: Internet prices start at $29.99 per month for light internet use with 25 Mbps download speeds and $59.95 for Performance Plus download speeds of 1 Gbps.Speed and Data: Xfinity offers 5 download speed plans of 25 Mbps, 100 – 200 Mbps, 300 Mbps, 600 Mbps and 1000 Mbps. All plans come with data limits of 1 TB, except for the highest-tier plan, which has no data cap.Plans/Packages: You’ll have access to Xfinity bundles with your choice of high-speed Internet, landline and mobile phone service, cable TV, and home security/automation. A bundle including internet and ten cable TV channels starts at $34.99 per month.Contract Options: The best rates for San Francisco internet and Xfinity packages are provided with a 12-month contract.

View Now at Xfinity

Best for satellite internet

If you’d rather avoid compromising your data speeds because of the shared internet connection with other users in the neighborhood, or if you’d like to have a plan that isn’t wired to your actual geographical location, satellite internet may be the best choice for you. Viasat’s satellite internet service is one option available to all of San Francisco.Price: Viasat’s internet service starts at $35 per month for the first year and includes DIRECTV service with 15 basic channels. The entry-level $30 per month internet-only package is only available for 3 months before the price jumps up to $50 per month, making the internet and DIRECTV promotion the better deal.Speed and Data: The entry-level plan gives you download speeds of 100 Mbps and a data cap of 12 GB. If you plan on streaming movies or playing games, higher data cap plans are available.Plans/Packages: Liberty, Gold, Bronze, and Platinum packages are available, offering different speeds and data limits. The service plans offer a range in speeds from 12 Mbps to 100 Mbps and data caps of 12 GB to unlimited data. You can bundle Viasat Voice service to your internet package for an additional $20 per month for unlimited local and long-distance calls nationwide and in Canada.Contract Options: Viasat packages come with a 24-month contract. You can select a no long-term contract option, but it incurs a $300 non-refundable fee.

View Now at Viasat

Best for fiber

Shutterstock

San Francisco is building an entire fiber-optic network that will be managed by the city. In the meantime, AT&T offers the best fiber optic service in the area. Fiber optic internet is faster than cable because you won’t have to share the broadband with your neighbors. AT&T’s San Francisco internet packages and solid customer support are other good reasons why you should include the provider on your list of companies to consider.Price: Internet prices start at $40 per month for 300 Mbps download speeds when you bundle fiber internet into your package. The price includes a $10 per month equipment fee.Speed and Data: AT&T Fiber is available in San Francisco at two speeds: 300 Mbps with a data limit of 1 TB or 1Gbps download speed with no data cap.Plans/Packages: You can choose to bundle fiber optic internet and TV for the best deals. Prices vary according to your area but expect to pay roughly $80 per month for 300mbps-speed internet and 155 DIRECTV channels.Contract Options: AT&T Fiber requires a minimum 12-month service agreement.

View Now at AT&T

Best for speed

Shutterstock

If you need the highest speeds possible, Sonic may be the answer. According to the provider, users are able to video chat in 4K, perform 70 GB backups in as little as ten minutes, and download 30 GB games in just a few minutes when using their 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) service.Price: Sonic’s internet package starts at $40 for 1000 Mbps in the first year for the San Francisco area. The price increases to $50 per month after the first year. Installation is free and Sonic will even pay off your existing contract, up to $200*, if you switch.*Sample addressed used for this information. Actual price and discounts may vary.Speed and Data: Sonic’s San Francisco internet plan comes with 1 Gbps download speeds and unlimited data with no speed throttling during busier periods or if you’re using high amounts of data.Plans/Packages: When you bundle phone service with your internet service plan, you’ll get unlimited calls to over 60 countries, your own virtual private network (VPN), personal web hosting, and a new domain for free.Contract Options: You can try Sonic for 30 days free with no contract. If you choose to keep the service, you’ll be required to sign up for 12 months.

View Now at Sonic

How we found the best internet providers in San Francisco

We analyzed a dozen companies to find the best internet providers in San Francisco. Some of the key features we looked for are:Coverage: The finalists in our San Francisco broadband review offered good coverage for the area. This was the most important factor, so you can rest assured the plans and offers are likely available for your area.Value. You often get what you pay for. The cheapest broadband provider may not be the most convenient. We looked over many provider’s offerings in search of speeds, data caps, contract lengths, packages offered and equipment costs to determine which internet providers in San Francisco provide customers the best value.Customer Satisfaction. At Reviews.com, satisfaction ratings from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) and J.D. Power are an important part of the decision-making process on which services and products are the best. Broadband service provider ratings are mediocre across the board, so analyzing each internet provider individually and comparing them to industry averages gives us a better idea of how they respond to customer issues.

How much speed do I need to stream movies and for online gaming?

Streaming movies and downloading games can take up a lot of bandwidth. And if you have several household members on multiple devices, the higher the speed you can afford, the better the streaming. Aim for a service plan of 1000 Mbps if you don’t want to experience lag while streaming.

How fast is internet service in San Francisco?

If you’re moving to San Francisco, you’re in luck. You’ll have access to several providers offering 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) service.

Is fiber internet faster than broadband cable?

Yes, fiber is the fastest option of the two. The reason being the wiring that carries the internet into your home. Fiber optic internet is delivered on a dedicated line straight to you. Broadband cable wires are shared with anyone signed up for the service in your area, which can create a slowdown in speeds if several users in the neighborhood are online at the same time.

ZDNet Recommends More

Spectrum is one of the largest broadband internet providers in the United States. Spectrum Internet prices range from $50 to $105, and speeds ranging from 200 Mbps to 940 Mbps with three plans. Their plans come with no contracts, no data caps or extra fees and include a free modem rental, free access to a nationwide network of Wi-Fi hotspots and free security software. However, unless you request self-installation, there is an installation fee.According to the most recent FCC internet report, a Spectrum Internet review shows that the company has some of the most consistent internet speeds compared to other internet service providers (ISPs) and scored better than most in meeting or exceeding advertised internet speeds. While the infrastructure and services provided by Spectrum have seen high ratings, their reputation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is less promising. The BBB gave Spectrum an F rating, the lowest grade possible. This measurement evaluates how a company interacts with its customers and can reflect its customer service. On the 2020 J.D. Power ISP satisfaction survey, which questions customers about their residential ISP satisfaction, Spectrum scored average in most regions of the United States except for the east region, where it scored below average. Benefits One of the biggest benefits of Spectrum Internet is that there are no data caps. This means users do not have to pay extra based on their usage. This is especially helpful to people who stream a lot of video content. Spectrum Internet also does not require users to sign a contract, allowing users to terminate their service at any time instead. Spectrum Internet also comes with several free services, including access to a nationwide network of Wi-Fi hotspots, a suite of security software and a free modem throughout the service term. Drawbacks The biggest drawback to Spectrum Internet is its history of poor customer service, as evidenced by its BBB and J.D. Power reports. Spectrum’s monthly fees are also a bit higher than other cable providers. While users can purchase their own approved router, if you want a router through Spectrum, it’s an additional $5 per month for the basic and Ultra plans. Spectrum internet plans and prices Plan Download Speeds up to: Price per month: Number of Devices: Spectrum Internet200Mbps$49.994-5 Spectrum Internet Ultra400Mbps$64.996-8 Spectrum Internet Gig940Mbps$104.9910+Data effective 1/19/2021

* For more details on these plans, click here to learn more from Allconnect. Pricing With Spectrum Internet, you may request a self-install kit or pay a one-time installation fee of $50 to have Spectrum install its equipment. That’s a lower installation price than some other providers charge, and not all companies allow for self-installation. Two of Spectrum’s plans rely on cable internet and can often be installed with minimal effort, especially if the location already has coaxial lines. Spectrum Internet prices start at $50 per month for 200Mbps, with the middle tier plan being $65 per month for 400Mbps, and the top tier plan being $105 per month with 940Mbps. Although it may not be intuitive, the more expensive plans charge less per Mbps of speed. Contacting Spectrum to schedule an installation is as easy as filing a purchase request on their website or calling the sales phone number. If you want to do the installation yourself, make sure you have the necessary equipment and request a self-installation when you speak with a Spectrum sales representative. Spectrum speeds and data caps Plan Download Speeds up to: Price per month: Number of Devices: Spectrum Internet200Mbps$49.994-5 Spectrum Internet Ultra400Mbps$64.996-8 Spectrum Internet Gig940Mbps$104.9910+ Estimated speeds While Spectrum has speeds listed with each of their plans, it’s important to note these are estimates of top speeds during optimal performance. Although they are well rated for consistently delivering speeds as advertised, it is common for internet speeds to fluctuate based on traffic levels and location. So you may want to purchase a faster internet plan than you otherwise might. For instance, if you need your connection to maintain at least 400Mbps of download speed, you might consider the Spectrum Internet Gig plan. While the Gig plan will often deliver more speed than you need in this case, it should rarely — if ever — drop below that threshold.  For simple tasks such as social media, web browsing, and other basic internet tasks, the Spectrum Internet 200Mbps plan should be sufficient. For slightly more data-heavy tasks, such as online photo and video downloading, the 400Mbps plan is reasonable. For intensive activities, such as streaming HD movies on multiple devices, uploading and downloading large amounts of video content, the 940Mbps plan can be a wise choice. Internet availability Spectrum offers residential broadband cable internet coverage in 41 states and fiber internet to businesses in 41 states and 32 metropolitan areas. As with all ISPs, the speed of Spectrum internet plans varies by location. In general, urban areas with more modern infrastructure experience higher speeds and greater consistency of service. This results from the speed with which infrastructure problems are addressed and how many alternative lines of communication exist within an area. However, rural areas are often capable of high-speed connections but remain more vulnerable to internet disruptions. Spectrum internet additional features Spectrum Internet plans come with several extra features. Each plan includes a rental modem free of charge, meaning you have to return the modem when your plan ends, but you don’t have to pay to use it. Customers gain access to Spectrum Wi-Fi hotspots for mobile internet in public spaces. Each Spectrum account also gives you access to up to six Spectrum email addresses and the Spectrum security suite software, including antivirus and other computer monitoring programs. What we recommend While having speeds of 940Mbps is convenient, the average American family will do excellently with the 200 and 400Mbps plans. The average internet speed in America is around 124Mbps and falls well below Spectrum’s slowest plan. However, as long as your connection is above 25Mbps consistently, your network should be able to handle most basic internet activities.  For homes with only one to five devices and one to two regular internet users, the 200Mbps plan is excellent. For larger households and more devices, the 400Mbps plan is recommended. At the end of the day, though, the best plan for your family will depend on your household’s use. It can be wise to start with a slower plan and upgrade speeds with that provider if it becomes necessary. Just make sure that faster speeds are available for your location before you commit to such a strategy. The Bottom Line Spectrum Internet plans have no data caps, no contracts, and come with a free modem rental. Spectrum broadband internet is widely available, with a presence in 41 states. Three plans are offered, ranging in price from $50 to $105, with speeds ranging from 200Mbps to 940Mbps. The first two plans use cable internet while the third, the highest speed plan, uses fiber. Spectrum delivers quality internet at a variety of speeds, scoring well with the FCC on actual speeds versus advertised speeds and consistency of speed. This same report highlights that Spectrum has above-average latency and below-average packet loss. However, based on Spectrum Internet reviews, the company has a reputation for poor customer service and average customer satisfaction, as can be seen on the BBB and the J.D. Power reports. Nevertheless, their product exhibits many signs of quality, and the lack of any contract makes cancellation easy. 

What is Spectrum’s best plan, and how much does it cost?

Spectrum Internet Gig is the plan that delivers the most speed. Because it uses fiber, users will experience lower latency issues than with other plans. For those who want the absolute most of their internet, this is the best plan, but it is also the most expensive at $105 per month.

Where is Spectrum available?

Spectrum broadband internet is available in 41 states across the United States. Further, Spectrum offers fiber internet to businesses in 41 states and 32 metropolitan areas. However, speeds and plan availability vary by location within these locales.

How fast is Spectrum Internet?

According to the most recent FCC  report on ISP speed scores, a majority of panelists reported that most of the time, Spectrum (listed as Charter on the report) internet speeds were higher than 95% of the advertised speed. According to this same FCC report, spectrum maintains among the most consistent internet speeds across time and geography. On latency, Spectrum scored slightly higher than average. The final part of the FCC report shows that, compared to other ISPs, Spectrum showed minimal packet loss. Overall, this is good news for Spectrum customers, as it shows Spectrum can deliver on their advertised speeds.

Does Spectrum have data caps?

Unlike many ISPs, Spectrum does not have data caps placed within their plans. This means there is no limit to how much data you can download and upload. The average American household uses  344 gigabytes per month. With many ISPs, it’s necessary to either pay extra for unlimited data or pay overage fees any time you go over your monthly data allotment.

Whom is each plan best for?

200Mbps: Best for 2-3 users with 4-5 devices, or one device used for high bandwidth activity such as HD movie streaming or light online gaming.400Mbps: Best for 3-4 users with 6-8 devices, or two devices used for high bandwidth activity such as HD movie streaming on multiple devices or moderate online gaming.·  940Mbps: Best for 4 or more users with 10 or more devices, or three to four devices used for high bandwidth activity such as HD movie streaming on numerous devices or heavy online gaming.

ZDNet Recommends More

Image: Chris Duckett/ZDNet
The company responsible for the National Broadband Network has informed the Senate it has seen plenty of complaints about its HFC network. “From Feb 2021 to May 2021, NBN Co received a total of 9,970 speed-related/ performance-related faults after which it investigates the actual cause and determines the appropriate resolution of the ticket,” NBN Co said in response to Senate Estimates Questions on Notice. There are around 2.5 million cable connections on NBN’s network, with the company previously saying 97% of connections were able to access speeds of 250Mbps, and 58% were able to get over 500Mbps. By year-end, the company wants 94% of its cable connections to be capable of over 500Mbps. In other responses, the company filled in a little detail from its recent appointment performance declines. According to its most recent monthly progress report, NBN reported its right first-time installation metric recovered to 78% after falling to a low of 74% in May. Similarly, the meeting agreed fault restoration times metric bounced back to 74% after dropping to 70% the month prior. Both metrics had previously been in the high 80% or 90% range. “This metric has been impacted by some unexpected challenges following the recent implementation of a new appointment scheduling system,” the company said in a note attached to the report.

“NBN Co is working closely with phone and internet providers and delivery partners to have these issues resolved as soon as possible.” Responding to the Senate, NBN said in April 8.9% of all scheduled appointments were missed compared to 5.8% in May 2020. “A missed appointment refers to where a technician did not attend the premises within the agreed appointment window, as per the service level schedule,” NBN said. “In many of these cases the technician turns up earlier or later than the stipulated time and still completes the job on the day. The number also includes some cases where bad weather restricted the ability to complete the job.” NBN also revealed it cancelled over 15% of appointments in April, 30,184 of 195,622 appointments, and almost 14%, or 27,790 of 199,742, appointments in May. The company said it was common for appointments to be cancelled when a line resumed service and the appointment was no longer needed, which included situations such as a mass outage due to a fibre cut, or other core network issues. “When a technician calls a customer on approach of an appointment, the customer may cancel the appointment as their service is working,” NBN added. “Sometimes the issue resolves by itself, i.e. the customer may have replaced some of their hardware like the modem which was causing the issue.” The company recently spelled out how its ServiceMax Go (SMAX-Go) app for technicians interacts with its ServiceNow, ServiceMax, and Oracle back-ends, as well as the cost of some of the system. “The cost to develop the ServiceMax (includingSMAX-Go app) component of the system architecture to support the new field contracts under Unify was AU$13.3m total, over FY19, FY20 & FY21,” NBN said. “SMAX-Go went live in Victoria and South Australia on 14 April 2021, followed by New South Wales, Tasmania and Australian Capital Territory on 28 April 2021. The app is yet to go live in Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland.” During a hearing in May, NBN said the problems experienced by technicians when the app launched in NSW had arisen because the system was overloaded. “What happened, when literally it was rolled out in New South Wales, the platform went down and we then had, due to literally the doubling of our workforce on the system, we then add the issues around the functionality where it wasn’t syncing properly, so therefore it caused a poor experience,” COO Kathrine Dyer said. Dyer said the software was hit by a trio of factors: A two-day platform outage that hit NBN and technicians; it wasn’t syncing; and it was updating its functionality. In response to a question on whether the system had run over budget, NBN replied the system now fell under its business as usual maintenance and support. “The Unify project was initially due to be delivered in December 2019; however, to avoid seasonal impacts delivery was deferred to May 2020, which was further impacted due to COVID-19 with revised delivery to February 2021. Under Unify, NBN Co launched its Internal Field Workforce in July 2020, followed by a September 2020 launch of its network module,” NBN said in its most recent responses. Elsewhere, NBN said as of 11 June 2021, 1,156,061 premises were ready for service within its brownfields full fibre footprint, and the company purchased almost 60,000 kilometres of copper cable by June 16. “A common misconception seems to be that this copper is replacing existing copper in the legacy network. In fact, this material is necessary to create short connections to new and upgraded components in the network,” it said. “For example, close to 40% of this volume is for specialised copper cable used in the FttC network construction for short extensions of lead-in cables to the FttC DPU location. Copper is also required to connect the local network into new FttN nodes, which are then connected with new fibre to the exchange.” Related Coverage More