Author: Nick Welch

No matter where you live, post-pandemic times have changed how we do business, go to school, and even work. We live in a new digital era. Everyone is online – because they have to be. But a big problem lies with this fact – not everyone has internet or a fast, reliable internet connection. 

If you live in a rural community with a slow internet connection, that’s about to change. Amazon and Verizon have a big project up their sleeve that may transform the future of rural internet.

Do you live in a rural area?

We’ve compiled a resource that contains all you need to know about getting the best internet options in rural areas.

Get Rural Internet

Project Kuiper is a means to provide fixed wireless internet to areas with low broadband services. Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said it himself: “There are billions of people without reliable broadband access, and no single company will close the digital divide on its own.”

But two tech giants teaming together could close that gap. 

What is Project Kuiper?

Project Kuiper, or Kuiper Systems, comprises 3,236 LEO (low-Earth orbit) satellites. These satellites aim to bring high-speed broadband internet to underserved areas or areas with no internet at all. These areas include individual households, schools, farms, hospitals, businesses, and any organization that needs high-speed broadband internet. 

Verizon CEO Hans Vestburg stated, “…We know the future will be built on our leading 5G network, designed for mobility, fixed wireless access, and real-time cloud computing. More importantly, we believe that the power of this technology must be accessible for all.”

The project was launched in 2019 and officially approved in 2020 for $10 billion. No specific timeline exists yet, but the two companies expect to complete the project by July 2029. If that seems like a long time, don’t worry. Expect a few satellites released by 2026.

Battle of the Tech Giants

Amazon and Verizon 

Amazon and Verizon agreed to this major project for two reasons. One driver is to bring reliable broadband internet to rural communities. However, their primary reason is that the two companies risk losing customers to Starlink. This includes major corporate clients like Google. 

Amazon and Verizon cannot compete with Starlink on their own, but they can stall.

Amazon chose Verizon because the wireless network company is a leader in the industry. Many people select Verizon because of its coverage. Project Kuiper will expand their 4G/LTE and 5G data networks. Doing so will increase Verizon’s customer base and Amazon’s. 

Starlink

Starlink, a division of SpaceX, designs, manufactures, and launches spacecraft in the hopes to one day provide high-speed broadband internet worldwide with LEO satellites. Starlink has already launched 1,740 satellites, with 100,000 beta testers offering improvements. 

However, Starlink internet isn’t cheap. It’s $110 per month and is only available in select regions of the United States right now. Users can expect download speeds between 100 Mbps and 200 Mbps. In most locations, latency is around 20ms. 

Verizon’s Fixed Wireless

Fixed wireless covers 36% of the US according to the FCC and is one of the best options for rural internet. So how does it work exactly? Radio signals deliver a fixed wireless internet connection to a nearby transmission tower. This delivers internet within a specific range wirelessly. 

Verizon launched its fixed wireless service in 2018 using 5G. The launch targeted only four markets and offered high speeds covering short distances. Verizon then expanded its reach to 50 newer markets and in 2020 started offering the LTE version. The LTE version covers more distance but slightly slower speeds.

Now, the fixed wireless LTE service is available in all 50 states and in over 200 markets. 

It’s not a surprise that Verizon wants to become a national fixed broadband provider. Verizon sees a need for thousands of communities in the US alone, and people love it. Their fixed wireless LTE service is now in over 11 million households, and we can expect it to grow as the years pass.

So what is there to look forward to with fixed wireless internet?

Benefits of Fixed Wireless Internet

Fixed wireless internet is ideal for many rural areas. Let’s see what benefits come with this service. 

Fast Speeds

Fixed wireless internet isn’t quite as fast as fiber internet, but it’s still pretty quick. Households with fixed wireless can expect download speeds between 40 Mbps to 1000 Mbps. You can enjoy high connection speeds without struggling with a physical connection. 

Data Allowance

A data cap is the maximum amount of data a person can use monthly. Everything we do online uses data. Many internet service providers (ISPs) put a cap on how many gigabytes you can use to help manage their network. But some ISPs offer unlimited data, particularly for areas where an internet connection is weak. Fixed wireless can provide unlimited data, or more data, to places where it’s needed. 

Low Installation Costs

Since fixed wireless is cable-free, installation is easy. A transmitter/receiver is fitted to your building or house and is positioned to receive the strongest signal. That’s it. There are no cables to install, making costs cheaper than other connection types. 

Quick Installation Time

Installation is fast without troublesome cables to handle. A technician needs to adjust the transmitter/receiver. Once that is done, the job is complete. Cabling can take several minutes to hours and requires far more resources to get the job done. 

Completely Wireless

Wires and cables are prone to damage for several reasons. If a cable breaks, the connection is lost until that cable is replaced. Wireless connection means an unwavering connection. For rural areas, fixing a damaged cable or dish is costly since it’s more prone to damage from weather. An utterly wireless internet connection means fewer interruptions and breaks in connectivity. 

Reduced Latency

Latency is the number of data packets transferred from one destination to another. Simply put, it’s a measure of delay. When a page takes forever to load, that’s a latency issue. Wired networks such as DSL and cable tend to have higher latency issues than fixed wireless. 

Fixed Wireless vs. Satellite

Satellite internet is also a popular option for rural communities that don’t have a fixed wireless connection. Both internet services transmit a signal from a distribution point to an access point. The distribution point is where the signal is coming from. The difference between these two internet services lies in the composition and distance from the distribution point.

Satellite’s distribution point is a satellite in Earth’s orbit. Traditional satellites are about 22,000 miles away. On the other hand, fixed wireless distribution points are usually within a few miles of a receiving household much closer.

As you can imagine, distance affects connectivity and latency. 

We mentioned before that latency is a measure of delay. It’s how long it takes for data to travel from one point to another. If your connection is slow, laggy, moving at a snail’s pace, etc., odds are you have a latency issue. A satellite internet connection has a long way to travel – 22,000 miles! Combine this with other obstacles like weather, and high latency is often a matter of when, not if. 

How does this affect Project Kuiper? 

The satellites used for Project Kuiper are LEO or low-Earth orbiting satellites. They’re not 22,000 miles away. They could be a few thousand miles away. However, this signal still has to travel further than a fixed wireless internet connection.

Fixed wireless connection has to travel a meager 10 miles to reach an access point. Even in terrible weather, 10 miles is nothing compared to the hundreds of miles for satellites. 

Satellite is experiencing some exciting changes through Project Kuiper. It’s improving. It may not be ready by next year, but we can look forward to progress.

The Future of Rural Internet

If you think space travel is the future, wait until you see how the internet and space travel combine. Providing internet in rural areas may seem like a boring subject to some. But giving internet connection to these communities provides opportunities the world has yet to see.

Rural communities are where much of our food is grown. Imagine how bringing the internet to these areas would affect agriculture. Smart farms will usher in energy efficiency and manufacturing. Transportation will change. No longer will there be food deserts. Not to mention the increase in job opportunities.

The internet changed our world and isn’t stopping any time soon. So brush up on your internet vocabulary. It really is rocket science now!

Don’t get bogged down searching for affordable internet. Depending on your location, there are likely regional or local options that offer more bang for your buck than bigger national names. If you live in the north, Midcontinent Communications (Midco) may be the right choice for you.

As its name suggests, Midco is a Midwest cable internet provider that offers one of the cheapest high-speed internet plans starting at just $14.95/mo. Available to both rural and urban communities, Midco makes heads turn with its plan variety and added perks.

We break down Midco internet and the best options available if you’re shopping on a budget.

• Midwest ISP
• Fast rural internet options
• No contracts or data caps

call833-481-4463

Midco Internet

If you’re just hearing about Midco, you should know Midco is ranked among the top 10 fastest ISPs in the United States for its reliable internet speed. Available to an estimated 1.2 million people throughout the Midwest, Midco services communities across Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. 

While Midco does pack its plans with extra features, it’s not for everyone. Read our Midco internet breakdown below to better understand your options, and decide what provider is right for you.

Our Favorite Features:

• Variety of internet plans – Midco is known for its selection of speed options. Choose between 6 different internet plans depending on your lifestyle needs, and only pay for what you need.

• Unlimited data – Midco offers unlimited data on all of their internet plans, so customers can enjoy the full benefits of their service without overage fees, speed throttling, or random disconnects.

• Rural connectivity – Recognized as a leading rural internet option, Midco provides reliable and accessible internet service to rural areas, ensuring those communities are not left behind in the digital age.

Things to Note:

• Limited Availability – Unfortunately, Midco is only available in select communities throughout 5 states in the Midwest.

• No contracts – While contracts can be nice, you have to look out for sudden price hikes. Midco typically increases prices after their first 12-month promotional period. 

Cheapest Midco Internet Plans

Depending on where you live, Midco offers a variety of internet plans and pricing to fit just about any lifestyle. Midco provides internet speeds ranging from 25 Mbps up to 1 Gbps for everything from simple web browsing to online gaming. See below their internet plan options and which plan we selected as the best deal for your money.

Best Deal for the Price: Midco Internet 50

Starting at $49.95/mo., Midco’s Internet 50 plan packs the most value. With unlimited data, no contracts, and affordable cost, Midco Internet 50 is ideal for small families or households with 3-5 connected devices. A common starter plan for average internet usage, 50 Mbps can support movie streaming, online gaming, and web browsing. And, if you feel like you need an upgrade later on, doubling your speed will only cost an additional $10/mo.

Midco Service Perks

If you’re on the fence about which provider to select, you will want to look at what service perks each has to offer. In addition to its wide variety of plans, Midco also adds value by offering bonus perks for new subscribers. 

• Blazing-Fast Fiber Speeds – Midco is a fiber internet provider offering speeds up to 1 Gbps throughout its service area. In 2021, they will build fiber in parts of SD, MN, and SD that include speeds up to 5 Gbps – the fastest internet speeds in the U.S.

• No Contracts – With Midco, you never have to worry about being locked into a plan you don’t love. Midco does not require contracts on their internet plans, which can be great for those on a tight budget and like the freedom to shop around.

• No Data Caps – Midco offers unlimited data on all internet plans, so you never have to worry about throttling speeds, temporarily disconnects, or overage fees that break your budget.

• Referral Program – Take advantage of the Connect-a-Friend referral program Midco offers that rewards both parties with a credit up to $200 for use on a future bill. 

• 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee – Midco offers full refunds on services if canceled within the first 30 days of your subscription. All rental equipment will need to be returned prior to the 30-day mark as well to be fulfilled.

Additional Ways to Save

Don’t stop at your internet plan when trying to save money. There are additional ways to save on your internet service if you’re determined to trim costs. Depending on which provider you choose, you could use any of these tips below to reduce your monthly payment.

Use your own internet equipment

While providers typically lease their own equipment costing you anywhere from $10 – $25, you don’t always have to accept. Some providers allow customers to use their own router and/or modem, which can save you money in the long run. A decent router costs roughly $100, but you will end up breaking even on that investment in less than a year.

Negotiate a service contract

Even if your provider doesn’t require a contract, you can always try to request one for a chance at lower rates. Offering to sign a service agreement may give you room to negotiate a better price on your monthly bill. The worst they can say is no.

Bundle Services

Bundling services is an easy way to save more money. When you bundle Midco internet with TV and/or phone, your collective bill may be significantly lower than if you were to purchase them separately.

Lifeline Assistance

Midco offers a Lifeline Assistance program in partnership with the FCC that provides discounted services to qualifying households in its service area. Eligible candidates can receive Midco internet with speeds up to 25 Mbps for as little as $9.95/mo.

At the end of the day, each family has their own wish list to base their decision on. If you want to weigh your options further, try entering your zip code below to compare providers available near you.

Are you having issues with your WiFi? If you’re experiencing connectivity issues, consider running a wifi speed test and try switching up the way you access your home network on different devices. Before contacting your internet providers, try switching frequency bands.

Most routers today have dual-band technology that allows users to switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, which can increase internet speed. We explain the main differences between the two bands to help you know what scenarios each works best for.

Need faster WiFi? WiFi 6 is here and promises huge speed gains.

Explore WiFi 6

Interference and Wi-Fi Channels

One important aspect to consider, especially for 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, is the potential for interference. This band is more susceptible to interference from other household devices like microwaves and cordless phones. Additionally, within the 2.4 GHz band, there are multiple channels, and your router selects one automatically. If neighboring routers use the same channel, it can lead to interference and a weaker signal. Switching channels might help improve your Wi-Fi performance, especially in densely populated areas like apartment buildings.

Differences Between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz

If you have a wireless router (802.11n or newer), chances are it supports two separate radio frequency bands: 2.4 GHz and 5. GHz. The main distinctions between these two bands comes down to wireless range and network speed.

Each band has strengths and weaknesses, which we explain in detail below.

GHz and Network Generations

WiFi networks use radio signals in different frequency lengths (i.e 2.4 GHz) to transmit data between routers and smart devices.

Depending on your internet service provider network, there are different standards, or “generations,” of WiFi technology that support faster speeds. In order of release, existing standards include:

• 802.11b (WiFi 1)
• 802.11a (WiFi 2)
• 802.11g (WiFi 3)
• 802.11n (WiFi 4)
• 802.11ac (WiFi 5)
• 802.11ax (WiFi 6)

Many assume a 5 GHz network performs better because it’s a “newer technology.” But this is a myth. Both 5GHz and 2.4 GHz networks were certified in 1999. However, it wasn’t until 2013 that WiFi became popular thanks to the release of WiFi 5 (i.e. 802.11ac). This network standard uses dual-band wireless technology to support simultaneous connections on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. 

GHz and Network Speed

The first key differentiator of the two bands is network speed. A 5 GHz network can carry almost twice as much data per unit of time as a 2.4 GHz network, which makes it faster.

To put it another way, the wavelengths of a 5 GHz frequency band are half the length of a 2.4 GHz frequency band, allowing it to carry more data over shorter distances.

For this reason, devices that require more bandwidth, like gaming consoles and streaming plugins, typically run faster on 5 GHz networks. Conversely, home devices like smart appliances and phones that don’t require as much bandwidth, work just fine on 2.4 GHz networks.

GHz and Network Range

The second key differentiator of the two is network range. A 5 GHz network generally supports faster speeds, but by design, it cannot reach as far as a 2.4 GHz signal. The higher the frequency of the wireless signal, the shorter its range. Therefore, a 2.4 GHz network usually covers a larger surface area than 5 GHz does.

In addition, 5 GHz wavelengths are more prone to collide with other objects (i.e. furniture, walls, etc.), which interferes with its signal. In contrast, 2.4 GHz wavelengths travel farther distances and can penetrate solid objects.

For this reason, a 5 GHz network is better suited for stationary devices like TVs and gaming consoles that don’t require much range, while a 2.4 GHz network works best with phones, alarm systems, and smaller devices that don’t require much bandwidth.

Optimizing Router Settings for Different Bands

To maximize your Wi-Fi experience, consider optimizing your router settings. For 2.4 GHz, selecting a less crowded channel can significantly reduce interference. For 5 GHz, ensure your router is positioned in a central location to maximize its shorter range. Most modern routers offer settings that can help you optimize each band based on your usage and environment.

Choosing Between Bands

In general, what one band excels at the other one lacks, and vice versa. So, the question isn’t, “Which one is better?” The question is, “When should I use them?” We outline a few things to consider when choosing between wireless bands.

1. Size of your home

As we discussed above, the higher the frequency of a network, the shorter its range. So, larger households (usually 1,500 sq. ft. or bigger) tend to benefit from a 2.4 GHz band since they require a greater coverage area. On the other hand, if you live in a smaller home or apartment, 5GHz will deliver faster speeds and eliminate dead spots with ease in most instances.

2. Types of devices

Ideally, you want to use the 2.4 GHz band for devices that require low bandwidth, like smartphones, home security systems, and garage openers. On the other hand, if you stream videos on an Amazon Firestick or have a gaming console, 5 GHz supports high-bandwidth devices best.

3. How devices are being used

Similarly, you’ll want to consider what you’re using your devices for. Certain online activities likie streaming movies can generate and consume more bandwidth than others, regardless of whether you’re on a desktop computer or your smartphone. For example, if you use your phone to check emails, connected to a 2.4 GHz network will suffice. However, using your phone to stream YouTube videos will require more bandwidth, which a 5 GHz network is best for.

How to change frequency settings

Now that you’ve determined which frequency is right for you based on our suggestions above, it’s time to get down to actually using that frequency. Or maybe you’d like to change frequencies depending on your activity or device. Either way, your first step should be to enable wireless connection on your modem and router. 

A dual-band router will keep both frequencies up at the same time. When you try to access your WiFi, you’ll see two networks (SSIDs) with the same name on your local networks list. The only difference will be “5G” or “2.4G” behind the Wifi name.  

When selecting a WiFi for each device, you can decide which frequency to choose based on those networks: 5G for 5 GHz or 2.4G for 2.4 GHz.  

WiFi 6E, WiFi 7, and emerging frequencies

While 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz remain the most widely available frequencies, with new emerging technology, some WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 devices are equipped to provide 6 GHz frequencies.  

A 6 GHz frequency band is more than double the size of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz and supports up to seven channels. As a result, 6 GHz can provide faster speeds, better performance, enhanced capacity for more devices, and reduce common WiFi interference.  

Key Takeaway

All in all, choosing which band to use really depends on the situation. 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks each have their own advantages, and it’s important to take into account multiple factors like your home size, devices, and online activity when determining the right solution for you.

The best part about having a dual-band router is that you can also divvy up bandwidth, connecting different devices to both bands simultaneously. This helps reduce possible network congestion overall.

That said, if you still experience problems with your WiFi connection, you may want to also consider boosting your signal with WiFi extenders or upgrading your internet plan to include higher speeds.

Autumn savings are here! With leaves falling and the holidays approaching, internet providers are unveiling their hottest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. Now is the perfect time to upgrade your home’s connectivity. Fiber, cable, and satellite internet companies are slashing prices for a limited time. Lock in blazing fast speeds and reliable service for less this season.

_{Note: Promotions and offers are subject to change. Call our agents today for the best deals on internet service in your area.}

Call today. One of our agents can find the best internet deals in your area.

855-820-7759

EarthLink

EarthLink offers high-speed internet services to 48 states, with blazing fast fiber optic connectivity reaching speeds up to 5Gbps in select markets. Get started today with 50% off Wireless Home Internet introductory fees, no promo code required. With EarthLink, you’ll receive reliable high-performance internet, responsive customer support, and flexible bundling options for your home network needs.

• Best internet protection
• Unlimited data included
• No credit checks

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Call to order: 833-704-3538

HughesNet

One of the best aspects of HughesNet satellite internet is that it is available in 99% of the U.S. Right now, HughesNet is offering free standard installation*. This is a great deal, as sometimes installing satellite internet can be tricky and time-consuming, and we always advise having professionals handle the installation.

HughesNet is offering a $100 Prepaid MasterCard to new subscribers. So, if you’re a new HughesNet customer, take advantage of this offer sooner rather than later, as it is a limited-time offer.

If you are a new satellite internet subscriber, be sure to have a look at our satellite dish maintenance tips and how to improve your satellite internet connection.

• Satellite internet
• 2-year fixed pricing
• No hard data caps

View Plans

Call to order: 844-957-7613

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Xfinity

Xfinity is one of the largest internet providers in the U.S. It provides an assortment of plans and packages and almost always has a deal going to help you get more and spend less. More often than not, their deals are focused on mobile plans. Depending on which Xfinity internet plan you choose, you can save up to $30 per month when you add Xfinity mobile service.

• Same-day installations
• 8+ million free WiFi hotspots
• Unlimited data available

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Call to order: 833-805-0736

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AT&T

AT&T is offering online promotions again this year for its fiber internet plans. If you qualify, you are eligible for up to a $200 AT&T VISA® Reward Card depending on the fiber plan you choose*. Additional savings with AT&T are available when you bundle services with a mobile plan.

*This offer is limited to AT&T fiber plans and only for new residential fiber customers.

• Variety of plans
• Wide availability
• Fiber internet speeds

View Plans

Call to order: 866-396-3754

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Spectrum

Spectrum is promoting its Spectrum One package that offers additional savings when applied to any Spectrum internet plan. Spectrum One adds advanced WiFi and one free mobile line to internet plans, with a starting price of $49.99 per month. Add in cable TV service and home phone for potentially increased savings.

• Contract buyouts up to $500
• Free access to WiFi hotspots
• Nationwide availability

View Plans

Call to order: 833-743-2042

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Kinetic by Windstream

Kinetic by Windstream is currently running an excellent promotion on its Kinetic internet service. New customers are eligible to receive a $100 VISA prepaid card, while new fiber internet customers are elible for a $200 VISA prepaid card. Restrictions apply and offers are subject to change.

• Unlimited data
• Rural availability
• Free installations

View Plans

Call to order: 844-660-1465

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Optimum

Optimum is offering a $200 prepaid card, free installation, and $10 off the first month for new internet customers. Enjoy fast, reliable fiber internet with one of Optimum’s best deals. Restrictions apply and are subject to the availability of Optimum internet services in your area.

• Reliable internet connection
• Cable & fiber options
• Fixed pricing available

View Plans

Call to order: 833-805-0743

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_{For all deals and promotions: Pricing, speeds, offers, and availability vary by service address and are subject to change at any time. Additional fees, taxes, and terms may apply. As of 9/1/23.}

Don’t let these limited-time Black Friday and Cyber Monday internet deals pass you by. Upgrade now to enjoy faster speeds for gaming, streaming, and working from home. Offset your holiday spending with play to earn apps like Cosmic Rewards, where you can earn retail gift cards just by playing games. Use your Amazon, Target or Walmart earnings to cover the cost of routers and equipment for your new broadband service.

Even if you live in a remote area, rural internet options are available to give you access to the internet speeds you need to stream your favorite content. Here’s a look at the best rural internet options for streaming video and how to optimize your internet connection type to make the most of it.

Types of Rural Internet Suitable for Streaming

Satellite Internet

While not on par with fiber internet or cable internet, satellite internet has improved in the last 5-10 years. Providers like HughesNet and Viasat have been providing decent speeds capable of streaming video content, and Starlink continues to improve its satellite network, resulting in increased speeds and better internet latency. Given that satellite internet is available nearly nationwide, it’s a particularly good option if you live in the country.

Recommended Satellite Internet Providers for Streaming

• Fast satellite internet
• Ideal for rural areas
• Up to 3x faster than DSL*

View Plans

Call to order: 833-702-3163

• Satellite internet
• 2-year fixed pricing
• No hard data caps

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Call to order: 844-957-7613

Fixed Wireless Internet

Fixed wireless internet is a solution that works by receiving signals from a nearby tower, similar to how cell phones work but designed for home internet. It is less common than the other types listed here, but providers like Rise Broadband and Starry offer attractive plans. Fixed wireless is effective in areas where the geographical layout might make cable infrastructure impractical and has limited elevation relief and obstructions.

Recommended Fixed Wireless Internet Providers for Streaming

• Fast speeds in rural areas
• Affordable prices
• Quick installations

call833-481-4463

• 5G Fixed Wireless Provider
• Contract buyout up to $200
• Pause or cancel anytime for free

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DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)

Although it’s one of the older technologies, DSL internet can still offer decent speeds for streaming. You’ll commonly find EarthLink, CenturyLink, and Frontier in many rural areas. Keep in mind, though, that your overall speed will decrease the further you are from the provider’s network hub.

Recommended DSL Internet Providers for Streaming

• Best internet protection
• Unlimited data included
• No credit checks

View Plans

Call to order: 833-704-3538

• Simplified pricing
• Unlimited data included
• No annual contract required

View Plans

Call to order: 833-743-2043

5G Home Internet

Mobile providers are expanding and offering 5G networks in more areas every day. While 5G internet is predominantly urban, its rapid expansion and the robustness of 4G in many rural areas make this a viable option for streaming. It’s not the most ideal solution, especially if you’re not close to a tower, but it’s a reliable internet option if it’s the only one in your area.

Recommended 5G Internet Providers for Streaming

• Variety of plans
• Wide availability
• Fiber internet speeds

View Plans

Call to order: 866-396-3754

• Fast symmetrical speeds
• Fiber-optics network
• No annual contracts

View Plans

Call to order: 833-805-0765

Rural Internet Considerations for Streaming Video

Ideally, streaming video works best over a high-speed, low-latency internet connection. Fiber and cable internet are ideal for these reasons but are scarce in rural areas. As you search for rural internet solutions for streaming, keep the following in mind:

Speed

Speed is of the essence. For SD quality, you’ll need at least 3 Mbps. For HD quality, 5-8 Mbps is recommended. And for ultra HD or 4K, you’ll need upwards of 25 Mbps. Always opt for a little more than the minimum to account for other devices and activities.

Consistency

A stable connection is crucial. Sporadic drops or inconsistent speeds can disrupt streaming and lead to buffering. Which leads to a frustrating streaming experience. 

Data Allowance

Streaming consumes a lot of data. Some rural internet options come with data caps. For regular streamers, it’s crucial to choose a plan with a high internet data cap or ideally, unlimited data. When choosing the  best satellite internet, pay close attention to high-speed data allowances.

Optimizing Your Rural Internet Connection for Streaming Video

Wired Connection

Whenever possible, connect your streaming device directly to your WiFi router using an ethernet cable. This reduces potential interference and usually offers a more stable connection than Wi-Fi.

Optimize Wi-Fi

If you rely on Wi-Fi, ensure your router is in an optimal location. Centralized, elevated positions away from thick walls or electronic devices often give the best signal distribution. Regularly updating your router’s firmware and using WiFi extenders can boost performance.

Limit Other Activities

When streaming, especially in high definition, try to limit other high-bandwidth activities. This includes pausing large downloads, online gaming, or other streaming activities.

Adjust Streaming Quality

Most streaming platforms like Netflix or YouTube allow you to adjust the quality of the video. If you’re facing issues, consider dropping the quality a notch.

Use a Quality of Service (QoS) Setting

Some modern routers have a QoS setting that lets you prioritize certain types of traffic. By prioritizing your streaming service, you can ensure it gets a bigger slice of your bandwidth.

Regularly Monitor and Test

Periodically test your internet speed. This helps you ensure you’re getting the speeds you’re paying for and can identify potential issues.

Streaming video with rural internet can be challenging. Satellite, fixed wireless, 5G, and DSL internet are each capable internet connections capable of offering a decent streaming experience. But knowing what streaming video demands of your internet and some optimization tricks, you can make the most of your rural internet connection.