How to Get Internet Without a Phone Line or Cable

Getting internet service once meant you also had to sign up for a phone line or a cable TV package. Thankfully, those days are over. You now have several options for getting internet without a phone line or cable, which can save you money and give you more flexibility. 

Navigating these alternatives can feel overwhelming. At HighSpeedOptions, we help people compare providers and understand the best choices for their needs. This guide will walk you through all the no phone line internet options—from satellite and 5G home internet to fiber—to help you find the right fit for your home and budget. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each, including providers like EarthLink Internet, so you can make an informed decision. 

What Does “Internet Without a Phone Line or Cable” Mean? 

Getting internet without a phone line or cable simply means you are purchasing a standalone internet service. You are not required to bundle it with a landline phone service or a cable TV subscription. This approach gives you the freedom to choose only the service you need. 

One common term you might encounter is Naked DSL. This refers to a DSL internet connection that doesn’t include a voice service package. While traditional DSL often uses existing phone lines, Naked DSL offers broadband without a phone plan, providing a direct internet connection. Most modern internet technologies, like fiber, 5G, and satellite, are naturally standalone and don’t require any bundling. 

Your Options for Internet Without a Cable or Phone Line 

A mobile hotspot allows you to share your smartphone’s cellular data connection with other devices like laptops and tablets. You can also purchase a dedicated mobile hotspot device for a more stable and powerful connection. 

Mobile Hotspot

• Pros: Highly portable, instant setup, great for travel. 
  

• Cons: Often have strict data caps, can drain your phone’s battery quickly, and may not be as fast or reliable as a dedicated home internet connection. 

4G/5G Home Internet 

This option uses cellular networks to deliver internet to your home through a dedicated router. It’s a popular wireless internet choice, especially in areas with good cell reception. As of April 2025, nearly 12% of U.S. households have connected to a 5G home internet network, according to Horowitz Research. 

• Pros: Often faster than mobile hotspots, simple plug-and-play setup, no installation appointments needed.
  
  
• Cons: Performance can vary depending on your signal strength and network congestion. 

Providers like EarthLink offer Wireless Home Internet solutions that fall into this category, giving you a reliable connection using the power of the cellular network. 

Fixed Wireless Internet 

Fixed wireless internet transmits radio signals from a nearby tower directly to a receiver antenna installed at your home. It’s a great internet option for rural areas where wired connections are unavailable. 

• Pros: Provides solid coverage in many rural and suburban areas, generally offers stable speeds. 
  

• Cons: Requires a clear line of sight to the provider’s tower, and availability is often limited to specific regions. 

Satellite Internet 

Satellite internet is available almost anywhere in the U.S., making it a go-to for many rural homes. It works by sending and receiving signals from a satellite in orbit. There are two main types: traditional geostationary satellites and newer low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellations like Starlink. 

• Pros: Near-universal availability. 
  

• Cons: Higher latency (lag) than other connection types, can be affected by weather, and is often more expensive. 

For those in remote locations, EarthLink satellite internet is a strong contender, offering service where other providers can’t reach. 

Fiber-Only Internet 

Fiber-optic internet uses thin strands of glass to transmit data as light, making it the fastest and most reliable option available today. A recent FCC report noted that fiber now accounts for 28 million U.S. broadband connections as of 2023. 

• Pros: Symmetrical gigabit speeds (equal download and upload), extremely reliable, perfect for streaming, gaming, and remote work. 
  

• Cons: Availability is still limited, mainly to urban and suburban areas. 

Providers like EarthLink Fiber Internet offer standalone fiber plans, so you can get incredible speeds without needing to bundle other services. 

Niche and Hybrid Solutions 

For those constantly on the move, there are specialized solutions designed for portable WiFi. These are popular for RV internet and off-grid setups, offered by providers like Nomad Internet and OTR Mobile. They often combine different technologies to provide connectivity wherever you are. 

Comparing Your Internet Options at a Glance 

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you quickly weigh your choices. 

Find the Best Fit for Your Needs 

With so many alternatives to cable and phone line internet, the best choice comes down to your location, budget, and how you use the internet. 

• For rural users: Satellite internet or fixed wireless are often the most reliable options where wired connections are scarce. 

• For mobile-heavy users and travelers: A mobile hotspot or a 5G home internet plan offers the flexibility and performance you need. 

• For speed-focused users: If it’s available in your area, fiber internet is unmatched for speed and reliability, making it ideal for gamers, streamers, and remote workers. 

By understanding these different types of internet without a phone line, you can find a plan that delivers the performance you need at a price you can afford.