Internet and telecommunications options in Alabama: Major providers: AT&T, Comcast, Spectrum. Rural areas may have limited options. Fiber availability is expanding. Satellite internet for remote locations. Consider internet speeds and data caps. Price varies by region and provider. Compare bundle deals for savings. Cellular coverage varies across carriers. Check for local internet co-ops. Research customer service reviews.
Major providers: AT&T, Comcast, Spectrum.
In Alabama, major internet providers include AT&T, which is CNET's top pick for its broad network coverage and high-speed fiber plans up to 5,000Mbps. Spectrum is another prominent option, offering cable and fiber plans with speeds up to 1,000Mbps, although it may be more expensive in the long term. Comcast (Xfinity) has limited coverage in the state, mainly around cities like Huntsville, Florence, and Tuscaloosa. For more details, consider checking out the CNET website.
Rural areas may have limited options.
In rural areas of Alabama, internet options are limited, with providers like Total Radio Services and Weiss Internet offering fixed wireless services. However, these options often come with variable speeds and higher prices compared to urban areas. For more information about the best providers available, visit the best internet providers in Alabama for a comprehensive overview and guidance in choosing the right service for your needs.
Fiber availability is expanding.
Fiber internet availability in Alabama is expanding significantly, with a recent $53.5 million grant funding a middle-mile broadband project to lay over 1,000 miles of fiber across 24 counties, connecting 120 community anchor institutions and bringing high-speed internet to over 7,500 unserved businesses and residences. This transformative initiative, covered by BBC Mag, is expected to markedly enhance connectivity, foster economic growth, and improve access to essential digital services for residents and businesses across the state, demonstrating a crucial step towards digital inclusion and modern infrastructure development.
Satellite internet for remote locations.
Viasat Satellite Internet is available throughout Alabama, offering high-speed internet with download speeds up to 100-150 Mbps in some areas and at least 50 Mbps almost anywhere, making it a reliable option for rural and remote locations where traditional broadband is not available. The service requires a clear view of the southern sky for the satellite dish and provides unlimited data plans with reduced speeds after the data threshold is reached. For more detailed information on Viasat Satellite Internet availability and services, you can visit the official website.
Consider internet speeds and data caps.
In Alabama, internet speeds vary widely, with FCC data showing that most homes can access broadband speeds of at least 25Mbps down and 3Mbps up, and about 47% having access to 1,000Mbps downloads. Data caps are not universal, but providers like Xfinity have a 1.2 TB data cap, while others like Google Fiber and AT&T Fiber often have no data caps.
Price varies by region and provider.
In Alabama, internet prices vary significantly by region and provider, with options ranging from Mediacom's $20 per month cable plan to AT&T Fiber's $245 per month for speeds up to 5,000Mbps. Prices for services from providers like Spectrum, T-Mobile, and Verizon also fluctuate depending on the area and available plans. For detailed insights into selecting the best option for your needs, visit the Best Internet Providers in Alabama guide by CNET, which offers comprehensive information tailored to Alabama's diverse internet landscape.
Compare bundle deals for savings.
FTC offers bundle deals that combine high-speed broadband internet, reliable landline voice services, and home security solutions, allowing customers to save by choosing the perfect combination of services tailored to their needs. According to CNET, various providers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon offer bundle options where combining internet with services such as phone plans can effectively reduce monthly costs. Additionally, TDS provides bundle deals that include high-speed internet, TV, and phone services, facilitating significant savings when multiple services are integrated, complete with features like smart Whole Home Wi-Fi and advanced calling functionalities.
Cellular coverage varies across carriers.
In Alabama, cellular coverage varies significantly across carriers, with AT&T and Verizon offering the most extensive and reliable 4G and 5G coverage. On the other hand, T-Mobile is strong in urban areas, and US Cellular excels in rural coverage.
Check for local internet co-ops.
In Alabama, local internet co-ops such as the Alabama Fiber Network (AFN), formed by eight electric cooperatives, are actively expanding high-speed internet access across the state. These co-ops, including Central Alabama Electric Cooperative, Cullman Electric Cooperative, and others, are building a middle-mile network to support last-mile broadband providers and deliver reliable internet to previously underserved areas. As part of this initiative, the Alabama Co-op Middle Mile Network is celebrating the connectivity of its first customer, marking a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide within the region.
Research customer service reviews.
Customer reviews for Spectrum Internet in Alabama highlight mixed experiences, with some praising the technicians for their thorough and knowledgeable service, while others complain about intermittent service, high prices, and poor customer service. Issues like delayed or rescheduled service appointments and inadequate equipment are particularly noted. For more insights, visit the Spectrum Internet Reviews page.