Internet and telecommunications options in Iowa: High-speed internet availability statewide. Major ISPs: CenturyLink, Mediacom, Windstream. Fiber-optic networks expanding. Satellite internet for rural areas. 5G coverage in urban spaces. Data caps may apply. Cable and DSL prevalent. Wi-Fi hotspot accessibility. Broadband grants and subsidies. Iowa Communications Network services.
High-speed internet availability statewide.
Iowa boasts extensive high-speed Internet coverage, with over 30% of the state having fiber internet access, ranking 17th in the U.S. for fiber connection coverage. Additionally, the state has 80% cable and 90% DSL coverage, ensuring high-speed connections are widely available across most areas, including major cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City.
Major ISPs: CenturyLink, Mediacom, Windstream.
Mediacom stands out as the best Internet Service Provider for most Iowa households owing to its extensive availability and attractive introductory pricing, delivering speeds up to 2 Gbps. CenturyLink and Windstream also cover a significant portion of the state, with CenturyLink offering both DSL and fiber plans under the Quantum Fiber brand, and Windstream providing DSL and fiber through its Kinetic service. Each provider offers a range of speed tiers and pricing options to cater to varied consumer needs. For more detailed information, visit CNET's comprehensive guide on the Best Internet Providers in Iowa.
Fiber-optic networks expanding.
MidAmerican Energy is expanding its fiber network across Iowa, starting in 2025, to enable internet service providers (ISPs) to build new broadband connections and provide affordable, high-speed internet to underserved communities, leveraging a $37.8 million federal grant to extend the network over 2,100 miles. For more information about this important initiative, you can visit the MidAmerican Energy website.
Satellite internet for rural areas.
Viasat Satellite Internet is widely accessible across Iowa, delivering high-speed internet with impressive download speeds reaching up to 100-150 Mbps in certain areas and at least 50 Mbps almost anywhere throughout the U.S. Especially beneficial for rural and remote communities where alternative internet solutions are scarce, Viasat provides a reliable option. Additionally, it offers convenient bundling opportunities with satellite television and VoIP phone service. For more information, you can visit the Viasat Satellite Internet website.
5G coverage in urban spaces.
The nPerf maps offer detailed coverage of 5G mobile networks in urban areas across Iowa, such as Iowa City, Des Moines, and Cedar Rapids. This valuable data is gathered through user tests conducted in real conditions and is frequently updated, with coverage maps being refreshed hourly and speed maps every 15 minutes. For more information on this extensive and dynamic mapping service, you can visit the nPerf website.
Data caps may apply.
In Iowa, data caps may apply to certain internet providers, such as Mediacom, which imposes data limitations, while fiber providers like Metronet and Google Fiber often offer unlimited data. Cable and satellite internet providers, including Rise Broadband, are more likely to have data caps, with overage fees or throttled speeds for exceeding the limits.
Cable and DSL prevalent.
In Iowa, cable internet, particularly through Mediacom, is the most prevalent and recommended option due to its high availability, decent speeds, and low introductory pricing. DSL internet, offered by providers like CenturyLink and Kinetic, is also widely available but generally slower and less reliable than cable internet. For more information, visit the Best Internet Providers in Iowa page.
Wi-Fi hotspot accessibility.
Ensuring seamless internet connectivity has become an essential requirement in today's digital age. For those looking to enable internet access on-the-go, detailed guidance on setting up a Wi-Fi hotspot from your smartphone is available, covering instructions for both iPhone and Android users. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who rely on personal devices for their connectivity needs. In contrast, Telecommunication Access Iowa offers a specialized program tailored for individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have speech difficulties, providing smartphones, tablets, and accessories without a specific focus on Wi-Fi hotspots. Meanwhile, The University of Iowa caters to its community with accessible Wi-Fi options through the eduroam network, beneficial for students, faculty, and staff, though these outdoor and drive-up locations serve a different purpose than creating personal hotspots. While all these resources offer connectivity solutions, the Access Point Hotspot resource stands out for those looking to utilize their smartphones for internet sharing.
Broadband grants and subsidies.
Iowa has allocated significant funds for broadband expansion through the Empower Rural Iowa Broadband grant program, with $148.96 million in federal funding from the 2021 American Rescue Plan to connect over 12,000 Iowans to high-speed internet. In addition, significant [funding](https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/iowa-targets-rural-internet-with-150-million-broadband-grants/) of $415 million is expected from the bipartisan federal infrastructure law to target high-cost areas.
Iowa Communications Network services.
The Iowa Communications Network (ICN) offers an extensive array of services such as high-speed data, voice solutions, cybersecurity, expert consultation, colocation, and structured cabling, catering to state and federal government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, public safety, and libraries throughout Iowa. The network plays a crucial role in supporting telemedicine, telejustice, and emergency response communications, ensuring reliable and secure telecommunications services statewide. To explore more about these offerings, visit their website for detailed information.