Internet Providers: Who’s Who?

May 2, 2023

Internet! Who loves their internet provider? Read on, you might be surprised. Providers in this roundup are Spectrum, Consolidated, Starlink and Fidium.

Now buckle up, I have a lot to share.

First and foremost, math. Whatever speed you choose, your internet will only go as fast as the equipment you run it on. (With the exception being virtualization, but that is irrelevant to this post) This includes your internet router, wireless access points, computer/tablet/phone/alexa/smart thermostat and more. It also includes the physical network cable and wall jacks if you have a wired network. AND it depends on how many devices you use concurrently on the internet. I know people who have to kick their family off the internet so they can use Zoom. In a nutshell, you get what you pay for. A $39 router cannot do the work of a $429 router. (This price is for my point only, do not use it as a reference to make a purchase)

OK, here we go.

  1. Spectrum
    Pros: There is the option to bundle internet, TV and/or phone. Entry level speed good for most homes. No contracts. No data caps. They offer fiber optic connections which I have only seen used in businesses.
    Cons: The costs continue to increase while customer service gets worse. Onsite support can be hit or miss, depending on the technician. Spectrum makes many people angry. I’ve yet to meet someone who has expressed joy in having Spectrum as an internet provider.
  2. Consolidated:
    Pros: Lower monthly internet cost over Spectrum. You can bundle phone. The phone lines are copper wire, which means that if the power goes out, you still have a land line.
    Cons: Bundling TV requires a satellite dish on your property with a wire running to equipment in your house. (Consolidated is partnered with Direct TV, fubo TV and Philo. I’ve only seen Direct TV in this area) I don’t hear as much anger expressed over their service, but I get the sense that folks who use them have lower expectations.
  3. Fidium Fiber:
    Spoiler alert: Fidium is part of Consolidated! This means that the people that maintain Consolidated lines have more to manage, both in and out of the office. I don’t know of anyone using them and have not heard of anyone’s experience. I’ve asked reps for the real costs after the promotional pricing ends. I have not gotten the same answer twice. I can say that fiber optic as a whole is the fastest option out there, but that I’ve only seen businesses use 1 Gb of speed. And that sharks like to attack underwater fiber cables. It’s a thing. Google it.
  4. Starlink:
    Pros: People in the boonies can finally get internet! There is an app to manage your equipment. It is easy to use. Those who have it, love it. There is equipment that you can take on a boat, or a plane and more. -For a price… (Check their site for details and limitations) All of those I’ve met who use it are over the moon with it. This surprised me the first time I heard it. I have to wonder if those folks are still in a honeymoon phase with Starlink.
    Cons: It’s expensive. You have to buy their equipment, half of which needs to be set up outdoors with a wire running back to your house to the indoor equipment. There is no option to make this part wireless. (Just like Consolidated) Depending on where you are located, it can go offline. Did I mention its expensive? Oh, and Elon Musk owns it.
  5. Verizon Wireless. (Wait, what? That wasn’t on the first list)
    If you travel and need secure wireless internet, you can buy a ‘Jetpack’ from Verizon. The pricing structure is like that of a cell phone. It’s great for folks who must have internet in places where they can get a cell signal, but no wireless. It is also a better alternative to public wireless for security. If you are heading out of the country, make sure you are on a plan that covers those costs. (Same for your cell phone. Canada counts too)

Phew! That’s my roundup. Knowledge is power. If you need help assessing your current network and making any necessary upgrades, give me a shout.