Wireless Internet Providers at a Glance
A person’s wireless Internet service provider can play a large role in his or her life. When deciding which Internet service is right for you, it’s important to consider a variety of factors.
Companies like Verizon and AT&T offer expansive coverage areas, while smaller providers such as CLEAR or Cricket Internet have more affordable plans. Whether you’re looking for the most coverage, the lowest price, or some combination of the two, it’s important to compare different providers in your area.
Comparing different wireless internet providers:
The technology of mobile broadband Internet was once limited to laptop cards. Nowadays, a variety of devices can connect you to several wireless networks: 3G, LTE, and WiMAX, to name a few. Here’s a look at some of the more popular providers that offer wireless Internet service:
Sprint Wireless Internet
Sprint is one of the nation’s largest Internet providers, serving more than 50 million customers. Sprint’s 4G network uses WiMAX technology, giving customers access to wireless Internet across many cities nationwide. Sprint also offers products that give you access to both 3G and 4G coverage. Learn more about Sprint Internet.
Verizon Internet
With its LTE network covering more than 370 cities, Verizon’s 4G coverage is among the most extensive available. Verizon offers access to this network via a variety of plans and devices, including all Android and Apple phones and tablets. 3G coverage is still available for customers who don’t currently have a 4G-ready device.
CLEAR® Wireless Internet
In addition to being the company responsible for building the WiMAX network, CLEAR is one of the leading providers of mobile broadband Internet in the nation. CLEAR has a full line of devices that offer 4G speeds at home or on the go, as well as a variety of service plans to meet the varying needs of customers. Learn more about CLEAR Internet.
AT&T Internet
AT&T is another one of the nation’s largest wireless Internet providers, and claims to have the fastest mobile broadband network in the country. With more than 190,000 hotspots nationwide, as well as coverage in all 50 states, AT&T’s network is quite expansive. Most top-of-the-line devices are available through AT&T, as well. Learn more about Cricket Internet still has more than 5.4 million customers in the United States. Cricket’s two main selling points are no long-term contracts, and some of the most affordable internet plans available. They don’t claim to be the fastest or the largest, but they remain an attractive option for many people.
Other factors in choosing a wireless Internet provider
The most important thing to consider when choosing a wireless Internet provider is its coverage area. You may find a great deal or a cool new device, but without proper coverage, you won’t enjoy the full benefits. Be sure to check the coverage map of any broadband Internet service before signing up.
Once you have decided that wireless Internet is right for you, you need to decide what type of contract and what type of device you want. If you’re looking for the stability of a longer-term contract, seek out services that offer them. Likewise, if you’ve got your eye on a specific device, be sure it works with whatever service you sign up for.
