The internet is known to be slow in rural regions of the USA. Most internet providers do not even offer their services in remote areas.
So, how can you access high-speed internet in towns and villages?
Below are a few insights that will help you to enjoy fast internet in rural areas.
Check for ISPs in Your Location
Internet service providers (ISP) offer fiber optic and broadband connections in cities. You can get high-speed internet if these services are available in your region.
So, search for any ISPs offering broadband or fiber optic internet in your location. If they do, you have nothing to worry about.
You can subscribe to unlimited plans that come with speeds of hundreds of MBs to 1 Gbps. Moreover, you can enjoy a steady connection with high bandwidth and minimum latency.
It is also possible to connect many devices without hampering performance. Several devices may be able to stream movies or download files simultaneously.
Search for Viable Internet Options
You don’t need to worry if ISPs are not available in your remote location. There are many options you can avail of that provide reliable connectivity.
Below are some of the top choices to consider:
1. Fixed Wireless Internet
Mobile connectivity is available all across the USA. You are likely to be in the range of a cell tower, even in rural regions.
As a result, you can connect to 4G or 5G mobile networks to enjoy fast internet speeds.
However, fixed wireless needs a router to be installed in your home or building. It maintains a clear line of sight with the nearest mobile tower.
Based on your plan, you can access 4G or 5G speeds of several hundred MBs. A 5G connection can even help you attain speeds of 100 Mbps.
Best of all, you can choose unlimited plans with adequate data caps. They are ideal for home use for most people.
Additionally, business solutions are available for entrepreneurs and rural companies.
2. DSL/ADSL Broadband
Some of you may have used a DSL or ADSL connection over your landline phones. They use telephone lines and infrastructure to connect you to the internet.
DSL is the cheapest option when it comes to prices. You can also enjoy a steady connection, as the network is wired.
ADSL compromises upload speed for a higher download speed. However, the average speed for common connections is up to 3 Mbps.
Therefore, DSL is slower compared to fixed wireless or wireless internet.
3. Wireless Internet
Wireless internet uses a wireless router to connect to cell towers. You can purchase a 4G or a 5G router and install it in your van or boat for connectivity on the go.
Wireless internet is faster than mobile internet as it uses a dedicated router. You get much better speeds compared to using your phone’s hotspot.
Most importantly, you can set up a home network and connect several devices.
Wireless routers can connect to signals from nearby towers. They switch towers as you travel to offer a steady connection and speed.
You may be able to enjoy speeds of 80 Mbps if you are closer to a tower. However, it may fall to 1 Mbps when you are the furthest from the source of the signal.
Wireless internet is best for people who travel through remote areas frequently.
4. Satellite Internet
Satellite internet is the last option to access somewhat fast internet. The signal comes from satellites in space and is received by a device in your home.
You may be able to get speeds of up to 30 Mbps in the best possible scenarios. However, various factors like weather disturbances can hamper the performance of satellite internet.
Moreover, the prices are quite high, and you generally don’t get unlimited plans.
Final Thoughts
Availability is the top factor that decides if you get high-speed internet in rural areas. You can avail of broadband and fiber optic connections if ISPs cover your region. Else, the best option is fixed wireless internet that harnesses 4G or 5G speeds. You can stream videos, play games, and work remotely without disruptions. Wireless internet is suitable for people who travel frequently and stay at different remote locations.
