The internet service provider, Earthlink, started its operation in 1994 and is among the oldest companies of its kind in the United States. They have established their network over the last couple of decades and they currently provide wireless home internet service in selected markets across the country. But how effective is the firm’s wireless home internet? But, let me first describe what they have in detail to help us to determine whether or not it will suffice.
Speeds and Data Caps
Earthlink wireless home internet operates on 4G LTE technology. This can offer fairly quick connections but not as fast as a cable or fiber optic service to the internet. It can vary from 5 Mbps to 35 Mbps based on your location, time, network traffic, and other conditions. Upload speeds are generally slower than download, in the range of 2-10 Mbps.
Regarding data limits, most of the Earthlink wireless plans include free data, which is an advantage over some other wireless ISP providers. This means that overage charges and restricted data speeds do not have to be a worry for those who use high amounts of data each month for streaming, gaming, or downloading.
Availability and Coverage Area
The major issue with Earthlink’s wireless internet is that coverage is still fairly limited even today. It's only offered in parts of around a dozen states currently: Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont and West Virginia.
In the states that it is provided, coverage areas are limited to some cities and regions leaving the rural areas uncovered. Before signing up with Earthlink you’ll need to go to their website and use the zip code search tool that lets you know if they provide service in your area. Signal-interference properties of building materials can also affect indoor speeds, which can be different in different rooms.
Reliability Concerns
However, Earthlink internet, like any other internet service using cellular 4G LTE signals instead of actual cables, can also be unreliable for some customers. Wired connections are more reliable than signal strength as they may vary due to several factors. Downtime can occur occasionally, for instance, when the networks are unavailable or choked. Speeds may also reduce to a blunted pace during peak hours, particularly in the evening when everyone is watching movies from Netflix and YouTube.
Although those reliability problems are not encountered by every user, they are frequent enough according to some reviews. Thus while choosing Earthlink wireless internet connection one must bear in mind that it is not suitable if one needs very fast and reliable connections for instance; making video calls, gaming, or working from home. Telecommunications like cable, DSL, or fiber will offer stronger reliability than wired internet.
Equipment, Installation, and Customer Service
It does not take long to set up Earthlink wireless internet service as it is, as the name suggests, wireless. wireless. Cables do not have to be laid in the house, and there is no waiting for the technician to arrive. You just enroll online or through the telephone and you get from Earthlink Modem that has built-in wireless that has already been programmed with your user details. All it takes is plugging the router in and connecting computing devices to the networks the router transmits.
However, if any problems may arise concerning speed or connection after installation, Reviews of Earthlink’s customer and technical support are fairly ambivalent. Some customers describe their encounters as helpful, especially where they seek to get some issues resolved. Some have reported long holding times and agents who may not have adequate knowledge, or some agents who take more than one call or contact to solve the issue. So it is hit and miss when technical or account-related problems exist that affect your experience.
Pricing and Contracts
Earthlink wireless broadband services average at fifty dollars per month for the basic service plan which provides up to 10 Mbps. The faster plans with 20 Mbps and 35 Mbps are slightly above $60 and $70 respectively. With promotions like offering $10 per month less if you agree to a two-year contract, they provide incentives for longer contractual periods. In addition, there are equipment costs and regulatory taxes/fees over and above the quoted rates.
If you do opt for a contract length, nevertheless, make sure to read all the fine print details on early termination fees and any introductory pricing that skyrockets to higher regular monthly prices. However, the basic services and speeds themselves do not seem outrageously overpriced compared to other rural wireless ISPs.
Pros and Cons Overview
In summary, key advantages and disadvantages of choosing Earthlink's wireless home internet include.
Pros:
- Unlimited monthly data
- Non-binding agreements for services, although, can be tied to contracts for better rates.
- Fast setup without having to invite a home technician.
- Accessibility in areas where or other than through cable/DSL networks
Cons:
- The coverage of the 4G LTE network is inconsistent and may be patchy at certain locations and times.
- Places of depressed access in only a dozen states
- Inadequate customer service and complaint handling
- Decreased rural/suburban availability implies a complete absence in many urban contexts.
The Verdict
Thus, Earthlink can be one of the best rural wireless home internet providers IF it is available in your area and the 4G network offers sufficient signal coverage at your place. The unlimited data is especially beneficial for cord-cutters as they stream almost everything. However, for reliability issues and lack of coverage, Earthlink may be more useful in serving as a secondary internet connection rather than the primary source of home connectivity. Ensure that the address is served first, set the right speed and usage expectations, and secure lower prices using contract terms before subscribing.
Call (866) 240-0701 to get a new Earthlink connection now!
Read More:
How to Set Up Earthlink Internet?
Is Earthlink a Good Internet Service?
Is Earthlink Internet Satellite?
What are Earthlink Internet Prices?
