Guide To Wireless Internet Providers

The hottest topic in broadband these days is wireless Internet. With the launch of new 4G LTE wireless networks by Verizon and AT&T in 2011, Americans can expect to see mobile broadband connections at speeds which can compete with DSL or cable. This guide will explain your options for getting a high speed wireless Internet provider in the United States.

Actually, there are many forms of wireless Internet connections, so in order to help you find what you need, we've divided this section up into three types of wireless Internet service - mobile Internet providers, wireless Internet for your home, and WiFi Internet providers:

• Mobile Internet Providers - This is what most people are looking for: wireless carriers that can provide broadband service to your mobile laptops, smartphones, or tablet PCs.
• Wireless Internet For Your Home - If you are looking for options other than DSL or cable, then check this section for fixed wireless Internet service providers.

Also, many people confuse satellite Internet with wireless, but that is a different type of Internet connection. Please visit our section on Satellite Internet Providers for information on ISPs that offer broadband Internet via satellite, including HughesNet and WildBlue.

Reviews Of Wireless Internet Providers In The U.S.

There are two main wireless Internet providers in the U.S., AT&T and Verizon. The other two major networks are Sprint and T-Mobile, but most people use the big two because they have the largest coverage areas and a head start on their 4G LTE networks. You can read reviews of each of these providers here, plus see what wireless deals they currently offer:

• AT&T Wireless Internet
• Verizon Wireless Internet
• Sprint Internet
• T-Mobile Internet

Another possibility is Clearwire, which mainly offers fixed home wireless Internet, but also offers mobile plans in most major U.S. cities. There is also a new player, LightSquared. They will offer modern 4G LTE wireless connectivity across the county, but their network is still in development. Expect to see a commercial launch from LightSquared sometime in 2012.

A couple other options exist in the form of small prepaid wireless Internet providers, such as Cricket, MetroPCS or LEAP Wireless. These companies are mainly discount mobile carriers with plans designed for casual data usage. Also, since they don't have the capital that companies like AT&T or Verizon do, the reach and speeds of their LTE networks are rather lacking.

Check our page on Wireless Providers for a complete list of all wireless Internet providers in the United States, plus information on 4G LTE wireless networks.

Where To Find Wireless Internet For Your Home

One type of ISP that you will see more of in the future is the WISP (wireless Internet service provider). These are typically local or regional providers that operate one or more communication towers. These wireless towers transmit Internet signals in a fashion similar to cell phone towers. WISPs are popular in rural areas where cable and DSL are not available.

• Nationwide WISPs - Right now (as of late-2011), the only WISP that operates nationwide is Clearwire. They operate in 110 markets. Clear Internet provides speeds that can compete with DSL and Cable, plus you get 4G mobile broadband access anywhere with their coverage area. They also have triple play bundles of home, mobile & voice.
• Regional & Local WISPs - If you are looking for local WISPs by state or county, the best database for that is the global directory located at the WISP Directory.

If you aren't sure what type of Internet service is available to your address, then we have a form which can check for you: search for Internet Providers By Zip Code. Or you can call our phone number (toll-free) to check on ISPs for you home or wireless Internet for mobile use.

Check For Mobile Broadband In Your Area - Call 1-877-476-0648

Our online form and phone reps will check your zip code, address, or phone number for DSL and cable, as well as satellite and wireless Internet providers.

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Richard Lee Thomason
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For more information on wireless Internet or other forms of High Speed Internet, please return to our home page and check our categories for cable, DSL, satellite and dial up.