In today‘s digital age, having a fast and reliable internet connection is more important than ever. We rely on the internet for everything from streaming movies and music, to working from home, attending virtual classes, video chatting with loved ones, gaming online with friends, and so much more. For residents of Abilene, Texas, there are a variety of internet providers and plans to choose from. But with so many options, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your household.
To help you navigate the process, we‘ve put together this comprehensive guide to internet providers in Abilene. We‘ll break down the different types of internet connections available, provide detailed information on the top providers and plans, and offer tips for choosing the optimal internet service to meet your needs and budget. Let‘s get started!
Types of Internet Connections in Abilene
Before we dive into the specific providers, it‘s helpful to understand the different types of internet connections you‘ll come across in Abilene:
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line): DSL internet operates over telephone lines and is widely available, including in many rural areas. Speeds typically range from 1-100 Mbps. The further you are from the provider‘s central hub, the slower your connection will be.
Cable: Cable internet is delivered via coaxial cables, the same ones used for cable TV service. It offers speeds up to 1000 Mbps. However, you share bandwidth with neighbors, so speeds may slow during peak usage times.
Fiber: Fiber-optic internet provides the fastest speeds, up to 2000 Mbps in some areas, via thin strands of glass that transmit data using light. It‘s extremely reliable but has limited availability.
Satellite: Satellite internet is available virtually everywhere, making it a good choice for rural areas. Data is transmitted to and from a satellite dish. Speeds range from 12-100 Mbps, but latency is high due to the distance signals must travel.
Fixed Wireless: Fixed wireless internet delivers service from a central tower to an antenna mounted on your home. Speeds can reach up to 1000 Mbps. It requires line of sight to the tower so obstructions like trees or buildings may impact service.
Now that you have an understanding of the different internet connection types, let‘s explore the top providers in Abilene and the plans they offer.
Internet Providers in Abilene, TX
AT&T
AT&T is one of the largest DSL and fiber-optic internet providers in Abilene with wide coverage across the city. Their DSL service is available to over 90% of Abilene and offers speeds up to 100 Mbps. AT&T Fiber reaches about 10% of the city with speeds up to 940 Mbps.
AT&T Internet Plans:
- Internet Basic 5: $45/mo, 5 Mbps, 1 TB data cap
- Internet 10-100: $35-$60/mo, 10-100 Mbps, 1 TB data cap
- Internet 1000 (fiber): $70/mo, 940 Mbps, unlimited data
All AT&T plans require a 12-month agreement and include a $10/mo equipment fee. Their gateway modem/router offers Wi-Fi 6 technology. AT&T also provides security features like Internet Security and Parental Controls for an added fee.
Suddenlink
Suddenlink is the main cable internet provider in Abilene, with service available to nearly all households. They offer speeds ranging from 50 Mbps up to 1 Gig.
Suddenlink Internet Plans
- Internet 200: $35/mo, up to 200 Mbps
- Internet 400: $50/mo, up to 400 Mbps
- Internet 1 Gig: $75/mo, up to 940 Mbps
All plans come with a free Wi-Fi router, no data caps, and no annual contract required. Suddenlink also offers its Altice One entertainment platform that integrates streaming apps, cable TV, and more.
Rise Broadband
Rise Broadband is the largest fixed wireless internet provider in Abilene, offering coverage to most of the city. With speeds up to 50 Mbps, it‘s a good option for light internet users.
Rise Broadband Internet Plans
- Rise 15: $35-55/mo, 15 Mbps
- Rise 25: $45-65/mo, 25 Mbps
- Rise 50: $55-75/mo, 50 Mbps
Plans require a minimum 12-month contract. Pricing varies based on location. The equipment lease fee is $10-13/mo. There is a 250 GB/mo data cap with a $5 fee for each 10 GB over.
Taylor Telecom
Taylor Telecom offers DSL internet to a limited area in south Abilene, covering about 15% of the city. Their DSL speeds range from 1.5-100 Mbps.
Taylor Telecom Internet Plans
- DSL 1.5: $27/mo, 1.5 Mbps
- DSL 7: $47/mo, 7 Mbps
- DSL 12: $47/mo, 12 Mbps
- DSL 25: $57/mo, 25 Mbps
- DSL 40: $62/mo, 40 Mbps
- DSL 100: $67/mo, 100 Mbps
A one-year contract is required for service. The equipment lease fee is $6/mo. A $50 installation fee may apply.
Earthlink
Earthlink is an internet provider that utilizes existing DSL and fiber-optic networks in Abilene to deliver service. Speeds range from 3-1000 Mbps.
Earthlink Internet Plans
- HyperLink 3: $35/mo, 3 Mbps
- HyperLink 50: $50/mo, up to 50 Mbps
- HyperLink 100: $65/mo, up to 100 Mbps
- HyperLink 1 Gig: $100/mo, up to 1000 Mbps
All plans include a free Wi-Fi router and come with no data caps. Modem rental fees are $7/mo. A 12-month contract is required.
Viasat
For those in rural areas outside of Abilene, Viasat satellite internet may be one of the only options available. The provider offers coverage to nearly any area with speeds up to 100 Mbps. However, latency is much higher compared to other connection types.
Viasat Internet Plans
- Unlimited Bronze 12: $70/mo, 12 Mbps
- Unlimited Silver 25: $100/mo, 25 Mbps
- Unlimited Gold 50: $150/mo, 50 Mbps
- Unlimited Platinum 100: $200/mo, 100 Mbps
All plans come with unlimited data but have soft data caps after which speeds may be slowed during network congestion. They require a 2-year contract. Equipment costs $13/mo or a $300 one-time purchase.
How to Choose the Best Internet Provider in Abilene
With all the internet options available in Abilene, how do you go about choosing the right provider and plan for your household? Here are some factors to consider:
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Availability – First and foremost, you need to find out which providers and connection types are available at your address. Check provider websites or give them a call to confirm serviceability.
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Speed – Think about how you use the internet and how many connected devices you have. For a small household of light internet users, 25 Mbps may suffice. But heavy users and larger families may need 100+ Mbps speeds.
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Price – Internet plans in Abilene range from around $35 to over $100 per month. Establish your monthly budget for internet service. Keep in mind that faster speeds will come at a higher cost.
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Data Caps – Some providers enforce monthly data caps while others offer unlimited data. Consider your typical monthly data usage and opt for a plan that will accommodate your needs.
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Contract – Many plans require a 1-2 year contract. Others may be contract-free or offer a month-to-month option. Think about your living situation and decide which works best for you.
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Equipment Fees – Most providers charge an extra $10-15/mo to lease a router or modem. You can often avoid this fee by purchasing your own compatible equipment.
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Bundle Deals – If you‘re also in the market for TV or phone service, bundling with your internet plan could provide cost savings. Compare bundle prices and features.
Taking the time to research your options and carefully consider your needs will help you select the optimal internet plan and provider. Don‘t hesitate to call and speak with representatives from different ISPs to get your questions answered before making a decision.
The Future of Internet Service in Abilene
As the need for faster, more reliable internet continues to grow, ISPs are making investments to upgrade their networks in Abilene.
Within the next few years, the availability of fiber internet in the city is set to increase significantly. AT&T has plans to expand its fiber network, while Abilene Fiber, a new fiber provider, will soon enter the market.
5G wireless home internet is also on the horizon. AT&T and Verizon have been launching 5G internet in major cities across the US, providing speeds in the 1000 Mbps range. As 5G network coverage grows, this new form of internet access will likely come to Abilene.
With further expansion of fiber networks and the advent of 5G internet, residents of Abilene can look forward to even more high-speed connectivity options in the not-too-distant future. This is great news for households with ever-increasing internet needs.
FAQ
What is the cheapest internet provider in Abilene?
The most affordable internet plans in Abilene start around $35-45/mo and are offered by providers like AT&T, Suddenlink, and Rise Broadband. Keep in mind that the lowest priced plans typically come with slower speeds.
How can I get free internet in Abilene?
Currently, there are no internet providers offering free service in Abilene. However, some ISPs participate in the FCC‘s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) which provides a discount of up to $30/mo on internet service for eligible low-income households. Visit the ACP website to see if you qualify.
Who offers the fastest internet speeds in Abilene?
Currently, AT&T Fiber and Suddenlink provide the fastest internet speeds in Abilene, with Gig plans offering speeds up to 940 Mbps. Actual speeds may vary by location.
Is fiber internet available in Abilene?
Yes, AT&T Fiber is available to over 10% of Abilene households. You can check availability at your address on the AT&T website. Additional fiber providers, like Abilene Fiber, are slated to start offering service in the city soon.
What is the best internet for gaming in Abilene?
For the best gaming experience, opt for a fiber or cable internet plan with speeds of at least 300 Mbps and unlimited data. AT&T Fiber or Suddenlink‘s Internet 400 or 1 Gig plans would be ideal for gaming in Abilene.
Can I get internet with no contract in Abilene?
Yes, some providers like Suddenlink and Rise Broadband offer no-contract, month-to-month internet plans in Abilene. No-contract plans provide flexibility but may come with higher monthly prices compared to contract plans.
With this guide in hand, you‘re now equipped with the knowledge needed to choose the best internet service for your Abilene household. Take your time weighing the factors that matter most to you, from speed and price to contracts and data caps. Here‘s to finding an internet plan that will keep you connected without breaking the bank!
