Living in a rural area brings numerous benefits, such as beautiful landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and a close-knit community. However, one challenge that rural residents often face is finding reliable and fast Internet service. Limited options and a lack of infrastructure can make it difficult for people in rural areas to stay connected. In this blog post, we will explore the three best Internet options for rural areas, discuss the differences between WiFi and Wireless Home Internet and provide tips on what to look out for when selecting Internet service in a rural area.
The Three Best Rural Internet Options
1. Fixed Wireless Internet
Fixed wireless Internet is a great option for rural areas that provides broadband speeds without cables or phone lines. This technology uses local topography and radio signals to transmit Internet data between an Internet service provider’s (ISP) access point and a small antenna installed at your home. Because fixed wireless Internet relies on line-of-sight between the access point and your home, it may not be available in areas with significant geographical obstacles, such as mountains or dense forests. But it can provide good speeds, and low ping.
2. Satellite Internet
Satellite Internet is one of rural areas’ most widely available options, as it does not rely on terrestrial infrastructure. Instead, satellite Internet uses a dish installed at your home to communicate with satellites orbiting the Earth. This allows for Internet access even in remote locations so long as there is a view to the southern horizon. Some issues involve slow speeds, high ping, and data caps.
3. DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Internet
DSL Internet is a type of broadband connection that uses existing telephone lines to deliver Internet service. While not as fast as cable or fiber-optic Internet, DSL can still provide sufficient speeds for most online activities, such as browsing, streaming, and video calls. DSL Internet may be available in rural areas than cable or fiber-optic options, as it utilizes existing infrastructure, but it is often old and may be disappearing as a viable option in many areas soon.
What’s the Difference Between WiFi and Wireless Home Internet?
WiFi and wireless home Internet are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different technologies. WiFi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the Internet without needing a wired connection -it’s the system within your home. On the other hand, wireless home Internet refers to the method by which your home receives its Internet connection from an ISP, such as through satellite, fixed wireless, or cellular networks.
In other words, wireless home Internet is how your home connects to the Internet, whereas WiFi is the technology that allows you to access the Internet wirelessly within your home.
What to Look Out for When Selecting Internet in a Rural Area
When choosing an Internet service for your rural home, consider the following factors:
1. Availability
Start by researching which rural Internet options are available in your area. You can use online tools or contact local providers to determine your options.
2. Speed
Determine the speed you need based on your household’s Internet usage habits or what your speed is currently at key points in time during the day with a speed test [LINK]. Streaming, gaming, and video calls require faster speeds than basic browsing and email.
3. Data Caps
Be aware of any data limits imposed by the provider, as exceeding these caps can result in high additional fees or reduced speeds.
4. Equipment and installation
Consider the costs of equipment, such as a satellite dish, antenna, and/or routers, as well as any installation fees.
Conclusion
Living in a rural area doesn’t have to mean sacrificing Internet access. With fixed wireless Internet, satellite Internet, and DSL Internet, residents of rural areas can access high-speed Internet just like their urban counterparts. When selecting Internet in a rural area, it’s important to consider availability, speed, data caps, and reliability to ensure you choose a provider that meets your needs.
Are you tired of slow or unreliable Internet in your rural area? Look no further than Conifer Communications, an Internet service provider for Tuolumne, Calaveras, Amador, Mariposa, Stanislaus & Merced Counties, and surrounding California communities. Contact us today to learn more about our rural Internet options and start enjoying fast and reliable Internet access!
