Internet Service Providers in Columbia, KY

Selecting the Best Internet Service Provider in Columbia, KY

A full understanding of available Internet service providers (ISPs) in an area ensures a consumer will find the lowest rate for service, select the provider with the best service reputation, and choose the most appropriate type of service for the home. The following paragraphs feature valuable information about satellite Internet, digital subscriber line (DSL), and cable Internet options in Columbia, KY, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each Internet access type.

Consumers today may choose from many different types of Internet services; however, each region may not feature access from absolutely every major service provider. Examining the benefits of each carrier in a given city will aid a consumer who wishes to find an affordable service that also provides reliable service and fast upload and download speeds. The option to bundle Internet service with cable television and telephone service can make things somewhat complex.

MyRatePlan is an ideal option for consumers who wish to compare many facets of high-speed Internet service in Columbia, KY. By examining the options for every cable, DSL, and satellite high-speed Internet service provider, a consumer can choose the best combination of services at the most affordable price. Try a search by entering a ZIP code into the comparison tool above.

Business owners interested in selecting the best Internet service provider for business will want to head to the business section at MyRatePlan. Speed checks are also available through the MyRatePlan Internet Speed Test. Access the tool on any device. The test doesn't require Java or Flash so a user can test his or her Internet speed on anything from a smartphone to a desktop computer.

Fiber Optic Internet Service Providers in Columbia, KY

Some of the most advanced and newest Internet technologies are being provided over fiber optic services. In Columbia, KY, customers can find fiber optic providers with Internet, television and phone options. Fiber optic Internet functions much akin to cable service. However, in many areas, fiber optic Internet is even faster. Some fiber optic services are labeled "FiOS." MyRatePlan can help you to review these options in comparison with each other and additional types of Internet services.

DSL Internet Services in Columbia, KY

Also called a digital subscriber line, DSL is another popular Internet service, and it's quite popular in Columbia, KY. DSL uses an analog telephone line and gives customers access to the extra bandwidth within the lines. The same frequency that is used to transmit telephone calls can be used for DSL Internet service. For this connection to work, the customer must have a DSL modem in their home. One end of the modem is connected to a service provider through the phone lines, and the other end is connected to the customer's computer. With this connection, the customer can access the Internet. For a comparison of the different DSL providers in Columbia, KY, MyRatePlan can help.

The main reason why DSL service is possible is because phone calls use minimal bandwidth. DSL Internet service uses the leftover bandwidth in the phone lines and allows users to connect to the Internet. One of the top reasons why many consumers choose DSL is because it offers a dedicated line. DSL customers aren't forced to share their Internet connection with other customers, and they can even make calls while using the Internet. Depending on the area, DSL might be faster than cable. The downside of choosing DSL Internet is the reduced connection speed, which occurs when a customer is a long distance away from the nearest provider.

While more and more of the PSTN system is being digitized, there is still always the last bit of a connection between a local office and the receiving phone number that's owned and operated by a company who can charge what they want for connecting your call. What's more is that as your calls extend geographically to longer and longer distances, there are more ‘pit stops' where the call is connected and patched through to achieve longer distances - each of which can significantly increase the cost of the call.

Compare Satellite Internet Providers in Columbia, KY

Satellite Internet service beams Internet data through the air using satellites. While this may seem like the technology of the future, satellite Internet is far behind most wire-based Internet connections in terms of speed, latency (around 200 to 600 millisecond response time), and reliability. This is because it takes much less effort for your computer to talk through a traditional cable than to transmit data through a satellite dish to a satellite in outer space and then back to earth. It is because of this dedicated equipment that satellite Internet will usually be the most expensive Internet option, and is often metered in how much data you can use each month. However, satellite may be the only option for receiving Internet service in some very remote locations.

Satellite isn't a very popular option for Internet service in most areas as there are plenty of wire-based providers usually. However, customers living in rural areas who already have a satellite dish may find satellite Internet to be a viable option. If you do not have a satellite dish, you will be required to purchase and install an equator-facing dish. MyRatePlan can help you to find satellite providers in Columbia, KY and also let you know if there are other options available.