Internet Service Providers in San Rafael, CA

Compare and Find the Best Internet Providers in San Rafael, CA

Today, consumers have several different options to consider for high-speed Internet, but not too long ago, the only option available was dialup. When shopping for an internet service, consumers can choose from DSL, cable, fiber-optic and satellite connections. With several services to consider, it can be difficult to find the best deal. The good news is that the market is filled with competition, which has resulted in lower prices and faster download speeds for customers. Many providers offer their services individually or as bundles, which can make things even more confusing for consumers.

With MyRatePlan, consumers can find the best deals for high-speed Internet in San Rafael, CA. MyRatePlan compares Internet services from many different providers and helps consumers narrow down the best options for their needs. We even have a tool that allows you to select services that are compatible with your existing TV or phone service. To get started with the tool, you must enter your ZIP code and begin your search.

For business owners, MyRatePlan makes it easy to search for business Internet providers. You can use our Internet speed test to check the speed of your existing connection and compare it with others. Since the tool doesn't use Flash or Java, it's compatible with all devices and takes just seconds to use.

Fiber Optic Providers in San Rafael, CA

Internet providers in San Rafael, CA may be offering the latest in digital technology in the form of fiber optic internet services. Fiber optic service providers offer TV, the internet, and phone services over an advanced fiber optic network that seems to function the same as a cable network to consumers. The notable differences between cable and fiber optic networks are the increased speed. If you're interested in fiber optic network providers, look into “FiOS” services in your local area.

DSL Internet Services in San Rafael, CA

Also called a digital subscriber line, DSL is another popular Internet service, and it's quite popular in San Rafael, CA. 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 San Rafael, CA, 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 San Rafael, CA

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 San Rafael, CA and also let you know if there are other options available.