Table of Contents
Top 10 Rockford Internet Providers
| Providers | Speed | Starting Price | Type |
| Frontier | Up to 5000 Mbps | $49.99/mo. | DSL & Fiber |
| Xfinity | Up to 1200 Mbps | $29.99/mo. | Cable |
| Verizon | Up to 300 Mbps | $50.00/mo. | Fixed Wireless |
| T-Mobile | Up to 245 Mbps | $50.00/mo. | Fixed Wireless |
| Mediacom | Up to 1000 Mbps | $19.99/mo. | Cable |
| Rise Broadband | Up to 250 Mbps | $29.95/mo. | Fixed Wireless |
| AT&T | Up to 10 Mbps | $55.00/mo. | IPBB |
| HughesNet | Up to 25 Mbps | $64.99/mo. | Satellite |
| Viasat | Up to 150 Mbps | $69.99/mo. | Satellite |
| EarthLink | Up to 75 Mbps | $55.00/mo. | DSL |
Types of Internet Providers in Rockford, IL
Rockford is a city that marries natural beauty with industrial prowess. The city offers a smorgasbord of internet options, each with its own set of advantages and limitations. From the high-speed lanes of fiber-optic cables to the expansive reach of satellite networks, Rockford has it all. Let’s unpack the specifics.
Fiber Internet Providers in Rockford, IL
Fiber-optic internet is the pinnacle of high-speed connectivity in Rockford, IL. Fiber internet covers approximately 35% of the city and offers speeds that can reach a jaw-dropping 5,000 Mbps. The technology uses light photons to transmit data, offering high speed and reliability. This is ideal for heavy streaming, gaming, and even running server farms.
Frontier Fiber is the sole provider offering fiber internet service in Rockford, IL. It covers about 82% of the city, availing many locals of a superior internet service. It offers breathtaking maximum speed reaching up to 5,000 Mbps, setting a new benchmark in high-speed connectivity in the region.
| Fiber Internet Providers in Rockford, IL | |||
| Providers | Starting Price | Speed | Contact |
| Frontier | $60/mo | Up to 5,000 Mbps | Call Now |
Cable Internet Providers in Rockford, IL
Cable Internet is a staple in Rockford, covering nearly 90% of the city. With internet speeds reaching up to 1,200 Mbps, cable internet is both fast and widely accessible. Cable internet uses the same coaxial cable lines that deliver your TV service, making it a convenient and often less expensive option. It’s beneficial for households that bundle internet with cable TV and phone services.
Mediacom and Xfinity are at the forefront in delivering Cable service, intertwining high-speed internet with affordability. Potential subscribers would find an abundance of packages facilitating speeds up to a brisk 1,200 Mbps.
Fixed Wireless Internet Providers in Rockford, IL
Fixed wireless is the new kid on the block, covering about 60% of Rockford. Offering speeds up to 245 Mbps, it provides a solid and often more flexible alternative to traditional wired internet. It uses radio signals to transmit internet data, making it easier to deploy in less accessible areas.
Verizon, T-Mobile, and Rise Broadband are among the best fixed wireless internet providers in Rockford, IL. Aiming to cater to a broad audience, these providers have structured their services to start at competitive prices. (e.g. Rise Broadband starting at $29.95/mo) with offers of up to 250 Mbps.
DSL Internet Providers in Rockford, IL
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is one of the older forms of internet technology but still covers around 75% of Rockford. While it may not offer the blazing speeds of fiber or cable, with maximum speeds of up to 10 Mbps, it’s a reliable option for basic browsing and streaming. DSL is generally less expensive and quicker to install than other types of internet.
AT&T and Frontier are among the two leading DSL internet providers in Rockford, IL, ensuring a considerable part of the city can engage in basic browsing and streaming activities without a hitch. These DSL internet providers have situated themselves as reliable choices for many residents, presenting a service that tends to be more wallet-friendly and boasts a swift installation process.
Though the starting price points vary, reaching out to AT&T and Frontier would provide potential users with a clear picture of the affordable packages.
Satellite Internet Providers in Rockford, IL
Satellite internet is the last resort for those in extremely remote areas, but don’t underestimate it. Covering 100% of Rockford, satellite internet offers speeds up to 150 Mbps. While it may not be the fastest option, it’s often the only option for remote areas.
Viasat and HughesNet are the two satellite internet providers in Rockford, IL, that offer 100% coverage. However, one thing we all dislike is data caps, and unfortunately, both of them impose data caps on their plans.
Fastest Internet Provider in Rockford, IL
Who doesn’t want the fastest internet connection? Whether you’re a competitive gamer or someone who works from home, speed is often the deciding factor. But in Rockford, Frontier stands as the undisputed speed king, offering a staggering 5,000 Mbps through its fiber network. That’s right, 5,000 Mbps—that’s not a typo. Its exclusive service is available to approximately 82% of Rockford.
While other internet providers in Rockford, IL, like EarthLink Fiber, also offer high speeds, they don’t quite measure up to Frontier in terms of reliability and customer satisfaction. That’s why Frontier is in a league of its own.
Frontier’s high-speed fiber internet service starts at a competitive $60 per month. With every plan, you get a plethora of benefits:
- Unlimited Data
- Contract-Free Service
- Free WiFi 6e Gateway
- Free Expert Installation
Take a look at Frontier Internet plans that are available in Rockford, IL:
Cheapest Internet Provider in Rockford, IL
We all want the fastest speeds, but let’s be honest, we also want to keep our wallets happy. Rockford’s population is around 146,713 people, with a median household income of around $47,002. And the demand for reliable and economical internet service is high.
So, who takes the crown for the cheapest internet provider in Rockford, IL? Drumroll, please… It’s Mediacom. Yes, you heard it right! They offer the most budget-friendly plan in town.
With starting prices at a mere $19.99 per month, it’s a deal that’s hard to beat. But Mediacom covers only some points of Rockford. So, while it’s a fantastic option for those in its service area, what about the rest of the city?
That’s where Xfinity by Comcast comes into play. With a slightly higher starting price of $29.99 monthly, Xfinity offers a more extensive coverage area in Rockford. So, if Mediacom isn’t available in your neck of the woods, Xfinity serves as a reliable and affordable alternative.
| Cheapest Internet Provider in Rockford, IL | ||
| Provider | Mediacom | Xfinity |
| Plan | Internet 100 | Connect |
| Promo rate | $19.99 | $29.99 |
| Regular Price | $29.99 | $52 |
| Download Speed | 100Mbps | 75Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 10Mbps | 10Mbps |
| Service Type | Cable | Cable |
| Data cap | 200GB | 1.2TB |
While Mediacom offers an unbeatable price, its limited coverage means it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. On the other hand, Xfinity’s broader reach in the city makes it a viable option for many, even if it costs a few bucks more.
Best Low-income Internet Provider in Rockford, IL
Not everyone can afford high-speed, high-cost Internet plans. Around 20% of residents in cities like Rochester are affected by the digital divide. They can’t afford a high-speed broadband plan at home, which holds them back in their personal and professional goals. That’s where the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) comes into play. The ACP internet providers in Rockford, IL, aim to alleviate this issue, by offering a $30 monthly discount to eligible households.
The ACP is a groundbreaking initiative administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company with oversight from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It offers a monthly service discount of up to $30 on ACP provider’s plans.
Good news! All the internet providers we’ve discussed above—Frontier, Xfinity, Verizon, T-Mobile, Mediacom, Rise Broadband, AT&T, HughesNet, Viasat, and EarthLink—are participating in the ACP program. This means you have a variety of options to choose from based on your specific needs. By utilizing the ACP discount, you can reduce your monthly internet bill, sometimes even to zero dollars per month!
You can choose one of the listed ACP internet providers in Rockford, IL, that best suits your needs.
| ACP Internet Providers | Price after ACP |
| Frontier | Free |
| Xfinity | Free |
| Verizon | Free |
| T-Mobile | Free |
| Mediacom | Free |
| Rise Broadband | $15.00/mo. |
| AT&T | Free |
| HughesNet | $34.99/mo. |
| Viasat | $39.99/mo. |
| EarthLink | $24.95/mo. |
Alternative Ways to Get Low-Income Internet
While the ACP program is a fantastic resource, it’s not the only way to get affordable internet. Here are some other low-income internet options in Rockford, IL:
- Community Wi-Fi: Various communities and cities, including Rockford, have started offering free Wi-Fi in public spaces like libraries, parks, and community centers.
- Negotiation: Believe it or not, you can sometimes negotiate your way to a lower monthly bill. If you’ve been a loyal customer, companies are often willing to offer you a discount to keep your business.
- Bundling Services: Some providers offer discounted rates when you bundle internet with other services like phone and television. While this isn’t a low-income-specific option, it can reduce your overall monthly bills.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Organizations like EveryoneOn work to connect low-income families with affordable internet services and computers. They partner with various ISPs to offer discounted rates.
Availability of Rockford Internet Providers
So, you’re in Rockford, IL, and you’re wondering, “Which internet providers have got me covered?” After all, the best package won’t do you any good if it’s not available in your area.
In Rockford, IL, availability can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of internet—be it DSL (75%), cable (90%), or fiber-optic (35%)—and the specific infrastructure the provider has in place. For instance, rural areas might have fewer options compared to more urban locales. And let’s not forget some providers focus more on business internet, which might not be as widely available for residential areas.
Here’s a quick rundown of the coverage percentages for various providers in Rockford:
| Coverage of Internet Providers in Rockford, IL | |
| Providers | Coverage |
| Frontier | 82% |
| Xfinity | 97% |
| T-Mobile | 62% |
| Mediacom | 44% |
| Rise Broadband | 80% |
| AT&T | 50% |
| HughesNet | 100% |
| Viasat | 100% |
| EarthLink | 45% |
Generally, providers with higher coverage percentages are likely to offer more reliable services. So what does this mean for you? If you’re among the majority of Rockford residents covered by Frontier and Xfinity, you’re in a good spot. They offer the most extensive coverage in the city.
Best Rockford Internet Provider
So, you’ve made it this far, and you’re probably wondering, Who is the best internet provider in Rockford, IL? And the winner is… Frontier with 82% coverage in Rockford and speeds up to 5000 Mbps! Xfinity came in a close second place because of cable service.
Why Frontier? Well, it’s not just a random pick. Our team conducts regular tests on our own home internet networks and reaches out to folks in different areas to get a firsthand account of their experiences with various ISPs.
But if Frontier isn’t available in your specific area, you can get Xfinity by Comcast. With a whopping 97% coverage in Rockford, Xfinity is almost everywhere. While they may not offer the same fiber-optic speeds as Frontier.
And let’s not forget the other providers. Each has its own set of strengths. For instance, T-Mobile and Rise Broadband offer solid fixed wireless options, while HughesNet and Viasat provide 100% coverage with their satellite services. Mediacom and EarthLink may have lower coverage percentages, but they offer competitive pricing and are worth considering if they’re available in your area.
So there you have it. Frontier takes the top spot for the best internet provider in Rockford, IL.
FAQs
Rockford does offer fiber internet options. Frontier is one of the providers that offer fiber-optic services in the city, with speeds of up to 5,000 Mbps.
Xfinity takes the lead in coverage in Rockford with a whopping 97% availability rate across the city. This extensive coverage makes Xfinity a convenient and reliable choice for most residents. Whether they live in urban or suburban areas of Rockford.
The average download speed in Rockford is quite impressive at 186.0 Mbps. This is higher than the state average for Illinois, which stands at 144.0 Mbps. This higher-than-average speed benefits a range of online activities.
The average upload speed offered by internet providers in Rockford, IL, is 28.0 Mbps, which is slightly below the state average for Illinois at 39.0 Mbps. While it’s a bit lower, it’s still a decent speed for most online activities, including video conferencing and uploading large files.
The term “free internet” might be a bit misleading, but there are programs designed to make internet access more affordable for low-income households. One such initiative is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which offers discounted internet services to eligible families. Several internet providers in Rockford, IL, participate in this program, which can significantly reduce $30 monthly internet bills for qualified households.
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