1-866-224-5506How to Get Internet in Rural Areas
Living in the countryside has many benefits; Internet access, however, is usually not one of them. Internet access in rural areas ─ where DSL, cable Internet, broadband and T1 lines are not available ─ can be a challenge. Or maybe it’s really a simple decision, because there are so few choices.
“Rural Internet” is often used when referring to the options for Internet access in rural areas. The three options are dial-up, wireless and satellite.
Dial-up
Dial-up uses the phone line and its main drawback is speed, or lack thereof. With today’s sophisticated websites, pages can take what seems like an eternity to load, and emails with large files may literally take hours. However, if basic email communication is the bulk of your online time, then dial-up can make Internet access in rural areas happen. Look at our dial-up page to compare plans and prices.
EDVO Wireless Technology
Evolution Data-Optimized (EVDO) modems is a rural Internet option that taps into broadband wireless technology, with broadband speed performance most of the time. Check with the cellular phone carriers in your area for the EVDO setup, its costs, limitations, and speeds.
Mobile Broadband Internet Connection (Air Cards)
Air Cards provide portable Internet access if you have access to a provider’s cellular network from your location. If your cell phone has coverage, then a mobile broadband Internet connection from your cell phone provider should work for your computer. You simply plug in the USB modem or PC card. Note that you can also create a wireless network by installing an Intelligent Mobile Hotspot that taps into the cellular network and allows several wi-fi enabled devices to connect simultaneously.
Satellite Internet
If you can install the dish with a southern facing, unobstructed view, then satellite Internet may be the solution. Speeds vary by pricing and plans and latency and usage thresholds can be an issue. Learn more with our quick tutorial on How Satellite Internet Works and review providers and plans using the “Savings Widget” above.
While these options may seem limited, Internet access in rural areas is improving. The Wi-Max network (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is continuing to be developed and rolled out; and Verizon and AT&T are developing a new high speed 4G wireless networks based on a technology called “Long Term Evolution,” or LTE.
