Fixed Wireless Internet Providers

Fixed Wireless Internet Providers in the USA

Fixed Wireless providers are often significantly smaller than the large cable and DSL corporations. They are commonly started by local residents who are frustrated by slow speeds or limited service in their area.

In many cases, the local fixed wireless broadband provider will lease a fiber line from a larger provider and essentially resell service over their own last-mile infrastructure.

The main challenge for getting fixed wireless service is that the customer has to have line-of-sight with the tower or roof that is broadcasting connectivity nearest to them. This means customers will need to have roof access, or be close enough to get it through a window.

For more information on the technical specs of fixed wireless internet, see our technical guide to Fixed Wireless Internet service.

What is fixed wireless internet?

Fixed wireless internet is a fast-growing internet service that uses stationary wireless access points to “beam” connectivity directly to consumer households. While it doesn’t use a physical wire like fiber or cable, it is often able to achieve similar speeds anywhere from 3-1000 Mbps.

Who offers fixed wireless internet?

Currently there are 1,572 fixed wireless providers in the US, with a nationwide coverage of roughly 51 percent.

Rise Broadband Fixed Wireless

Rise Broadband is currently the largest fixed wireless provider in the US, servicing 19 states and 3,700 zip codes nationwide. Known as an alternative for cable internet, Rise Broadband is most available in Texas, Illinois, and Colorado, with their fastest speeds being offered in Illinois.

King Street Fixed Wireless

The second largest fixed wireless provider in the US, King Street Wireless currently services 24 states. Their coverage is mostly in concentrated pockets spread across the US, with the greatest coverage being in Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana.

Etheric Networks Fixed Wireless

Etheric Networks is focused in the Bay Area in California and services 239 zip codes within the state. Depending on the plan, they offer 15-100 Mbps and varying data caps. Etheric Networks fixed wireless internet is able to stay connected when power goes out due to their fiber backbone, making it a reliable internet option for Northern California residents.

Starry Internet Fixed Wireless

Starry Internet currently services 6 states with their greatest coverage in California and New York. They offer one of the fastest, lowest-priced fixed wireless services in the US, with speeds up to 200 Mbps for $50/month.

NextLink Fixed Wireless

NextLink is the fifth largest fixed wireless internet provider in the US, however it is the largest fixed wireless internet provider for the midwest. An estimated 4.7 million people in Texas, Nebraska, and Omaha have access to NextLink internet.

Pros and Cons of Fixed Wireless Internet

Is Fixed Wireless the Best Type of Rural internet?

Fixed wireless, DSL, and satellite offer the widest coverage in the US. Their broad availability and technology are able to connect rural areas with high-speed internet service.

Fixed Wireless vs. Satellite Internet

Despite using different technologies, fixed wireless and satellite internet share some similarities. For example, both types of internet require line-of-sight and could be affected by weather conditions.

Fixed wireless internet does offer higher speeds and lower latency, however it could be more expensive than satellite plans. Choosing between the two often comes down to availability, price, and desired speeds.

Fixed Wireless vs. DSL Internet

Fixed wireless internet speeds are comparable to DSL with speeds averaging between 5-50 Mbps. While DSL doesn’t require line-of-sight like fixed wireless does, optimum service requires customers to be relatively close to the provider’s offices. With that said, DSL does tend to be cheaper than fixed wireless. Speed and price are the main deciding factors when these two options are available.