Everything You Need to Know About Brightspeed (Especially for Prior CenturyLink Customers)
If your CenturyLink plan suddenly switched to Brightspeed, don’t panic. We’ll bring you up to speed on everything you need to know.
If you’re a former CenturyLink customer, you’ve likely seen your plan change to Brightspeed due to the buyout from its parent company, Lumen Technologies. Because of this change, you may be wondering what this transition means for you and your internet plan. There’s no need for concern — we’ve got the details covering major questions about Brightspeed and what you need to know about the transfer process.
What Is Brightspeed?
Brightspeed is a new internet service provider (ISP) founded in 2022 by three former Verizon CEOs. Formed through a $7.5 million agreement between Lumen Technologies, Inc. (the parent company behind CenturyLink) and Apollo Global Management, Brightspeed’s footprint is a combination of a portion of Lumen’s previous incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC) operations across 20 states in the Midwestern and Southeastern U.S. As one of the fastest-growing ISPs in the nation, Brightspeed is already the fifth-largest ILEC carrier. Based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, Brightspeed’s mission is to close the digital divide by offering internet and voice services to homes and businesses in these areas.
Does Brightspeed Offer the Same Internet Connections as CenturyLink?
Both Brightspeed and CenturyLink offer DSL and fiber internet services, while CenturyLink does offer some fixed wireless internet services. Customers transitioning to Brightspeed from CenturyLink shouldn’t have to worry about any significant changes with the type of internet they receive during the transition. That said, Brightspeed is currently constructing a more substantial fiber network in 17 states, so if your current connection is DSL, you could get access to fiber internet in the future.
What Are the Differences Between Brightspeed and CenturyLink?
Although Brightspeed and CenturyLink offer similar internet services and speeds, there are some subtle differences, especially considering price. Check out the table below to see Brightspeed and CenturyLink compared directly:
| Details | CenturyLink | Brightspeed |
|---|---|---|
| Internet types | DSL, fiber, fixed wireless | DSL, fiber |
| Download speeds (fiber) | Up to 940 Mbps | Up to 940 Mbps |
| Upload speeds (fiber) | Up to 940 Mbps | Up to 940 Mbps |
| Starting price | $50 per month | $50 per month |
| Phone service | Yes | Yes |
| TV service | No | No |
| Bundling options | No | No |
When Will My CenturyLink Plan Become a Brightspeed Plan?
Customers affected by this change should’ve seen their plan switch to Brightspeed by Oct. 3, 2022. Brightspeed sent these notifications in advance via email. If you haven’t received this notification yet, then you’re probably still part of the CenturyLink network.
Will I Experience Any Service Interruptions?
Since the transition has already occurred, you shouldn’t experience any service outages during your transition from CenturyLink to Brightspeed. Moreover, these types of service changes tend to happen during early morning hours, minimizing your interruptions.
Will I Have to Pay More for Brightspeed Internet?
While CenturyLink and Brightspeed do offer similar internet plans, Brightspeed Fiber Internet plan users may experience a slightly higher monthly charge. However, if you subscribe to digital voice services through Brightspeed, you can save on your monthly costs. Moreover, Brightspeed Fiber comes without a router or modem fee.
Do I Need New Equipment for My Brightspeed Plan?
Most CenturyLink internet equipment is compatible with Brightspeed’s internet plans. That said, if you have a much older modem, you may need a new replacement.
Will My Account Information Stay the Same?
Yes, you can still use all your CenturyLink login credentials to access your Brightspeed account. You will still have access to similar services offered by CenturyLink.
What if I Don’t Want a Brightspeed Internet Plan?
Customers affected by the transfer can’t opt out of the switch to Brightspeed from CenturyLink. You can always search for a new internet provider if you choose not to continue your service with Brightspeed.