Noteworthy Trends in Internet Services This Year

In the past three decades, the internet has come a long way from sharing data between institutions to delivering a connected and immersive digital experience to users around the globe. As the dynamics of the market keep changing, internet services continue to evolve. The COVID-19 pandemic has also been a catalyst for changes in the broadband industry, along with the emergence of new technologies and U.S government-sponsored programs. In this article, we take a closer look at some of the top trends in internet services in 2023.

Retiring DSL

Since the pandemic began, remote workers have developed a reliance on the internet. That’s one of the reasons DSL is becoming obsolete: Older technology doesn’t meet the demand of today’s internet users.

A few internet service providers (ISPs) have already announced that they will no longer accept new digital subscriber line (DSL) customers. That includes AT&T, which is focusing on expanding its high-speed technology, such as fiber. In light of the demand for faster internet, major internet providers are replacing DSL copper wires with coaxial or fiber-optic cables. The change in landline infrastructure heralds the end of DSL.

AT&T and Verizon High Speed Internet are notable ISPs that phased out DSL service, which could be a major issue for customers in areas without high-speed internet options. Not only is DSL widely available, but it’s also the most affordable option.

If you’re currently a DSL customer, you may have to switch to another internet connection type. You can check internet coverage in your area to narrow down your search.

Advanced Customer Support

The COVID-19 pandemic, broadband infrastructure legislation, and other external factors had a significant impact on the industry in 2021. One challenge of these changes is the growing need for customer support to handle the high volume of complaints and technology issues.

In 2023, ISPs have focused on developing advanced tools that support this surge. They’ve shifted toward self-service and virtual and app device emulators to address and resolve customers’ needs.

The remote environment of the past couple years also meant ISPs needed to develop customer-service tools that didn’t rely on access to physical devices or applications. Advanced technology has enabled platform-based solutions to make customer service more efficient and accessible for internet users and customer-service agents.

Fiber on the Rise

Fiber internet services aren’t a new phenomenon. The world has finally caught up to the idea that fast internet is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. Investors are funding more fiber internet infrastructure and government-funded programs and initiatives are closer to bridging the digital divide. Fiber is available to residents and businesses, with separate internet plans and features. Several ISPs, including Verizon Fios and Google Fiber, are ramping up fiber expansion in 2023 and beyond.

5G Home Internet

5G technology is the next generation of mobile service, but its impressive speeds, extremely low latency, and growing coverage make it equally appealing as a residential internet service. By using their own 5G networks, a few ISPs have successfully deployed their 5G home internet service. Although 5G home internet is faster than satellite and DSL, it’s still less reliable and slower than cable and fiber.

Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Starry Internet are the top 5G home internet service providers. Attractive features of 5G home internet plans include affordable prices, no equipment fees, no contracts, and no data caps.

Expansion of Rural Internet

ISPs are aggressively expanding internet connectivity in rural areas, especially for fiber service. One of the reasons high speed internet in rural areas is so important is that more people are leaving expensive urban cities to work remotely from cheaper rural areas. With fast and reliable internet, rural residents can minimize social and work isolation.