BroadbandNow is proud to announce the continuation of our annual awards program, recognizing excellent service and quality among Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across the United States. Also, for the first time, we have a new category recognizing achievements in digital equity and inclusion (application required).
In an increasingly connected world, access to reliable and affordable internet service has become a necessity. The BroadbandNow awards program aims to highlight the dedication and innovation demonstrated by ISPs that go above and beyond in meeting the needs of their customers. By shining a spotlight on these providers, we hope to encourage continued investment in infrastructure, technology, and customer service, ultimately benefiting consumers across the country.
About Us: BroadbandNow is the leading consumer resource for broadband information, with the broadest data set of internet coverage, speed and prices in the United States. Tens of millions of consumers use BroadbandNow each year to find and compare local internet service providers. Our commitment is to aggregate and validate data for all 2,000 U.S.-based ISPs.
This year’s awards will recognize ISPs in several categories, including:
For most of these categories, we’ve organized providers by their relative size. We used the following metrics to determine where to place each provider:
Fastest Real-World Speeds
The Fastest Real-World Speed award recognizes ISPs that consistently deliver lightning-fast, reliable internet connections to their customers. These trailblazing providers leverage cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to push the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring that consumers across the United States can enjoy seamless streaming, quick downloads, and uninterrupted online experiences.
Winners of this award have demonstrated operational excellence and a commitment to innovation. By continually investing in network upgrades, they bring the broadband connectivity of tomorrow to communities nationwide. These exceptional ISPs set the standard for the industry and drive the advancement of broadband technology, shaping the future of internet connectivity in the United States.
Award Winners: Regional Providers
Award Winners: National Providers
Methodology
Our Fastest Real-World Speed category was determined using a mix of data from M-Labs and speed tests run through our own proprietary data validation system. Using this method allows us to remove “repeat” and “suspect” tests. This also helps us confirm each test was run on a particular provider’s network, ensuring the most accurate results possible.
Most Affordable Plans
The Most Affordable Plans award recognizes ISPs that offer low-cost internet options to consumers, ensuring that broadband accessibility remains within reach for all. These forward-thinking providers understand that affordable connectivity is vital to bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth in communities across the United States.
Winners of this award have demonstrated a strong commitment to providing cost-effective plans without compromising on quality. By offering a range of speed tiers at competitive prices, these ISPs enable more households to access the benefits of reliable internet connectivity. Their dedication to affordability plays a crucial role in promoting digital inclusion and empowering individuals to participate fully in our increasingly connected society.
Affordable Award Winners: Local Providers
Affordable Award Winners: Regional Providers
Affordable Award Winners: National Providers
Methodology
For this category, we broke down the most affordable service packages at the national level, as well as across various technology types (fiber, DSL, cable, etc). We awarded providers at four different speed tiers:
- Broadband Internet: 25 Mbps – 99.9 Mbps
- High Speed Internet: 100 Mbps – 249.9 Mbps
- Ultra High Speed Internet: 250 Mbps – 949.9 Mbps
- Gig Speed Internet: 950+ Mbps
For each tier, we looked at the providers offering the lowest-priced plans relative to each speed tier.
Most Significant Fiber Expansion
The Most Significant Fiber Expansion award celebrates ISPs that have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to deploying cutting-edge fiber-optic networks. These visionary providers understand that fiber infrastructure is the backbone of the digital future, offering unparalleled speed, reliability, and scalability.
Winners of this award have made substantial investments in building out next-generation fiber networks, overcoming deployment challenges. By bringing fiber connectivity to more homes and businesses, these ISPs enhance the online experience for their customers and lay the foundation for future technological advancements.
Fiber Winners: Local Providers
Fiber Winners: Regional Providers
Fiber Winners: National Providers
Methodology
Fiber Expansion awards were given based upon the FCC’s Deployment data, which is a reporting mechanism that providers use to declare where they do and do not offer internet service. For this year’s awards, we have compared fiber expansion increases from April 2023 – April 2024 (encompassing the last two major updates).
Announcing the 2024 Digital Inclusion Awards
We are thrilled to introduce a new addition to our awards program: the Digital Inclusion Awards. These awards recognize providers who are at the forefront of closing the digital divide in the United States through disruptive technologies, innovative approaches, and community-focused initiatives.
The Digital Inclusion Awards celebrate ISPs that go above and beyond in their efforts to bring affordable, reliable, and high-quality internet access to underserved and unserved communities. These forward-thinking providers are tackling the digital divide head-on, implementing groundbreaking strategies to ensure that every American, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, can harness the power of connectivity.
Unlike our other awards, the Digital Inclusion Awards will be application-based. We invite providers who are spearheading digital inclusion efforts to submit their applications and share their inspiring stories with us. To apply, please click on the link below:
By showcasing the exceptional work of these providers, we aim to inspire others in the industry to prioritize digital inclusion and work together to build a more connected, equitable future for all.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be recognized for your commitment to bridging the digital divide. Apply now and join us in celebrating the leaders who are making a lasting impact on communities across the nation.