Internet Service Providers in Cranston
Cranston is scattered with residential areas, bars, restaurants, coffee shops and shopping centers. It’s an excellent place for twenty-somethings, families and retirees, but you’ll need WiFi if you’re new to the area or feel like going online for the first time. The internet service providers in Cranston range from DSL to satellite to high-speed fiber optic cables.
Internet Providers Near Me in Cranston
Finding internet providers near you shouldn’t be too complex. Options for internet providers in Cranston, Rhode Island include the following top options:
- Earthlink
- Cox Communications
- Verizon Home Internet
- Hughesnet
- Viasat
- Crown Castle
You also have satellite options should none of those meet your needs.
Cheapest Internet Providers in Cranston
Internet in Cranston is similar to other areas on the Eastern seaboard, including Virginia. The companies offer rates based on zip codes. After research on each provider’s site, here are the costs for internet in Cranston at their lowest prices:
- Verizon Home Internet: $24.99/month
- Hughesnet: $49.99/month
- Cox Communications: $50.00/month
- Crown Castle: $64.50/month
- Viasat: $64.99/month
- Earthlink: $69.96/month
You can spend less by committing to 24 months with some services, but you’ll be tied in if something better or faster comes through your area. Rates vary, and some providers require setup fees or equipment rental.
High-Speed Internet Options in Cranston
When it comes to higher speeds, you’re much better off going with fiber than DSL or satellite. Both upload and download speeds are faster through fiber optic cables.
Your surest bet for the fastest speeds are Crown Castle and Cox Communications, as they run fiber through the area. Fiber cables tend to be quicker and can handle a higher load of users at the same time than some of the other options, such as DSL.
Upload speeds for satellite providers such as Hughesnet are going to be slower and have more lag time. Starlink is in most areas now and users report SpaceX’s alternative to the internet is fast with little lag time. You will pay more for setup and monthly fees but the reliability in rural areas may be worth the cost.
What County Is Cranston, Rhode Island In?
Cranston, Rhode Island is in Providence County. The city has under 100,000 residents, according to the most recent Census data. The entire county boasts a total of 657,288 residents. Some of the other cities located in the county include:
- Cumberland
- Lincoln
- Smithfield
- Burillville
- Woonsocket
- Central Falls
You’ll find the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park, Roger Williams National Memorial, Lincoln Woods State Park, Brown University, Providence Children’s Museum, Stephen Hopkins House and Lippitt House Museum.
Who Has the Best Home WiFi Service?
Who has the best home WiFi in Cranston, RI depends on what source you ask. Reviews vary on all the potential providers. Earthlink and Verizon Home Internet hit speeds up to 2,048 Mbps, while Cox Communications comes in a close second at 2,000 Mbps. Crown Castle has speeds around 1,000 Mbps.
Keep in mind when evaluating the different internet service providers in Cranston that reliability is also a factor. A service that goes out frequently doesn’t work very well. How many people are on a system can also slow speeds and result in more lag time.
Getting the Right Internet Service Providers in Cranston
Finding the right internet provider in Cranston, Rhode Island may take a bit of trial and error. Almost all those listed have a track record of reliability, so make a list of what you need for your family. Perhaps you need faster speeds for gaming or your remote work — or maybe you only need to get on and check emails.
Once you have an idea of what you need, it’s easier to narrow down your choices and select a provider based on price. As long as you aren’t tied into a lengthy contract, you can always switch if the first service doesn’t work as expected.