Internet Service Providers in Charleston
Today, the internet is a regular utility like water or energy. While it may not be as dire a need, you’ll need a solid connection to get any work done or keep up with friends. If you’re moving to the Charleston, West Virginia, area, you’ll need to know more about internet service providers (ISPs) in Charleston.
Internet Providers Near Me in Charleston
As the capital of West Virginia and the unofficial cultural capital of Appalachia, Charleston hosts plenty of ISPs to choose from. Your options include:
- Optimum
- EarthLink
- Frontier
- Viasat
- Hughesnet
- T-Mobile
- Starlink
Remember, ISP coverage can be spotty. Depending on where you are in the city, you may not have access to all of these options — or you may have even more. You can go to an ISP’s website and enter your address to confirm whether you can use them at your address.
Cheapest Internet Providers in Charleston
You’ll need to compare prices to find the best internet service provider in Charleston. Here’s a look at the cheapest providers in Charleston, from least to most expensive:
- Optimum ($40/month)
- Hughesnet ($49.99/month)
- EarthLink ($59.95/month)
- T-Mobile ($60/month)
- Frontier ($64.99/month)
- Viasat ($64.99/month)
- Starlink ($120/month)
These prices reflect the most affordable plans from each provider. Consequently, you’ll have to pay more if you want more than the slowest speeds. It’s also worth noting that ISPs typically raise prices after a set period. Roughly half of Americans pay $60-$90 monthly for their internet, so use that as a baseline to compare rates.
High-Speed Internet Options in Charleston
Price is only part of the equation. Finding the best internet service provider in Charleston is also a matter of speed. Using the official standard of 25 megabits per second (Mbps), all ISPs in Charleston are technically high-speed.
The fastest internet speeds in Charleston come from Frontier and EarthLink, which offer up to 5 gigabits per second (Gbps). Optimum comes in second with 1-gig speeds.
Of course, advertised speeds and real-world results sometimes differ. Aim to get more than you think you’ll need and check your internet speed regularly to ensure you get what you pay for.
Does Charleston Have Fiber Internet?
The fastest download and upload speeds come from fiber internet. Charleston is lucky enough to have three fiber providers — Optimum, Frontier and EarthLink. Remember, not every plan from these ISPs has a fiber connection and not everyone they serve is in an area with fiber access.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Get Internet to Your House?
Fiber or not, internet access can get expensive. Plans with cable or fixed wireless connections are typically cheaper than fiber and satellite options, but even these can get pricey.
You can technically get internet access without a provider, which may be cheaper. The safest way is to use your phone’s mobile hotspot. While it won’t cost you more if you have an unlimited data plan, you may encounter extra charges if you don’t. Your speeds will be slow, too.
Alternatively, you could look for a nearby public Wi-Fi hotspot. However, this could make you vulnerable to evil twin attacks and likely isn’t a reliable connection. Usually, you’re better off accepting the higher prices of an actual ISP.
What Is the Best Internet Provider?
Finding the best internet service provider in Charleston ultimately depends on what you want and require from your connection.
Frontier is the best if you only need high speeds and reliability, but it can get expensive. Optimum has some of the best coverage in the area and is the most affordable. Hughesnet may be the way to go if you’re in a more rural area and need a cost-effective plan where other ISPs don’t reach you.
Learn About Internet Service Providers in Charleston to Make a Choice
Internet needs vary widely, so the “best” ISP depends on your requirements. Making the correct choice starts with learning what’s available to you. Consider your priorities and look into these ISPs with your specific address to make a sound decision.