Fiber internet is considered the gold standard of broadband due to its speed capacity and reliability. However, it is the least available internet connection type due to the high cost of expanding fiber networks. National providers like AT&T Fiber, Verizon Fios, Frontier Fiber, Quantum Fiber, Google Fiber, Metronet, Kinetic Internet, Altafiber, Ziply Fiber, and Brightspeed Broadband offer the best chance for fiber internet coverage. These providers have the largest fiber-optic networks, with coverage in various states across the country.
AT&T Fiber is the largest fiber provider in the US, with coverage in the South, Midwest, California, and parts of Nevada. Verizon Fios is the second largest provider, serving the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions. Frontier Fiber has expanded its coverage to 29 states, primarily focusing on California, Florida, and Texas. Quantum Fiber is a leading provider mostly available west of the Mississippi River, in cities like Denver, Phoenix, and Seattle. Google Fiber has also been expanding its coverage, reaching new cities like Atlanta and Kansas City.
Metronet serves Florida, North Carolina, and parts of the Midwest, while Kinetic Internet has coverage in 18 states, with a focus on suburban and rural areas. Altafiber is limited to the Cincinnati metro area and nearby regions in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Ziply Fiber caters to suburban and rural areas in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Brightspeed Broadband, a new ISP, offers coverage in several markets, including Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
Some cable-first providers, like Astound Broadband, Cox Communications, Optimum, Spectrum, and Xfinity, are incorporating fiber connections into their networks to keep up with industry demands. Finding fiber internet in your area may be challenging, as deployment of fiber lines is costly and typically occurs in areas with high population density. ISPs with fiber products in their names or boasting “fiber-rich” connections are likely providers of fiber internet.
While fiber internet has a faster speed potential and superior reliability compared to 5G internet, the latter is more likely to be available due to its wireless delivery method. However, if given the choice between the two, fiber internet is recommended for its higher speeds and better reliability. Availability of fiber internet is improving, with providers expanding their networks and increasing coverage across the country. Residents can check with local ISPs or sign up for notifications to stay informed about when fiber internet might become available in their area.
