EarthLink Home Internet Review

In today’s digitally driven world, consistent and fast internet service is essential. EarthLink has established itself as a trustworthy name in the Internet Service Provider (ISP) industry, offering a range of plans that cater to both residential and business users. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, working from home or simply browsing the web, EarthLink’s dependable connection supports all digital activities. With a focus on customer service, no data caps and flexible plans, EarthLink is a strong contender for those seeking reliable internet. This in-depth review will help you determine if EarthLink is the right choice for your needs.

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9.8

9.8

12 Month Price Guarantee

Highlights
Fiber, satellite and wireless home internet provider
Wide availability—services customers in 48 states
Fiber plan is ultrafast fast, reliable and has no data caps
Satellite enables internet access in areas where Fios or home internet isn’t available
A+ rating on the Better Bureau Business

EarthLink 

Since its founding in 1994, EarthLink has been at the forefront of internet service in the U.S. The company has grown from offering dial-up service to providing modern high-speed internet options. EarthLink is committed to delivering reliable service with a focus on customer satisfaction. The company prides itself on offering secure internet with no data caps on most plans, making it a preferred choice for those who rely heavily on the internet. With a range of services available across the U.S., EarthLink stands out as a competitive player in the ISP market.

Pros Cons
No data caps, allowing for unlimited internet usage Availability of fiber is limited to certain areas
Wide range of plans to suit different needs and budgets Speeds can vary depending on the type of service and location
Extensive coverage across the U.S., including both DSL and fiber options
Strong security features, including privacy tools, for safe browsing
Reliable connection with minimal downtime for consistent performance
Competitive pricing and free installation on select plans
Flexible contract options, including no-contract plans
Fiber options available with speeds up to five Gigabytes (5Gs) for high-performance needs
No hidden fees or price hikes, with stable rates for the first 12 months
Easy-to-use online account management and support
Additional services include Virtual Private Network (VPN) and identity theft protection
Responsive, 24/7 customer support to assist with any needs
30-day money back guarantee for a risk-free trial

EarthLink Services

EarthLink offers a comprehensive range of internet services tailored to meet the diverse needs of residential and business customers across the U.S. Its high-speed fiber internet provides lightning-fast speeds of up to 5G per second, making it ideal for activities like streaming, online gaming and working from home. 

For customers in areas where fiber is not available, EarthLink also offers DSL and wireless home internet options, ensuring that reliable internet service is delivered across a wide geographic area, including rural and remote locations. 

EarthLink wired Plans come with the advantage of no Data Caps. Their wireless plans have data caps or, in the case of the unlimited WHI plan, a throttle implemented when specific data thresholds are met.

The combination of flexible plan options, extensive coverage and reliable performance makes EarthLink a strong contender in the ISP industry.

Additional EarthLink Services

Beyond their core internet offerings, EarthLink provides a suite of additional services designed to enhance security and improve the overall user experience. These include comprehensive internet security tools, such as identity theft protection and VPN services, which help safeguard users’ personal information and ensure secure browsing. Parental controls are also available, allowing families to manage and monitor online activities to keep children safe. For businesses, EarthLink offers specialized services like digital marketing, private email hosting and business internet solutions, which are tailored to meet the unique needs of commercial customers. These additional services are designed to complement EarthLink’s internet plans, offering customers an all-inclusive solution for both personal and professional use.

EarthLink Internet Performance

EarthLink Internet is a reliable and versatile option for both residential and business users. With various plans available, including high-speed fiber, DSL and satellite options, EarthLink ensures broad coverage and dependable service across the U.S. Here’s a look at how the service performs across a number of key criteria:

Reliability and Speed

EarthLink provides stable internet connections with minimal downtime. Fiber plans offer speeds up to 5G per second, perfect for high-demand activities like streaming and gaming. DSL and satellite options also deliver solid performance in areas where fiber isn’t available.

Security Features

EarthLink includes essential security tools like VPN services and identity theft protection, ensuring safe and secure online activity across all its plans.

EarthLink Internet Availability

EarthLink provides internet services to a wide range of locations across the U.S., covering both urban and rural areas. Its service offerings include fiber internet in major cities and high-density suburban areas, DSL in more traditional and suburban regions, and WHI for remote or rural locations where other forms of connectivity may be unavailable. This extensive coverage makes EarthLink a versatile option for users regardless of where they live, ensuring that they can find a plan that suits their specific needs and geographic location.

EarthLink Internet Signup

Signing up for EarthLink Internet is a straightforward process. You can start by visiting the brand’s website and entering your address to check the availability of services in your area. Once you’ve identified the best plan for your needs, you can complete the signup process online, choosing your preferred service, contract options and any additional features like security tools or equipment rentals. For any questions or assistance during the signup process, EarthLink’s customer support is available 24/7 to help guide you through the setup.

EarthLink Home Internet App

The EarthLink Home Internet app enhances user control and convenience, allowing users to manage their network, monitor data usage, and troubleshoot issues directly from their mobile devices. This app is a valuable tool for maximizing the EarthLink Internet experience.

EarthLink Internet Plans

EarthLink offers a range of internet plans designed to meet various needs, whether you’re in an urban area with access to high-speed fiber or a rural location where DSL or satellite is the best option. The primary types of plans include:

  • Fiber Internet Plans: These are ideal for users who need fast, reliable internet for activities like streaming, gaming and working from home. Fiber plans offer speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 5Gs, depending on your location.
  • DSL Internet Plans: For areas where fiber is not available, DSL plans provide a dependable alternative with speeds ranging from three Mbps to 80 Mbps. These plans are suitable for general internet usage, such as browsing and streaming.
  • Wireless Home Internet Plans: Using 4G LTE and 5G networks, these plans offer flexibility for users who need wireless connectivity without wired installation. Speeds vary, but these plans are well-suited for areas where other forms of internet might be less reliable.

EarthLink Internet Pricing

EarthLink offers competitively priced internet plans that cater to a wide range of budgets. Monthly costs generally fall between $54.95 and $189.95, depending on the speed, type of service and your specific location. Because prices may vary due to factors like location and promotional deals, it’s best to visit EarthLink’s website or contact their customer support for precise and current pricing details.

EarthLink Internet Deals

EarthLink regularly offers promotions that can make their internet services more affordable. These deals may include discounted rates for the first year, sign-up bonuses or waived installation fees. The specifics of these promotions often vary based on location and the type of service you choose. For the most up-to-date and relevant deals, it’s best to visit EarthLink’s official website or contact their customer service. Taking advantage of these offers can help you get more value from your EarthLink internet service.

EarthLink Customer Service and User Experience

EarthLink is widely recognized for its strong customer service and positive user experience. The company offers 24/7 customer support, with representatives who are responsive, well-trained and eager to assist—whether you’re setting up service, troubleshooting issues or addressing general inquiries. This level of support is particularly valuable for users who may not be as tech-savvy and require quick resolutions to maintain a smooth internet experience.

In addition to excellent customer service, EarthLink users frequently report satisfaction with the overall reliability and stability of the connection. The no data cap policy is a significant advantage for heavy internet users, ensuring they can use the internet without worrying about overage fees. The flexibility to choose between DSL and fiber options further enhances the user experience. Overall, EarthLink delivers a solid and dependable internet service that meets the diverse needs of its customers.

Comparing EarthLink to Other Internet Providers

Here’s a look at how EarthLink stacks up against the competition:

EarthLink vs. Spectrum

Both EarthLink and Spectrum offer reliable internet services, but they cater to slightly different customers. EarthLink stands out with its no-data-cap policy and superior customer service, making it a better option for heavy internet users. Spectrum, however, may offer faster speeds in areas where EarthLink’s fiber is not available. For those who prioritize unlimited data and strong customer support, EarthLink is the best choice.

EarthLink vs. AT&T

When comparing EarthLink to AT&T, the primary difference lies in the availability and pricing of fiber internet. AT&T offers broader fiber coverage but often comes with hidden fees and data caps on certain plans. EarthLink’s commitment to no data caps and excellent customer service may make it the preferable choice for those who want a straightforward, reliable internet service without unexpected costs.

EarthLink vs. Xfinity

Xfinity is known for its high-speed cable internet, but EarthLink’s fiber service can compete in terms of speed and reliability where available. EarthLink’s no data cap policy is a significant advantage over Xfinity, which may impose data caps on some plans. EarthLink is a wise choice for users who need consistent, unlimited internet.

Bottom Line: Why We Love It

EarthLink stands out as a top choice for internet service due to its combination of reliability, flexibility and customer-centric features. We love that EarthLink offers a variety of plans, including high-speed fiber, DSL and satellite options, ensuring that users in both urban and rural areas can find a plan that suits their needs. The absence of data caps on most plans allows for unlimited usage, making it ideal for heavy internet users. Additionally, EarthLink’s commitment to security, with built-in privacy tools and VPN options, provides peace of mind in today’s digital world. Coupled with 24/7 customer support and the convenience of the EarthLink Home Internet app, EarthLink delivers a comprehensive, user-friendly service that is hard to beat.

FAQs

What is EarthLink?

EarthLink is a leading ISP that offers a variety of internet services across the U.S. Founded in 1994, it has a long history of providing reliable internet to both residential and business customers. Highlights of Earthlink internet service include:

  • Unlimited Data: Wired plans include no data caps for unrestricted internet usage.
  • Reliable Performance: Stable connection with minimal downtime, suitable for various online activities.
  • Comprehensive Security: Includes optional privacy tools and additional security features are available to protect your online presence.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Accessible, round-the-clock support for all your service needs.

How much is EarthLink Internet?

The cost of EarthLink Internet varies depending on your location and the type of plan you choose. Prices can range from affordable DSL plans to more premium fiber options, although in many situations, EarthLink Fiber can be of lower cost than that of DSL lines. Promotional discounts are often available for new customers. Be sure to check out the EarthLink website for the latest prices and promotions.

Who owns EarthLink?

EarthLink is currently owned by Trive Capital, a private equity firm based in Dallas, Texas. Under Trive Capital’s ownership, EarthLink has continued to expand its services, focusing on delivering reliable internet options across the United States.

How does EarthLink work?

EarthLink provides internet services through various technologies such as DSL, fiber-optic cables and satellite. Depending on the service available in your area, EarthLink connects your home to the internet through either traditional wired connections or wireless signals, providing reliable and consistent internet access.

Methodology

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