What is WiFi Service?
WiFi is merely an extension of internet service and a means to connect your devices wirelessly. Most if not all internet providers have integrated WiFi capabilities into their service as it is an essential part of how we access the internet today. Your WiFi router works in tandem with your internet modem to transfer signals to your smart devices within a certain coverage area that your router can support. Over the last two decades, WiFi technology has significantly improved, and due to heavy reliance on it, many businesses and providers now offer free WiFi hotspots at no additional cost.

Top WiFi Providers




How WiFi Providers Stack Up
AT&T
300 Mbps – 940 Mbps
CenturyLink
20 Mbps – 940 Mbps
EarthLink
30 Mbps – 1000 Mbps
HughesNet
25 Mbps
Xfinity
1,200Mbps – 3000Mbps
Is WiFi Service Right for Me?
Generally speaking, WiFi is the most convenient way to use the internet. Before it came around, the only way to access the internet was through a hard-wired, or LAN, connection. This tethered your device to a certain location and didn’t offer much flexibility with your office space or accessibility. Now, WiFi is available virtually anywhere there is an internet connection.
It’s great for anyone that regularly uses the internet. Because it’s wireless, it offers more freedom to move around, is generally cheaper to install in larger settings, and provides speeds to support nearly any lifestyle. It’s especially great for things like online gaming, streaming services, or video conferencing.
How WiFi Service Compares to Wired Internet
One thing to note about WiFi service is that it can be up to 50% slower than a wired connection. This means that when you subscribe to an internet plan promoting speeds up to 200 Mbps, you can expect to receive speeds up to 100 Mbps or slower when accessing the internet via WiFi. To know your current internet speeds, we recommend taking a speed test from TestMySpeed.com. Taking one can help you decide if it’s time to upgrade your plan to support your digital needs.
WiFi Service FAQs
To buy WiFi service, you’ll need to select an internet provider and choose an internet plan that integrates WiFi capabilities. Then, using a wireless router you either rent from your provider or purchase separately, you can set up a wireless connection and begin using the internet freely throughout your home without being tied down by an ethernet cord.
When you sign up for an internet plan, what you’re paying for is the connection and speeds from your provider to your modem. As an extension of the internet, WiFi service comes from a router actually routing that connection from your modem to your smart devices. You may be able to pay a monthly equipment rental fee, purchase a router from your provider, or buy one on your own.
Some providers combine modem and router technology into one device for ease of installation and use. In addition, your provider may give you the option to lease their internet equipment or to purchase it all on your own. If you have the option, purchasing your own equipment is a great way to save you money in the long run.
If you’re experiencing sub-par WiFi service, try disconnected devices not in use or resetting your router. Those usually do the trick. If not, check out10 different ways to fix poor WiFi performance.
Top providers that offer free WiFi hotspots include:
Xfinity (18+ million nationwide)
Cox (3+ million nationwide)
Spectrum (600K+ nationwide)
Optimum (2+ million nationwide)