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Which internet provider is the best?

M

macswitcha2

macrumors 65816
Original poster
Oct 18, 2008
1,255
8
I'm looking into Comcast Xfinity for my Internet Provider. Anyone in the East Coast recommend other providers?

Also, what speeds are adequate for streaming video, watching videos, and downloading?
 
If you can get Verizon Fios in your area it's worth looking into. The problem is that it is not available everywhere on the east coast.

I have phone, TV, and internet through them. The internet plan I have is the 35/35 plan - 35 mbs download, 35 mbs upload. To get max service you must use ethernet connection, with one exception discussed below. Used wireless, I was getting about 20 down/ 18 up.

With a Time Capsule, I now get 43 down/33 up wireless. Service is good.:D
 
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Shrink said:
If you can get Verizon Fios in your area it's worth looking into. The problem is that it is not available everywhere on the east coast.

I have phone, TV, and internet through them. The internet plan I have is the 35/35 plan - 35 mbs download, 35 mbs upload. To get max service you must use ethernet connection, with one exception discussed below. Used wireless, I was getting about 20 down/ 18 up.

With a Time Capsule, I now get 43 down/33 up wireless. Service is good.:D
Click to expand...

Wireless G is rated at 52 Mbit/s, and Wireless N is substantially faster than that. Obviously "real world" speeds will be different, but not by much more than the theoretical speed your service provider tells sells you:)

In other words, modern wireless networks should have no problem keeping up with a 35Mbit/s connection, unless it is Wireless A, or your network is borked in some way. A Time Capsule should not be required.
 
Earendil said:
Wireless G is rated at 52 Mbit/s, and Wireless N is substantially faster than that. Obviously "real world" speeds will be different, but not by much more than the theoretical speed your service provider tells sells you:)

In other words, modern wireless networks should have no problem keeping up with a 35Mbit/s connection, unless it is Wireless A, or your network is borked in some way. A Time Capsule should not be required.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the information.:D

I don't think the system is wonky because I was told by Verizon that the only way to get the full 35/35 was to use ethernet, and that the numbers would be lower wireless. It's, apparently, how their system works. When I connect to my router with an ethernet cable, the numbers are the same as with the wireless Time Capsule - 43 down, 33 up.

As far as the Time Capsule goes - I mainly bought it for automatic wireless Time Machine backup. The wifi speeds are, for me, a bonus.

I'm sure you are right about systems being able to handle 35 wirelessly. But, I must admit, I am unsophisticated enough to be happy with the speeds I'm getting now.

"When ignorance is bliss...":D
 
Comcast works great for me. If you have AT&T U-Verse in your area avoid it like the plague. The service is not reliable, they relocate all your networking equipment to what is good for them, which can be a bad location for wireless coverage. They also provide their own router and modem unit that only does 802.11g. Most of their high end packages are also slower than Comcast's low end packages.

One thing to be wary of with Comcast. If they need to use a signal booster make sure the tech separates the cable modem line from the TV lines. While the booster will enhance the TV signal it will degrade the internet signal. I think they have other boosters designed for the internet signal but they are more expensive so their use is discouraged.

Edit: Also AT&T doesn't actually run a fiber optic line to you house. It's just run to the street then they make use of existing phone and cable lines for the remainder. Which is why there service pales compared to other true Fiber Optic providers.
 
miles01110 said:
You should start with what providers service your area. Comcast generally works fine, and even their lowest-level package will suffice for streaming videos and downloading.
Click to expand...

But, of course, it is Comcast. My condolences.

I'm not on the east coast, but I am quite pleased with Cox cable internet.
 

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Check if RCN is available in your area. Have them for the past 3 years and am happy with the service. At first I had the 25 Mpbs and now the 50 Mpbs. They have some good package deals available.
 
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