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The Best Internet Providers in Illinois

Published on: 23 August 2022
by: Mathieu Paquette

There are various internet providers in Illinois, and it’s not always easy to find the right one. These providers offer different package deals on the internet, telephone connectivity, and television streaming services depending on each user’s needs, expectations, and online activity. There are different speeds available for each use, which is determined by the actual internet usage as well as the number of devices connected.

Read this guide to better understand the internet and TV technologies available in US

Where available, there are advanced services offered by service providers that have fiber-optic networks and satellite enhanced connections. With the customer’s needs coming first, user satisfaction is the top priority for each user’s package deals. Flexibility, choice, and adaptability are what set apart each service provider. To help you find the best internet provider in Illinois, keep reading.

Verification process

CTRC verification

We verify that the Internet service providers (ISPs) listed are recognized by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

Availability verification

We verify the availability of Internet plans at your address. We offer search by postal code from our Telecom Module.

Regular audits and updates

We audit ISPs websites regularly to display the most updated packages available on the market.

Promotions and deals

We verify new promotions and, in some instances, have the ability to negotiate exclusive offers on your behalf that are available to you by following links from our website.

CTRC verification

We verify that the Internet service providers (ISPs) listed are recognized by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).

Availability verification

We verify the availability of Internet plans at your address. We offer search by postal code from our Telecom Module.

Regular audits and updates

We audit ISPs websites regularly to display the most updated packages available on the market.

Promotions and deals

We verify new promotions and, in some instances, have the ability to negotiate exclusive offers on your behalf that are available to you by following links from our website.

MovingWaldo's list of the Best Internet Service Providers in Illinois

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Spectrum

18552438892

Services offered

Internet: Spectrum provides different tiers of internet service that serve each specific user’s needs and expectations. Their speeds vary from the Everyday Low Price to Basic, Standard, Turbo and even the Extreme and Ultimate tiers. Through these classifications, they are able to serve all kinds of users in the market. They also have free internet service for qualifying families in low-income areas that were launched in 2020 to assist in remote learning and working.

Television: Spectrum provides cable television services in three tiers depending on the user’s needs. The Select tier offers over 125 channels, the Silver tier offers over 175 channels, and the Gold tier offers over 200 channels. There are also different channel combination options through their Choice, Stream and Essentials categories. You can access any of these through Spectrum’s apps on Roku, Xbox One, Apple TV, iOS, Android device, internet browser and most streaming devices.

Home Phone: Spectrum offers home phone or landline telephone services, also known as Spectrum Voice. They use a telephone cable modem to offer this service, either by itself or in combination with the household’s main cable modem. Users enjoy unlimited local and long-distance phone calls in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and the Virgin Islands. There are also other additional features such as voicemail, E911 access and even Caller ID.

Internet connection type

Why Spectrum is recommended by our expert

Spectrum was established in 2014 as a trademark of Charter Communications who have been servicing America for over 20 years. They market consumer and commercial cable services, including internet, telephone and other wireless services. They even service 30 million Americans in over 40 states. You can be sure your getting top notch internet with Spectrum.

Xfinity

18009346489

Services offered

Internet: Xfinity offers the largest gig-speed network available. Through their xFi Gateway modem plus router, you will have WiFi control and also advanced security which helps block cyber threats against the users in your home. They offer unlimited internet through their xFi Complete service. They do have a cap to their bandwidth for those who are not aboard the xFi Complete service tier.

Television: Xfinity offers live television, sports, music and streaming services all in one place. They are focused on providing users with a full-spectrum viewing experience. Xfinity’s TV service is of such a high quality that many businesses use it. In fact, they even have TV packages for restaurants, fitness centers, bars and retail shops. They also offer in-room entertainment for hotels and motels.They have numerous resources to ensure that they deliver quality and uninterrupted TV services.

Home Phone: Xfinity Voice provides landline telephone services for homes and offices. Xfinity voice allows users to communicate via the internet using VoIP but with a private network instead of an IP address which is public. This digital migration has several benefits, for example it uses E911 which allows 911 phone operators to automatically determine the source of the 911 call, therefore delivering service more effectively.

Internet connection type

Why Xfinity is recommended by our expert

Founded it 1981, Xfinity is dedicated to keeping up with the ever-changing digital world. They are even known as the largest supplier of cable internet access in the US. Xfinity offer various tiers of internet, TV, home security along with mobile and home phones. Xfinity internet is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a solid internet connection at home.

Suddenlink

18777942724

Services offered

Internet: Suddenlink provides internet packages of up to 940 Mbps. With this, users can stream 4K video content on multiple devices. There are also low-cost options for qualifying students, veterans and senior citizens. Suddenlink also has advanced technology for intelligent coverage with smart WiFi.

Television: With Suddenlink’s flexible TV packages, users get to choose their own channel lineup. They also have a Bluetooth-enabled remote that allows users to issue voice commands when selecting their favourite channels and shows. There are also add-ons to enhance their experience while enjoying premium entertainment.

Home Phone: There are many perks to Suddenlink’s home phones such as unlimited talk and text and nationwide networks access included in the package at no additional cost. Suddenlink often has deals for their current subscribers that can even go up to 50% off during certain times of the year.

Internet connection type

Why Suddenlink is recommended by our expert

Established in 1992 as Classic Communications and rebranded into Suddenlink in 2006, Suddenlink provides services such as cable television, home phone, high-speed internet and home security. They are the fourth-largest cable operator in the United States, with over 4.6 million subscribers. They are also the sixth largest pay-TV service provider in the country, with over 3.5 million subscribers.

AT&T

18883336651

Services offered

Internet: AT&T offers various internet services. These include AT&T internet, both fixed and wireless internet, DSL and dial-up internet. There are also different internet plans available depending on the user’s budget. There are also low-cost internet packages for those who would prefer that. One can also easily upgrade to a faster speed if they need to. Internet speeds are reliable, with available support whenever necessary.

Television: AT&T also offers different packages for television streaming services. These come in different tiers depending on the user’s needs. These include AT&T TV, AT&T Now, DirecTV and U-verse TV. Each come with a preset number of channels and access, including different price ranges. Users are able to check their AT&T TV channel lineup and decide if they would like to add or not. There are also various options available such as live TV or recorded shows, as well as Google Assistant with AT&T TV.

Home Phone: AT&T also offers services for home telephones. These include digital phone service, landline connections and wireless home phone service. They offer several perks within these services including caller ID, call blocking, call protect and other phone call features. There is also available customer care support. There are different home phone plans for different home uses too. Apart from home phones, there are also other services provided for your home such as cameras, hotspots and modems.

Internet connection type

Why AT&T is recommended by our expert

AT&T is an American multinational company based in Dallas, Texas. It is known as one of the largest telecommunications company in the world. It is also the largest provider of mobile phone services as well as largest provider of landline telephone services in the United States. They offer a huge spectrum of services from internet to WiFi, prepaid services, bundles, wireless streaming, television cable services and much more. You can be sure to have a solid internet connection with AT&T.

HughesNet

18447372700

Services offered

Internet: HughesNet is a global leader in the supply of broadband satellite technology which is excellent for people living in rural areas. They are known for their services for their residential and commercial internet services. There are various consumer and business plans that are affordable, depending on a user’s specific requirements and needs. While satellite internet is considered to be slow, HughesNet has some of the fastest speeds.

Television: By using satellite TV, users get to keep data usage low and have unlimited access to their choice of television content. Because HughesNet does not offer satellite TV services, there are options for connecting through DISH and DirecTV providers.

Home Phone: HughesNet Voice offers affordable prices for users seeking home phone services. They also include a two-year price lock guarantee, which comes with a set-up and activation service included. They are known for their unlimited local and nationwide calling and potential savings on the user’s equipment when they request a bundle for phone service with the internet.

Internet connection type

Why HughesNet is recommended by our expert

HughesNet is a company that offers fast and reliable satellite internet to regions where cable and DSL providers cannot reach. They deliver fast speeds at affordable prices to their customers. HughesNet is powered by EchoStar XIX, the highest capacity broadband satellite in the world. This is the number one choice for satellite internet in the United States. Through this, HughesNet is able to supply many households and small businesses from coast to coast.

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The expert

Jasmine Mainguy-Seers

Jasmine is MovingWaldo’s top moving concierge. She has been in and out of millions of moves in the past 4 years. Among other things, Jasmine audits the internet service providers websites weekly and compiles her best discoveries and exclusive deals here. Before signing off to a 12-month internet plan, do your due diligence… or let Jasmine do it for you.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main types of Internet connections?

The main types of Internet connections in Canada are DSL, Cable, Fiber optic, Fixed wireless, and Satellite. Note that you may not always be able to choose your type of Internet connection due to your location and your home’s infrastructure. However, if you live in an urban area where there are many to select from, refer to the chart below to determine which one is best for you!

Type of connection	How it works and who it’s good for
DSL	DSL Internet uses phone lines to transmit signals. As most buildings have phone lines, you won’t need to worry about a complex installation process. DSL speeds can usually reach a maximum of 100 Mbps and are suitable for the typical household.
Cable	Cable Internet uses cable lines that are also used for cable TV. As most buildings have cable lines, you won’t need to worry about a complex installation process. Cable Internet speeds can reach as high as 1000 Mbps, making it useful for mild to heavy Internet users. Cable Internet is typically more expensive than DSL Internet.
Fiber optic	Fiber optic Internet uses tiny cables made of glass or plastic to transmit signals at nearly the speed of light. It is the connection that can offer the fastest speeds of up to 2000 Mbps. As fiber optic Internet is recent, installation and monthly plans can get quite costly. It is useful for heavy Internet users that require ultra-fast speeds.
Fixed wireless	Fixed wireless Internet uses radio signals to transmit data. It is useful for remote rural residents and requires an antenna to be installed on your roof. It is known to be more expensive than satellite Internet, yet faster and with less latency (lag/delay).
Satellite	Satellite Internet uses satellite dishes to transmit data to and from satellites in space. It is also convenient for remote rural residents and is known to be slower than fixed wireless Internet due to the long distance between the satellite and space.

What Internet speed do I need?

Determining what Internet speed you require for your household can be tricky. You may be wondering the following questions. Is 50 Mbps fast enough? What is a good Internet speed?

The chart below will help you know what’s best based on your lifestyle and type of household.

Before doing this, you may want to test your Internet speed.

Internet speed

Good for what

Good for who

5 – 10 Mbps

• Checking emails

• Browsing

• Listening to music

• Minimal Internet users

• People living alone

10 – 40 Mbps

• Online assignments

• Social media

• Netflix

• YouTube

• IPTV

• Students

• Casual Internet users

• Children and teens

40 – 100 Mbps

• Video calls

• Netflix

• Working from home

• Online classes

• People working from home

• Students

• Families (4 people)

100 – 500 Mbps

• Video calls

• Gaming

• Streaming

• Gamers

• Streamers

• Big families (5+ people)

500 – 1000 Mbps

• Heavy gaming

• Streaming

• Commercial Internet

• Heavy gamers

• Heavy streamers

• Businesses

Note that the type of mobile device you use (whether it is newer or not) along with the type of connection (Cable, DSL, Fiber, Satellite, Wireless) may impact the Wi-Fi speed.

Does where you live affect your Internet speed?

Where you live can absolutely impact your Internet speed. Depending on how near you are to your network’s closest infrastructure (data center or cell tower), the speed may be impacted.

If you live in a rural area, you’ll have less access to high speed Internet connections like cable, fiber optic, and DSL. You may then have to use satellite Internet, in which transmission times are slower to the satellites in space, decreasing your Internet speed.

The types of walls you have (brick, concrete, metal) may also make the signal weaker.

Most importantly, if there are many households in your neighborhood connected to the same network, your speeds may decrease. This is especially true during times of the day when most people are at home (evenings).

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