✦ Edited and fact-checked by Eric Chiu, our Internet Editor with 15 years of experience covering internet and home entertainment.
Maximize your bandwidth with EarthLink internet
EarthLink remains a powerhouse in the American internet service provider (ISP) landscape, operating in 47 states. Unlike traditional providers that own every mile of their infrastructure, EarthLink partners with major networks like AT&T and CenturyLink to deliver high-speed internet access.
This beginner’s guide breaks down the core pillars of the EarthLink experience: pricing structure, service plans, and real-world performance expectations.
EarthLink internet at a glance
EarthLink offers a broad catalog of internet services, depending on the coverage options available in your area. Let’s break down the types of internet offered by EarthLink.
- DSL internet uses aging copper wiring to deliver basic internet speeds to your home. While some current EarthLink customers still have DSL, the ISP no longer actively markets it to new subscribers.
- 5G wireless internet harnesses 5G phone towers to deliver internet access to your home. This is EarthLink’s most widely available internet type because it doesn’t require customers to have a physical connection to EarthLink’s network.
- Fiber internet offers the fastest download and upload speeds on the market. However, availability can be mixed as it requires ISPs to physically build new networks in your neighborhood.
- Satellite internet uses orbiting satellites to provide home internet access. EarthLink’s satellite internet plans are intended for rural or remote home internet customers who aren’t covered by 5G or wired home internet.
Best EarthLink internet plan specs
| Plan type | Download speeds |
Starting price |
Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| DSL Internet | 18–75 Mbps | $64.95/mo. | Sign Up for EarthLink |
| Fiber 100 | 100 Mbps | $39.95/mo. | Sign Up for EarthLink |
| Fiber 1 Gig | 1,000 Mbps | $74.95/mo. | Sign Up for EarthLink |
| Fiber 5 Gig | 5,000 Mbps | $189.95/mo. | Sign Up for EarthLink |
| 5G Home Internet | Up to 425 Mbps | $59.95/mo. | Sign Up for EarthLink |
Data effective as of publish date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.
How to choose the best EarthLink internet
When evaluating EarthLink internet, you should consider the following three performance factors:
- Unlimited data standards: Unlike many cable competitors, EarthLink includes unlimited data on its internet plans. This eliminates overage anxiety for high-bandwidth households engaged in 4K streaming or large-scale gaming.
- Network sourcing: Since EarthLink relies on other providers’ networks, performance is often tied to the host provider’s local infrastructure (e.g., if AT&T has strong fiber in your neighborhood, EarthLink will likely perform excellently).
- Symmetrical speeds: With its fiber plans, EarthLink offers symmetrical upload and download speeds, a critical performance metric for video conferencing and cloud backups.
What real Earthlink internet customers are saying
Our internal data and customer satisfaction survey show that EarthLink is a favorite for people who want high-speed internet without the bloated contracts and promotional traps common with other major carriers.
Works good during storms, and pricing does not go up every week. I have had no issues with EarthLink service-wise or performance.
I was always satisfied with the quality of service they provided. This includes communication with my internet provider as well as the quality of internet services.
Because it's reliable and I haven't had any issues with it so far. It's the best, fastest internet.
I like the brand. It's familiar. They serviced my area. It's better than Xfinity prepaid
EarthLink internet vs. the competition
It’s tricky to compare EarthLink to competing ISPs since it technically is the competition — EarthLink delivers home internet using the networks of providers like AT&T, Viasat, and Verizon.
That said, EarthLink offers respectable pricing on its internet plans. While EarthLink fiber’s 100 Mbps starting download speeds are fairly meager in 2026, it’s reasonably priced at under $50/mo. Similarly, its 5G home internet plan is comparably priced to competitors like AT&T Internet Air.
Check out our EarthLink internet review for our full take on the ISP’s plans.
EarthLink internet FAQ
Does EarthLink require a contract?
Most fiber plans come with a 12-month commitment, while 5G Home Internet is typically offered month-to-month.
Is EarthLink owned by AT&T?
No. EarthLink is an independent company, but they lease bandwidth from AT&T's network to provide fiber service in many regions.
Can I use my own router?
While you can often use your own router behind the EarthLink gateway, the monthly equipment fee is usually mandatory to ensure support and network compatibility.
*with a 12 month contract. Actual speeds may vary depending on the distance, line-quality, phone service provider, and number of devices used concurrently. All speeds not available in all areas.
†DSL and Fiber Plans require a 12 month contract and may have a cancellation fee to be determined upon cancellation.
‡ Actual speeds may vary depending on the distance, line-quality, phone service provider, and number of devices used concurrently. All speeds not available in all areas. Exclusions, taxes, fees, or modem service charges may apply. Not available in all areas. Limited-time offer; subject to change.
