Broadband Guides
Plain-language guides to help you understand broadband technology, choose the right provider, and make sense of FCC Form 477 and Broadband Data Collection data covering availability across all 50 states. See our methodology.
How to Choose an Internet Provider
A practical framework for evaluating ISPs based on speed, price, reliability, and contract terms.
Fiber vs. Cable vs. DSL
Technical comparison of the three most common broadband technologies, with real-world speed expectations.
Understanding Internet Speeds
What Mbps means, how to interpret speed tiers, and how much bandwidth different activities actually need.
Broadband in Rural Areas
Connectivity challenges and solutions for rural communities, from fixed wireless to satellite to federal funding.
How to Read Broadband Data
A guide to understanding FCC broadband reports, coverage maps, and what the numbers actually mean.
Internet for Remote Work
Bandwidth requirements for video conferencing, cloud apps, and VPNs, plus backup strategies.
Fixed Wireless Explained
How fixed wireless broadband works, when it makes sense, and how it compares to wired alternatives.
Methodology
Our guides are based on publicly available data from authoritative government sources. All statistics, ratings, and figures cited in these guides are drawn directly from official datasets and publications, with sources clearly referenced throughout.
We aim to present complex government data in plain language that is accessible to general audiences. When methodologies differ between data sources or change over time, we note these variations inline. Our editorial process includes regular reviews to ensure accuracy and timeliness of the information presented.