In recent years, empirical evidence has underscored the imperative for robust, high-velocity internet connectivity. Consequently, end-users are progressively migrating away from traditional cable infrastructures in favor of more agile and high-throughput alternatives. These trends are corroborated by an annual longitudinal study commissioned by the Fiber Broadband Association and executed by RVA LLC, which scrutinizes the evolving landscape of the broadband ecosystem. The study showed that a significant share of customers are leaving traditional cable providers for fiber-optic technologies, renowned for unparalleled data transmission rates, and for wireless solutions.

The uptick in wireless adoption has been meteoric despite its relatively nascent entry into the market compared to the more established fiber-optic solutions.

Are faster speeds the main driver of this trend? Not always. Traditional cable speeds can range from 10 Mbps – 1,000 Mbps when Hybrid Cable Fiber (HFC) networks are available. Fixed wireless speeds range from 3 – 1000 Mbps. Fixed wireless can be limited in urban areas because it requires a line of sight for up to 10 miles to a cell tower. Fiber speeds are the fastest available and can exceed 2 Gbps or higher.

While faster internet motivates some to switch, other factors can include a desire for transparent pricing, easy installation and use, and no contract (where applicable). Additionally, more consumers are leaving cable TV for streaming services and platforms that require just an internet connection and not access to cable TV channels. Those who bundle TV and internet may drop TV and then consider if they should also switch internet providers as part of the transition.

While Verizon and T-Mobile have been entrenched in the 5G home internet sector for some time, AT&T recently inaugurated its services in 15 markets where consumers were using DSL, traditional cable or satellite.