Windstream is an internet provider that uses DSL and fiber networks to operate in parts of 18 states in the US including parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas. The company is the 6th largest residential provider of DSL in the U.S. by coverage area.

Windstream is known for DSL internet service in rural areas but in selected markets it is now also providing Kinetic fiber optic internet service with very high speeds. Windstream also offers bundled services, including broadband, security solutions, voice, and digital TV.

Windstream's plans range from 100 Mbps to 8 Gigabytes (8,000 Mbps) where available. The Windstream Kinetic GIG plan is up to 1 Gig (1,000 Mbps) and is ideal for serious gamers and the ultra-connected home. The Kinetic 500 plan is up to 500 Mbps and is best for multiple streamers, multi-device households, and downloading large media files. The 8 Gig plan can handle a massive number of devices that are gaming, streaming, and uploading large media files. There are no data caps or long-term contracts. Windstream's average download speed is 90.77 Mbps, and the average latency on Windstream Internet speed tests is 39.14ms.

Fiber optic plans are not available in all areas, but DSL service from Windstream can provide reliable internet coverage for average users.

HughestNet

HughesNet is a satellite-based broadband internet service from Hughes Network Systems. It's available almost everywhere in the U.S. and offers a download speed of up to 25 Mbps and an upload speed of up to 3 Mbps.

For families that live in areas that are rural or even remote and do not have access to a wide range of internet service types, satellite internet can be a lifesaver. You can still get online. HughesNet is a good choice for rural areas where cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), or fiber isn't available. It can be fast enough to stream Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, or other streaming services on your device but you may want to select Standard definition to help files load faster. Satellite internet is known for high latency because of the distance the signal must travel but it’s still a good option for activities like browsing, social networking, and checking email online. You won’t be able to game.

HughesNet Internet plans start at $49.99/mo. for 15GB of data all the way to $179.99 per month for 200 GB of data. There are other options in between. Like similar satellite internet providers HughesNet does require a 2-year contract and if you need to cancel you may have to pay an early termination fee. Installation, equipment fees, and taxes are separate. HughesNet has over 1 million subscribers.