Does Verizon Offer Internet in 2024? (Complete Guide)

As one of the largest telecom companies in the US, Verizon is well-known for its cell phone plans. But with over 6 million internet subscribers nationwide according to Leichtman Research Group, Verizon also offers home and business internet services using both fiber and DSL technology.

How Does Verizon Deliver Internet?

Verizon primarily uses two types of networks to provide internet access across over 70% of the US according to research firm M Science:

FIOS: Fiber optic network that gives faster, more reliable connectivity. Available to over 50% of households per Verizon‘s latest earnings report.

High-Speed DSL: Uses copper phone lines for areas without fiber accessibility. Speeds are slower than fiber but faster than old dial-up.

This combination of fiber and DSL helps Verizon achieve solid rankings for internet speed and coverage across the country.

Availability Compared to Other Providers

Verizon‘s internet infrastructure falls slightly behind top providers like AT&T fiber in terms of household reach, but exceeds availability from competitors like CenturyLink, Spectrum and Optimum according to 2022 statistics from M Science and Leichtman:

So while AT&T fiber has a slight edge in reach, Verizon internet is available to more households nationwide than other alternatives beyond the two fiber giants.

Speed and Reliability

Third-party testing shows Verizon‘s internet provides consistently fast speeds and minimal interruptions across their service region:

• According to December 2022 FCC Measuring Broadband America report, Verizon delivers 101% of advertised download speeds during peak hours – exceeding performance of Comcast, Charter and other competitors.

• Internet outage tracking site Downdetector place Verizon FIOS among the most reliable providers with limited downtime. Verizon DSL sees more frequent issues but still outpaces unreliable options like HughesNet satellite.

Verizon Internet Plans and Pricing

Verizon offers three main tiers of internet plans based on speed:

Bundles including TV and phone start around $100 per month – providing good overall value according to consumer advocacy groups like Consumer Reports.

Pros and Cons of Verizon Internet

Pros

• Fast and reliable fiber connectivity where available
• Good value bundles to mix and match services
• No annual contracts or early termination fees

Cons

• FIOS fiber network has limited regional availability
• DSL speeds can‘t match performance of fiber
• Customer service satisfaction lags behind some competitors

Conclusion: How Competitive is Verizon For Home Internet?

Based on their advanced fiber infrastructure with widespread availability, Verizon FIOS provides fast and dependable home internet service for a reasonable price.

While regional fiber leaders like AT&T have a slight edge in terms of raw household reach, Verizon generally outpaces availability from other major providers like Comcast and Charter. And their fiber network delivers better average speeds than competitors relies on older coaxial cable lines according to FCC data.

The combination of strong infrastructure and competitive bundled pricing makes Verizon a leading option for home internet across much of the US. DSL availability fills gaps in areas without fiber connectivity.

Just note that customer and tech support has room for improvement – so for a more seamless service experience, fiber leaders AT&T and Verizon are your best bets if available in your area.