Aug 26, Share Brand Guides. High-speed internet is a basic necessity, and both public and private organizations are working to expand access. This has made it possible for many people in the US to get broadband internet free of charge through the Affordable Connectivity Program and other public and private programs. And what if no major ISPs offer service where you live?
Long-term internet infrastructure solutions to these problems are complicated. However, there are multiple ways to get internet access completely free of charge or at a reduced cost. These can be important not only during a global crisis, but also during any type of financial stress.
Many internet service providers ISPs have programs for helping low-income families. Although the ACP has ended , most former ACP recipients can get assistance through the Lifeline program , which can reduce or cover the cost of your internet bill.
Optimum customers can sign up for the Optimum Advantage plan, which offers speeds up to 50Mbps and free equipment. For more information, check out our overview of Optimum Advantage Internet. Learn More. Comcast also increased the speed available to the Internet Essentials program in response to the COVID pandemic, a change which will be permanent. While the ACP program previously covered the cost of either program, you can still get the cost of the basic Internet Essentials plan completely covered through the Lifeline program.
You can learn more about these plans in our overview of Xfinity Internet Essentials. This provides fiber speeds up to Mbps, as well as free equipment and installation. Cox offers affordable internet through its ConnectAssist package. This package also includes access to Wi-Fi hotspots and educational resources through Cox Digital Academy. With multiple qualifying programs, ConnectAssist is one of the more widely available discounted internet programs out there.
