Internet Service Providers
Top Companies in 2025
CenturyLink vs optimum
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- Flexible
- Allows multiple users and devices on one plan
- Mobile application
- High-speed fiber connections
- Competitive introductory pricing on fiber plans
- No contracts or data caps on residential plans
- Expanding fiber network with multi-gigabit speeds
- Inclusive Wi-Fi 6 gateway with no extra monthly fee
- Bundling discounts for internet, TV, and mobile
- Access to nationwide Optimum Wi-Fi hotspots
- Affordable Access Program for eligible households
- Security concerns
- Challenges in contacting support
- May experience outages
- Significant post-promotional price increases
- Widespread customer service complaints
- Low customer satisfaction and BBB ratings
- Slow upload speeds on non-fiber (cable) plans
- Inconsistent service reliability in older network areas
- Limited fiber availability in many service regions
Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA., CenturyLink is one of the leading telecommunication companies offering affordable internet solutions for upcoming businesses and top-of-the-range landline service. The company has grown through key acquisitions, offering services like traditional landlines, advanced VOIP systems, and unified communications. Their flexible pricing plans with perks like free equipment and installation, comprehensive communication solutions, and a user-friendly mobile app show their commitment to continuous evolution in the fast-paced technological world. However, the company needs to address drawbacks such as security concerns and inconsistent customer services to remain competitive. Despite these challenges, CenturyLink's commitment to providing affordable internet solutions and ability to address customer complaints shows that the company is headed in a good direction.
Optimum, operating under their parent company Altice USA, are a major telecommunications provider headquartered in Long Island City, New York. Their core service area spans 21 states, with a strong concentration in the Northeast. The company provides internet, TV, and mobile services, with their most compelling offerings being their expanding fiber-optic network. Standout features include multi-gigabit speeds up to 8 Gbps, a "Price for Life" price lock guarantee on select fiber plans, and the inclusion of a Wi-Fi 6 gateway with no equipment fee. For value-seeking customers, Optimum promotes strong bundle discounts, often including a free unlimited mobile line for a year with certain internet plans, and an Affordable Access Program for eligible households. Despite these technical strengths, Optimum's reputation is severely impacted by consistent critical feedback. They hold an F rating from the Better Business Bureau, reflecting a high volume of unresolved customer complaints. Common grievances center on significant price increases after the promotional period ends, considerable difficulties with customer service, including long wait times and unhelpful support, and unreliable service in areas still dependent on its older cable infrastructure. This creates a stark contrast between their capable network technology and a frequently frustrating customer experience.
- Cheap and reliable high-speed connections through fiber
- Affordable internet and voice solutions for business
- Cheaper scalability
- "Price for Life" guarantee on select fiber plans
- 60-day money-back guarantee for fiber customers
- Strong bundle value with a free unlimited mobile line for one year
- 5-year price lock on budget "Advantage Internet" plans
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