In the past, you had to stick to phone or cable connections for good internet. However, now, in many places, you can have super-fast internet without needing a landline or cable TV.
Where you live decides how you can get Wi-Fi without cable or a phone line. Options include satellite internet, fiber internet, 4G or 5G internet, fixed wireless, or a mobile hotspot. Prices vary, starting from around $40 and going up to nearly $200 for really speedy internet with no data limits.
Let us look at the pros and cons of these different internet types that do not use phones or cable lines:
Internet Without Cable Or A Phone Line
Satellite Internet
If you live in the countryside, satellite internet is a top choice. All you need is a clear view of the southern sky for the signal to connect with a satellite way up in space. This signal can give you internet on your phone, TV, computer, and more.
However, there are downsides. It can be pricey with higher fees, and the internet might be slow and not very reliable. If you have other options where you live, satellite internet might not be the best pick. Usually, it costs around $80 each month. You can pay extra for a bigger data limit, but having unlimited data with satellite internet is not common.
Pros:
- Works well in really rural places
- No big starting costs
- Offers good internet security
Cons:
- Limited data
- Video calls, downloads, and video games might not work smoothly
- Monthly fees are relatively high
Fiber Internet
When it comes to speed and how well the internet works overall, fiber is the best. If you can get fiber, you still need a wired connection, but you do not need a phone or cable line.
The good news is fiber internet does not have many downsides in terms of performance. The price is similar to many other plans. However, here is the thing – only 43% of the country can get fiber internet. For the other 57%, it is a waiting game to see when fiber internet will be an option.
Pros:
- Super fast and reliable
- Prices are competitive each month
- No slowing down of internet speed
Cons:
- Not available for most of the country
- Fiber cables can get damaged
- There might be a payment for the installation
4G Internet
If you get cell service at home, 4G LTE home internet could work for you. It is a pretty affordable choice, usually costing between $40 and $60 each month. However, it is important to know that the download speeds are not as fast as 5G or fiber internet, so think about how you plan to use the internet.
Pros:
- Available through many cell service providers
- Monthly fees are low
Cons:
- Slower download speeds compared to 5G or fiberNee
- ds a place with good and reliable cell service
5G Internet
A step up from 4G to 5G internet is a much better choice for many folks. However, like fiber internet, it is not available everywhere in the country yet.
The good thing about 5G is that your internet speed should stay high, even during the busiest times. On average, it costs between $50 and $70 each month, and you can expect download speeds of over 200 Mbps.
Pros:
- Quick and reliable with low delays
- Affordable for high-speed internet
- A newer option compared to 4G LTE internet
Cons:
- Not found in rural areas
- Availability can be spotty in suburbs and towns
Fixed Wireless Internet
Think of fixed wireless internet like radio or TV signals. It works by catching a signal from a communication tower nearby. This type of internet can be fast even in rural places, as long as nothing big is blocking the signal between your home and the tower. The good thing is you do not need cable or phone lines to start, and setting it up is quite simple.
However, be aware that the download speeds with fixed wireless internet are not as fast as 5G or fiber. Still, it can be a decent choice. On average, it is about $60 each month, but the cost can vary greatly depending on where you are and the local providers.
Pros:
- Faster and more reliable internet in many rural spots
- Cheaper than satellite internet
- Some local providers offer it
Cons:
- It depends where do you live
- Download speeds minimun 50 Mbps
- Not available in mountainous areas
Mobile Hotspot Internet
If you want internet wherever you go, a mobile hotspot is a good choice. To use it, you need a cell phone plan that offers this option, usually at an extra cost, and it can use up your data pretty fast.
Pros:
- Not stuck in one place; you can take it with you
- Available in many areas
Cons:
- Can be slow and might have spotty service in some places
- Uses many data
People May Ask
Can you get internet without a phone line?
Depending on where you live, the top choices for having Wi-Fi without cable or a phone line include satellite internet, 4G or 5G internet, fiber internet, mobile hotspot, or fixed wireless.
How can I have internet without a phone line?
Mobile Broadband uses a USB dongle, data-only SIM, or a Wi-Fi hotspot. This allows you to connect wirelessly to 4G or 5G internet. It is a popular form of broadband without a fixed landline, and it is a great option if you want flexibility.
Is satellite internet a good choice?
Satellite internet is a good option if you are in a remote or rural area without access to fiber, cable, or DSL internet. However, be prepared to pay more for satellite internet, and the speeds may be lower compared to other technologies available in urban and suburban areas.
