Are you a foreigner wondering how to access to the internet in the United States? Whether visiting or living as a digital nomad, securing a fast, reliable connection can be more challenging than expected.
Although the U.S. is one of the most connected countries globally, options for visitors or non-residents can feel confusing.
As a digital nomad, a stable internet connection is crucial for your work, and you don’t want to lose it.
But don’t worry—getting internet in the United States is not as complicated if you know where to look. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best alternatives to stay connected, regardless of your immigration status.
Quality of Internet in the United States
The quality of the Internet in the United States is generally very high for both wired and mobile connections. The country boasts a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure that provides fast speeds and extensive coverage in most regions. Let’s take a closer look at the quality of service for both fixed and mobile internet.
Wired Internet
In terms of wired internet, download and upload speeds in the United States are among the most competitive globally. A 2023 Ookla Speedtest report shows the average download speed for fixed broadband is 215 Mbps. The average upload speed is about 23 Mbps. The U.S. ranks well for speed, though urban and rural areas vary.
In major cities, coverage is almost complete, with providers like AT&T, Comcast Xfinity, and Verizon competing for customers. This competition ensures fast, stable connections for users. However, in rural areas, connectivity is more limited. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), approximately 14% of rural areas lack access to high-speed internet.
Mobile Internet: 3G, 4G, and 5G
The United States has implemented a robust 4G LTE network for mobile internet. OpenSignal data shows average download speeds range from 30 to 70 Mbps. Additionally, the 5G network is continually expanding. The main operators have deployed 5G in major urban areas, with speeds that can exceed 200 Mbps under optimal conditions.
Verizon leads the country in coverage and ratings, excelling in speed and stability on the 4G network.
It is also a pioneer in 5G expansion, covering 70% of the urban population, according to RootMetrics data. T-Mobile, on the other hand, has the most extensive 5G deployment nationwide, covering over 53% of the U.S. territory. While AT&T has also advanced in 5G implementation, its coverage is still less compared to market leaders.
Areas with Connectivity Issues
Urban and suburban areas in the United States enjoy fast, reliable internet connections. However, certain regions face connectivity issues. Mountainous areas and rural states, such as Montana, Wyoming, and parts of Alaska, have limited fixed and mobile internet access. According to the FCC, these areas still face issues with 4G coverage, and the expansion of 5G is virtually nonexistent.
If you plan to visit rural areas or national parks, check mobile coverage in advance. Places such as Yellowstone National Park or remote areas of Arizona may have intermittent or no connection at all.
T-Mobile has the largest 5G deployment nationwide, covering over 53% of the U.S. territory with this technology. While AT&T has also made progress in implementing 5G, its coverage is still smaller compared to the market leaders.
Areas with Connectivity Issues
Urban and suburban areas in the U.S. typically enjoy fast, reliable internet. However, mountainous regions and rural states like Montana, Wyoming, and parts of Alaska have limited fixed and mobile connectivity. According to the FCC, these areas still struggle with 4G coverage, and 5G expansion is virtually non-existent.
If you plan to travel to rural areas or national parks, it’s advisable to check mobile coverage beforehand. Places like Yellowstone National Park or remote parts of Arizona may have intermittent or no connection at all.
Options for Mobile Internet Access in the United States
When traveling to the United States, having access to mobile internet is crucial to stay connected at all times. Below, we present the main options available for foreign travelers, along with their advantages and disadvantages explained in detail.
Local SIM Cards
One of the most straightforward options is to purchase a local SIM card from operators like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon.You can buy these SIM cards in stores located at airports, malls, or the operators’ branches. Prepaid plans include calls, messages, and data, allowing for immediate connectivity.
This option is affordable and easy to obtain, but it requires you to unlock your phone to accept SIM cards from other countries. Additionally, some operators may request a local address for activation, which complicates matters if you don’t have residence in the country. However, in terms of convenience and price, it’s ideal if you plan to stay for an extended period.
International SIM Cards
International SIM cards are an excellent option if you’re traveling to multiple countries, as they allow you to use the same SIM card in different destinations. Companies like OneSimCard and TravelSim offer specific plans for tourists visiting the United States and other locations, making connectivity easy without the need to switch SIMs when crossing borders.
While these cards are very convenient for frequent travelers, they tend to be more expensive than local SIM cards and often offer less data or slower connection speeds. Nevertheless, they’re a great choice for those looking to avoid the hassle of constantly changing SIMs when moving between countries.
Local eSIMs
Local eSIMs are a modern and easy-to-use alternative, ideal for travelers with compatible devices. Operators like T-Mobile and AT&T allow the activation of an eSIM through an online process without needing a physical card. This means you can start using the internet as soon as you arrive in the United States.
The great advantage of eSIMs is that they don’t require additional hardware, making them more convenient for travelers looking for quick and easy activation. However, only phones that support this technology (like certain iPhone and Android models) can use it. If your device is not compatible, this option won’t be available to you.
International eSIMs
International eSIMs, like those offered by Airalo and Nomad, allow travelers to stay connected across multiple countries without physically changing SIM cards. These eSIMs can be activated before your arrival in the United States, giving you immediate internet access when you land.
This option offers great flexibility for those traveling to various destinations. However, it may have coverage limitations in some rural areas of the United States and tends to be more expensive compared to a local eSIM, which might not be ideal if you plan to stay in the country for an extended period.
International Roaming
International roaming is an option that allows travelers to use their local mobile data plan while abroad. Many global operators, such as Vodafone and Movistar, offer special packages that include roaming in the United States at reduced prices, avoiding the high standard roaming rates.
While it is convenient because you don’t need to change SIM cards or worry about setting up a new number, roaming rates can be expensive if you don’t purchase a specific package before your trip. Additionally, depending on your operator, speed and coverage may not be optimal in certain areas of the United States.
International Pocket WiFi
International Pocket WiFi is a portable option that allows you to connect to the internet through a small device that creates a private WiFi network for your devices. Companies like Skyroam and TravelWiFi rent these devices to tourists traveling to the United States.
This service is ideal if you’re traveling in a group or need to connect multiple devices at once. However, you’ll need to carry the additional device and monitor its battery life, which can be limited. Additionally, data plans for Pocket WiFi tend to be more expensive compared to SIM or eSIM options.
Mobile Satellite Internet
Finally, mobile satellite internet is an option for those traveling to remote areas of the United States where mobile coverage is limited or nonexistent. Providers like Starlink and Inmarsat offer satellite internet services, allowing you to connect from virtually anywhere.
This option is ideal if you plan to explore national parks or mountainous regions where traditional mobile coverage does not reach. However, the cost of this technology is significantly higher and may require specialized equipment, which might not be feasible for all travelers.
Options for Fixed Internet Access in the United States
Explore the most efficient options for fixed internet access in the United States.
Explore the most efficient options for fixed internet access in the United States.
The United States offers a variety of fixed internet technologies, each with different features and requirements for subscription. Below, we explore the main options available for those seeking a stable connection at home or the workplace, along with what’s needed to access these services.
1. Fiber Optic
Fiber optic internet is the fastest and most advanced option available in the United States. This technology, based on glass fiber cables transmitting data via light pulses, enables extremely high download and upload speeds, exceeding 1 Gbps in some urban areas. It’s an excellent choice for data-heavy activities like remote work or high-definition streaming.
Companies such as Verizon Fios, AT&T Fiber, and Google Fiber offer this service in several cities and metropolitan areas. For example, Verizon Fios is available across much of the East Coast, while AT&T Fiber covers more than 21 states.
To subscribe to fiber optic internet, you need to meet some basic requirements. First, confirm that your address has access to this technology, as it’s not yet available in many rural areas. Once availability is confirmed, companies typically require proof of address, valid identification, and a payment card (credit or debit). Additionally, installation often requires a technician visit, which may involve a small additional cost.
2. Cable Internet
Cable internet is another widely available option in the United States, especially in areas where fiber optic hasn’t yet reached. It uses coaxial cables also used for cable TV, offering download speeds of up to 1 Gbps, though average speeds in many areas range between 100 and 500 Mbps. This technology is broadly accessible, making it a solid option for most households.
Companies like Comcast Xfinity and Spectrum dominate the cable internet market in the U.S. Xfinity has a strong presence in states such as California, Illinois, and Florida, while Spectrum covers states like New York, Texas, and Ohio.
To subscribe to cable internet, you’ll need a device compatible with this type of connection and an address where the service is available. Companies generally require an ID, proof of address, and a payment card. Installation is typically quick and involves a technician setting up a modem or router at your home.
3. Fixed Satellite Internet
Fixed satellite internet is an ideal solution for those living in rural or remote areas where other options like fiber or cable are unavailable. This technology uses orbiting satellites to transmit signals, covering virtually any part of the country. Speeds for this type of connection range from 12 Mbps to 100 Mbps, depending on location and provider.
Providers such as Viasat and HughesNet offer coverage throughout almost the entire United States, making them viable options for rural areas. Viasat, for example, offers plans with speeds of up to 100 Mbps, while HughesNet focuses on more affordable plans with speeds of up to 25 Mbps.
To set up satellite internet, you need a suitable location for installing a satellite dish with a clear view of the sky, ideally without obstructions. Companies typically require a long-term contract (one to two years), and initial costs may be higher due to the need for specialized equipment installation. As with other options, you’ll need valid identification, proof of address, and a credit or debit card for monthly payments.
4. WiMAX
WiMAX was a technology that aimed to bring broadband to areas without physical cables by using radio signals for internet access. However, with the advancement of 4G LTE and 5G networks, its use has significantly declined in the United States. Still, in some rural or remote areas, it remains a viable option for those without access to other technologies.
Although its coverage is limited and speeds are lower compared to other options, some local providers still offer WiMAX in certain states. Speeds usually range between 1 and 10 Mbps, making it a last-resort solution for users without other alternatives.
To access WiMAX service, you’ll need a signal receiver at home, and installation is usually simple as it doesn’t require cable infrastructure. However, availability is very limited, and the technology is gradually being replaced by more modern networks.
5. Other Technologies: DSL
In some areas where the above-mentioned options are unavailable, DSL, which uses telephone lines to transmit data, may be an option. While this technology offers slower speeds, ranging from 5 to 35 Mbps, it remains a common choice in rural areas or locations where modern alternatives haven’t yet been deployed.
Companies like AT&T and CenturyLink continue to offer this service in areas without fiber or cable coverage. Being more affordable and widely available, DSL can be an acceptable option for those who don’t require ultra-fast speeds.
When subscribing to DSL, requirements are similar to other technologies: valid identification, proof of address, and a payment card. Installation is often done through the existing telephone line, simplifying the process.
Which Mobile Devices Are Compatible in the United States?
When traveling to the United States, ensuring that your mobile device is compatible with the country’s networks is essential for maintaining a stable internet connection. Mobile networks in the U.S. operate on various bands and frequencies that may not be compatible with some phones purchased abroad, particularly those designed for European or Asian markets.
- Learn which mobile devices are compatible in the United States.
- Learn which mobile devices are compatible in the United States.
- With this in mind, let’s explore which devices are compatible for connecting to the internet in the United States.
Network Bands and Frequencies in the United States
The United States primarily uses 4G LTE and 5G networks, although in some rural areas, 3G networks are still operational, especially for emergency services. To ensure your device works properly, it must be compatible with the frequency bands used in the country. These are the main bands for 4G LTE and 5G in the U.S.:
- 4G LTE: Key bands include Band 2 (1900 MHz), Band 4 (1700/2100 MHz), Band 12 (700 MHz), Band 66 (1700/2100 MHz), and Band 71 (600 MHz).
- 5G: Common frequencies include Band n41 (2500 MHz), Band n66 (1700/2100 MHz), and millimeter-wave bands like n260 (39 GHz) and n261 (28 GHz), which are mostly found in dense urban areas.
If your mobile phone doesn’t support these bands, you may face issues connecting to networks from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or other local providers. Devices purchased outside the U.S., particularly in Europe or Asia, may not be compatible with some of the bands used in the country, especially for LTE and 5G networks.
Compatibility Issues with Mobile Devices
Most modern phones, such as iPhones from the iPhone 7 onward and Android devices from brands like Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel, support multiple bands and frequencies worldwide. However, not all international phones support all U.S. bands, which can affect signal quality and internet speed.
For example, some phones sold in Europe or Asia may work well on 3G or 4G networks in the U.S. but might not have access to 5G networks due to differences in frequencies. To ensure your device works seamlessly, check if it supports the bands mentioned above, particularly if you plan to use 5G networks.
Carrier Locks (Unlocked Devices)
Another common issue for travelers is carrier locking. Some phones purchased in other countries or through specific carriers come locked, meaning they can only operate on the original carrier’s network. For example, if you bought your phone through Vodafone in Europe or Telcel in Mexico, the carrier might lock it to their network, preventing it from connecting to U.S. networks unless you unlock it first.
Unlocking your phone is usually a straightforward process but varies by carrier. Generally, you’ll need to contact your phone’s original provider to request the unlock. You can typically do this before traveling, as long as you meet certain requirements, such as fully paying off the device or fulfilling a service contract.
What to Do If Your Device Is Not Compatible
If you find that your device is not compatible with U.S. networks or is locked, here are some solutions:
- Buy a Compatible Device in the U.S.: If you plan to stay for an extended period, you might want to purchase a phone directly in the U.S. since it will optimize for local bands and frequencies.
- Use an eSIM or International SIM: Some eSIMs or international SIMs are more flexible and may work even on devices that don’t support all bands, though speed or coverage might be limited.
- Unlock Your Device: Before traveling, contact your mobile service provider to unlock your phone. This will allow you to use local or international SIMs without issue.
Tips for Using Internet in the United States
Connecting to the internet in the United States can be straightforward if you keep a few key aspects in mind to ensure a secure and efficient experience. Here are some essential tips:
- Use a VPN for Added Security: When you connect to public networks, like those in cafes or airports, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security. This not only protects your personal information but also allows you to access geo-restricted or blocked content, such as your favorite streaming services.
- Access Local Services: Some platforms, like Hulu or certain Netflix versions, offer exclusive content in the U.S. A VPN can also help you access your local content if it’s unavailable in the U.S.
- Power Outlets and Adapters: In the U.S., outlets use a voltage of 120V with Type A/B plugs (two flat prongs or two flat prongs with a third round pin). If you’re coming from Europe, Asia, or Latin America, you’ll likely need a compatible plug adapter to charge your devices.
FAQs about accessing the Internet in the United States
Here are some of the most common questions about accessing the internet in the U.S.:
Can I use my international SIM in the United States?
Yes, most international SIMs work in the U.S., but it’s important to check whether your carrier offers roaming in the country and whether your device is compatible with local networks.
Is it necessary to use a VPN in the United States?
Using a VPN is not mandatory, but it’s recommended to protect your privacy and securely access geo-restricted or blocked content, especially when using public networks.
What mobile internet speeds can I expect in the United States?
4G LTE speeds range between 30 and 70 Mbps, while 5G can exceed 200 Mbps in urban areas.
Can I get fixed internet without being a U.S. resident?
Yes, many companies allow foreigners to sign up for fixed internet, though they may require a valid address and a local payment method.
Will my phone charger work in the United States?
If your charger supports voltages between 100V-240V, you’ll only need a plug adapter to use it properly.
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