With remote work now a long-term norm, reliable internet is as critical as payroll. For distributed teams, ensuring each employee has stable, high-speed access isn’t just a productivity concern—it’s essential for video calls, file sharing, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity. Here’s a breakdown of the best internet providers for remote work, and how to choose based on speed, availability, and support.
- Verizon Fios
- Best for: Teams in the Northeast U.S. needing fast uploads and downloads
- Perks: Symmetrical gigabit speeds, no data caps, low latency ideal for Zoom or Teams
- Coverage: Strong in urban and suburban areas
- Explore plans: Verizon Fios Internet
- AT&T Fiber
- Best for: Remote workers in Southern and Midwest regions
- Perks: Up to 5 Gbps fiber speeds, multiple plan tiers, solid uptime
- Coverage: Expanding footprint across the U.S.
- Explore plans: AT&T Fiber
- Spectrum Internet
- Best for: Remote employees in areas without fiber
- Perks: No contracts, high availability, solid cable speeds (up to 1 Gbps in select areas)
- Coverage: Widespread across urban and rural zones
- Explore plans: Spectrum Business Internet
- Xfinity Internet
- Best for: Fast setup and flexible bundle options
- Perks: Competitive pricing, equipment included, and streaming perks
- Coverage: Available in most metro regions
- Explore plans: Xfinity Internet Plans
- Google Fiber
- Best for: Ultra-fast connections in supported cities
- Perks: Up to 2 Gbps speeds, flat pricing, no contracts
- Coverage: Still limited, but expanding (Austin, Kansas City, Nashville, etc.)
- Explore plans: Google Fiber
Tips for Teams Managing Internet Remotely
- Provide reimbursement or stipends for high-speed plans to ensure consistency
- Standardize speed requirements (e.g., minimum 200 Mbps download) for cloud app performance
- Offer tech support or consult on modem/router upgrades to help employees avoid outdated gear
- Encourage wired connections when possible to minimize dropouts during calls or screen sharing
Your remote team’s success depends heavily on the quality of each employee’s internet. By partnering with the right providers—and offering support where needed—you can eliminate frustration, reduce downtime, and protect performance no matter where your team is located.