If you are a resident of Delaware searching for reliable high-speed internet, you have several competitive options, particularly when it comes to fast fiber-optic and cable connections in the northern and central parts of the state.
The primary internet providers in Delaware are Xfinity (Cable), Verizon (Fiber/DSL/5G), and T-Mobile Home Internet (5G). Verizon Fios offers the fastest fiber speeds (up to 2 Gbps) in cities like Wilmington and Newark, while Xfinity provides the most widespread cable coverage across the state.
This comprehensive guide details the types of internet available in Delaware, compares the top providers, and offers advice on choosing the best connection for your specific address.
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Top Internet Providers in Delaware by Connection Type
Delaware is a well-connected state, ranking highly for fiber availability, though cable and 5G are the most widespread technologies.
| Provider | Connection Type | Maximum Speeds (Advertised) | Primary Coverage Area |
| Xfinity (Comcast) | Cable (with limited Fiber) | Up to 2 Gig (2000 Mbps) | Most Widely Available (Covers over 80% of the state) |
| Verizon Fios | Fiber (FTTH) | Up to 2 Gig (2300 Mbps) | Strongest in Newark, Wilmington, and Northern Delaware |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | 5G/Fixed Wireless | Up to ~415 Mbps (Varies by location) | Wide coverage, including areas where Fios/Xfinity fiber lines are limited. |
| Mediacom (Xtream) | Cable | Up to 1 Gig (1000 Mbps) | Pockets in Southern Delaware (e.g., Georgetown, Millsboro) |
| HughesNet / Viasat | Satellite | Up to 150 Mbps | 100% Coverage (Best for very rural areas) |
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Choosing the Best Internet Connection
Your location in Delaware heavily dictates your best provider, but Fiber remains the fastest and most reliable option where available.
Fiber Optic Internet (Verizon Fios & EarthLink)
- Best For: Streaming 4K/8K video, competitive gaming, working from home with heavy file uploads, and large households.
- Pros: Offers symmetrical speeds (upload speed matches download speed), superior reliability, and lower latency.
- Availability: Concentrated in the northern, urban, and suburban corridors (New Castle County, Dover, Middletown).
Cable Internet (Xfinity & Mediacom)
- Best For: Affordable high-speed downloads, general browsing, and streaming.
- Pros: Widely available across the state and often offers competitive introductory pricing.
- Cons: Speeds are generally asymmetrical (uploads are much slower than downloads) and can slow down during neighborhood peak usage times (e.g., evenings).
5G Home Internet (T-Mobile & Verizon)
- Best For: Users who cannot access Fiber or Cable, or those seeking easy setup and clear, low pricing (no hidden fees).
- Pros: Simple plug-and-play setup, no annual contracts, and prices typically include taxes and fees.
- Cons: Speeds are variable and dependent on cellular signal strength and proximity to the tower.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which internet provider offers the fastest speed in Delaware?
Verizon Fios and Xfinity both offer plans with peak download speeds of up to 2 Gig (2000 Mbps) or higher in their service areas. Verizon Fios is generally recognized for providing the fastest average speed and most consistent connection due to its 100% fiber network.
Is Verizon Fios available throughout the entire state of Delaware?
No. Verizon Fios availability is concentrated in the most populated areas of Northern and Central Delaware (Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, and Dover). For rural areas, you will need to check availability for 5G Home Internet or Satellite options.
What is the cheapest internet option in Delaware?
The cheapest option is typically either a satellite provider’s introductory plan (like HughesNet) or a promotional plan from a cable provider like Mediacom (often starting around $19.99/mo). For fast service, Verizon Fios offers great value when bundled with a mobile line (as low as $34.99/mo. for 300 Mbps).
Conclusion
The best internet providers in Delaware depend heavily on your address. Residents in northern cities should prioritize Verizon Fios for its speed and reliability, while Xfinity provides excellent high-speed cable coverage throughout the state. Always use the provider’s online availability checker to see which connection types are available at your home.
