What You Need to Know: Ookla’s latest Speedtest Connectivity Report for the first half of 2025 recognizes AT&T Fiber as the fastest fixed ISP in the U.S., boasting a median download speed of 363.54 Mbps and a Speed Score of 78.33. Frontier Fiber follows closely with a speed of 359 Mbps.
AT&T has claimed this top position for three consecutive reports from Ookla, which factors in download/upload speeds and latency. T-Mobile, on the other hand, leads the mobile sector with a median speed of 245 Mbps and earns top accolades for its 5G service.
- Frontier Fiber and Verizon Fios are in the following ranks for fixed broadband, while cable providers like Cox, Xfinity, and Spectrum occupy lower positions. This trend illustrates the superior performance of fiber compared to cable in practical scenarios.
- The report relies on millions of Speedtest.net runs, requiring ISPs to hold at least a 3% market share for ranking. Notably, regional players like Google Fiber are absent from the list despite their impressive city-specific results.
- Regionally, AT&T Fiber shines, leading speeds in 14 U.S. regions, whereas Xfinity dominates in eight areas, revealing how local conditions can influence internet speeds.
Why Does This Matter?
- Speed tests such as Ookla’s provide unbiased snapshots of average user experiences, cutting through the hype surrounding maximum speed claims. This transparency is particularly crucial in a time when fiber connectivity is booming.
- With AT&T’s median upload speed hitting 296 Mbps, fiber networks outperform cable, catering to increasing demands in 4K streaming, online gaming, and remote work. This aligns with global records, such as Japan’s jaw-dropping 402 Tbps achievements in laboratory settings.
- T-Mobile’s leadership in mobile speeds highlights the growing importance of 5G, while fixed broadband remains essential for maintaining network stability, especially as households use multiple connected devices.
- Insights from this report can influence ACSI scores, where AT&T ties with T-Mobile for user satisfaction, urging providers to expand fiber options amidst ongoing industry changes like Verizon’s acquisition of Frontier.
Why Should You Care? Not every ISP provides the same service at every address; understanding this data can help you choose better options, such as relying on Verizon Fios for gaming or T-Mobile for mobile backup plans.
- Due to rising costs, these speed insights can justify switching providers. Pair this information with our best home internet bundles guide to find savings on TV and internet packages.
- To prepare for future needs, take note of fiber’s advantages and consider moving away from traditional cable. AT&T’s strong consumer ratings (3.7 out of 5) add an element of trust as you explore options.
What Lies Ahead? We can expect competition to heat up, particularly in urban areas where players like Google Fiber push boundaries. Additionally, look for evolving 5G and fiber combinations, especially as T-Mobile hints at introducing faster internet gateways. Satellite internet providers, such as Starlink, are notably absent from this report but may influence future connectivity trends.
What amenities should I look for in an internet service provider? It’s important to consider factors like speed, reliability, customer service, and pricing when selecting an internet service provider to ensure you get the best value.
How do median speeds impact my internet experience? Median speeds give a more accurate representation of everyday performance rather than just peak speeds, helping you better understand what to expect from your service.
Is fiber internet really faster than cable? Yes, fiber typically offers faster upload and download speeds than cable, along with lower latency, enhancing activities like streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.
What should I do if my internet speed is slower than expected? If your internet speed is not meeting your expectations, consider restarting your router, checking for network congestion, or contacting your ISP for assistance.
If you’re considering a switch, take your time to explore these insights further. For additional resources, check out Moyens I/O for comprehensive guides and recommendations.