Can You Get Internet Without a Phone Line or Cable Connection?

Time to debunk a very common myth. Home internet doesn’t necessarily require a cable or wire connection to your home anymore. Wireless internet or home WiFi services are commonly available in remote areas where phone lines or wired connections like cable, DSL, and fiber may not be available. If you’re worried you might lose connection to the online world in a remote area, we’re here to tell you nuh-uh!

Looking to get an internet connection without a cable or phone line. You’re at the right place. This blog explores:

The difference between wired and wireless Internet
Popular wireless internet connections in the U.S.
Top wireless internet providers
Wireless vs. wired internet – which is better?

What is the Difference Between Wired and Wireless Internet?

Wired internet connections like DSL, cable, and fiber require a network of cables or phone lines to travel from the provider’s station to residential areas. These connections are only available in places where the required infrastructure is in place. The quality of these cables also has an effect on the performance and quality of service that you receive at your home.

Wireless connections, as the name suggests, do not require any wired networks to reach your home. Instead, they use signal towers that act as a wireless network that transmits the internet from the source to your home.

Let’s explore some of the most popular wireless internet options in the country.

Popular Wireless Internet Connections in the U.S.

Satellite Internet

Satellite internet is one of the most widely available wireless connections, and it transmits data from satellites in space to a station on the ground, from where signals are further received on the satellite dish at your home. Depending on whether your service provider uses a GEO or LEO satellite will impact the stability, speeds, and reliability of your connection.

Fixed Wireless Internet

Fixed wireless internet is a type of internet that uses cell phone towers to transmit internet signals from their source station to your home. Depending on the radio signal band available in your area, you can access 4G or 5G home internet through this connection. Fixed wireless internet offers better reliability, faster speeds, and lower latency as compared to satellite internet.

Mobile Hotspots

Mobile providers often include a 4G or 5G hotspot service, which uses your mobile data as a WiFi for home internet use. All you need is a mobile plan that includes data for a hotspot, and simply connect that to your devices for internet coverage. This internet connection is quite similar to a 5G home internet service with equally reliable speeds, network consistency, and reliability.

Top Wireless Internet Providers

Hughesnet satellite Internet

Available all across the country
Free standard professional installation
Unlimited standard data included

Verizon 5G Home Internet

Available all across the country in limited areas
Up to 5-year price lock guarantee
Unlimited data included

Xfinity NOW WiFi Pass

Available in all Xfinity serviceable areas
Unlimited data on up to 2 devices
No equipment or installation required

Wireless vs. Wired Internet – Which is Better?

Both wireless and wired internet connections are advanced and reliable today. However, which would work better for you depends on multiple factors. First and foremost is availability. If you’re in a remote or rural area, you may not have the option to get a wired connection due to a lack of infrastructure. Secondly, if you frequently move for work or relocate, having a wireless connection is more convenient to move with you.

Thirdly, the internet speed that you need also plays a great role in deciding which connection would fit your requirements. Wired connections are faster compared to wireless internet. Let’s get a quick look at a side-by-side comparison of both internet types:

Wired Internet Connections	Wireless Internet Connections
Faster speeds – wired connections like fiber internet offer speeds of up to 1 Gig Lower latency – wired internet has ultra-low latency and exceptional response rate, ideal for high-speed users Secure connection – wired connections are safer to use due to their direct connection to your home	Convenient to move – it’s literally no strings attached. Easy to move! Flexible usage – you can connect as many devices as you require with no restriction on an ethernet wire. Less secure – wireless connections are easier to hack and attack

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get internet without a landline service?

Yes, you can get internet without a landline service by simply subscribing to a cable, fiber, satellite, or 5G home internet.

Are landline services still necessary?

While landline services are no longer necessary if you have a mobile phone with data for internet and voice services, however, in case of outages, landlines help you get clear reception during emergencies.

Do all wireless internet services include WiFi?
Yes, most wireless internet services have one or another form of WiFi functionality, which helps you connect your devices to the internet without any cables.