Internet providers in Madison, WI
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Prices from
$49.99
per month
Available speeds
300-1,000
Mbps
for 12 mos with Auto Pay.
Prices from
$55.00
per month
Available speeds
300-5,000
Mbps
Price after $5/mo Autopay & Paperless bill discount (w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge in TX, OH, NV applies. One time install charge may apply.
Prices from
$49.99
per month
Available speeds
15-200
Mbps
Why trust our broadband experts
Allconnect’s team of broadband experts regularly reviews the top internet service providers in the U.S., scrutinizing each company under a rigorous scoring system to help our readers make informed internet purchases. We keep our data points accurate and up to date based on thorough research and partnership communications. Our content is not directed by partners. Visit our full methodology page and advertising disclosure to learn more.
Madison, Wisconsin, is known for its offbeat quirkiness — as highlighted by its nickname, Madtown. But, “mad” or not, locals still need reliable high-speed internet for work and entertainment. Thankfully, Madison internet providers deliver with a wide range of plans and internet types, from DSL to fiber.
With plans from companies like AT&T, Spectrum and T-Mobile, and prices ranging from $40/mo. to $189.99/mo., Madison has an internet option for everyone. Read on for our take on the top five internet service providers in Madison.
Best internet providers in Madison, WI
- AT&T: Fastest fiber internet
- Spectrum: Best for cable bundles
- Hughesnet: Best satellite internet
- EarthLink: Best multi-connection provider
- T-Mobile Home Internet: Best fixed wireless internet
Madison internet comparison
Locals in Madison have plenty of options to choose from for their internet service, including several high-speed, gigabit internet plans. Top internet service providers in Madison include AT&T, Spectrum, Hughesnet, EarthLink and T-Mobile.
| Provider | Starting price range* | Download speed range | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | $55–$225/mo. | 300–5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Spectrum | $39.99–$59.99/mo. | 300–1,000 Mbps | Cable |
| Hughesnet | $49.99–$94.99/mo. | 50–100 Mbps | Satellite |
| EarthLink | $59.95–$189.95/mo. | 100–5,000 Mbps | Fiber, satellite, fixed wireless |
| T-Mobile Home Internet | $60/mo. | 72–245 Mbps | Fixed wireless |
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2024. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
How to choose a provider in Madison, WI
Finding the best internet provider in Madison is about more than just connection speed. To find the right plan for your needs, it’s important to consider several key factors:
- What are your priorities? Higher internet speeds are nice to have, but they’re also expensive. The trick is figuring out exactly how much it will take for you to avoid lags so you don’t pay for more than you need. Consider how you use the internet, from how many devices you have connected to how much streaming or gaming you do. The more demands you have, the more bandwidth you’ll need.
- What will you pay? When comparing internet plans, always look beyond the advertised price. Factor in taxes, installation/equipment fees and promotional pricing to understand what you’ll be paying now — and six months or a year from now.
- What else is included? It’s also important to consider more than just the basics of any given plan. Also take note of other features that add value. For instance, many providers offer internet + TV bundles or other ways to save on your home internet costs. Others offer big bonuses for signing up. Check for deals when comparing plans.
Madison internet provider reviews
With all that in mind, here’s an overview of each of our top internet service providers in Madison. Get fiber from AT&T and EarthLink, cable from Spectrum, satellite from Hughesnet or fixed wireless from T-Mobile.
AT&T – Best fiber internet
AT&T’s fiber network is available in 22 states, including Wisconsin. Plans of up to 5 GB are offered in parts of the city, allowing for some of the fastest streaming and gaming available. Prices range from $55 to $225/mo., and there are no contracts, data caps or early termination fees.
Overall score: 4.1 out of 5.
Read our full AT&T review.
Spectrum – Best for cable bundles
Spectrum’s cable network is among the best in the country and one of our top choices for Madison internet plans. With speeds of up to 1,000 GB, affordable intro pricing and contract-free options, Spectrum appeals to all kinds of internet users. Its cable TV bundles offer excellent value, but watch out for steep price increases down the road.
Overall score: 3.9 out of 5.
Read our full Spectrum review.
Hughesnet – Best satellite internet
Hughesnet offers satellite coverage virtually everywhere in the U.S., making it one of our top picks for internet in rural areas. Connection speeds are limited, topping out at only 100 Mbps, but that’s on par with typical satellite internet connections. Hughesnet plans are priced affordably but carry additional fees and data caps. You’ll also have to sign up for a two-year contract.
Overall score: 2.4 out of 5.
Read our full Hughesnet review.
EarthLink – Best multi-connection provider
EarthLink offers more connection options than most providers. Depending on where you are in Madison, you may have access to fiber, satellite or fixed wireless options. With so many service choices, prices can vary considerably — from $59.95 to $189.95/mo. plus additional fees. Speeds range from 100 to 5,000 Mbps, so EarthLink has a plan suitable for your typical internet activities, whether you just need a little browsing or heavy bandwidth for video calls.
Overall score: 3.75 out of 5.
Read our full EarthLink review.
T-Mobile Home Internet – Best fixed wireless internet
5G internet has become a stronger competitor in home internet in recent years, with T-Mobile contributing heavily to this growth. T-Mobile is available in many parts of Madison, with connection speeds of up to 245 Mbps. Pricing is especially great if you’re a T-Mobile wireless customer, at only $40/mo. There are no contracts, data caps or equipment fees, but you’ll pay $35 for your device connection.
Overall score: 4.1 out of 5.
Read our full T-Mobile review.
Cheap internet providers in Madison, WI
Madison internet providers offer plenty of choices for affordable service. Top ISPs like T-Mobile and Spectrum all have plans that start at $50/mo. or less and feature reasonable connection speeds for everyday internet use.
| Plan | Price* | Download speed | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile Home Internet | $40/mo.** | 72–245 Mbps | Fixed wireless |
| Spectrum | $39.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | Cable |
| Hughesnet | $50/mo. | 50 Mbps | Satellite |
**When bundled with a qualifying mobile plan.
Fastest internet in Madison, WI
Madtown residents have access to some of the fastest internet in the country. In fact, according to Ookla, Madison ranks in the top 40 among U.S. cities for its median internet speed of over 240 Mbps. Spectrum offers gigabit internet on its cable service, while EarthLink and AT&T both offer 5 GB fiber connections in some parts of the city.
| Plan | Price* | Download speed | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spectrum | $59.99/mo. | Up to 1,000 Mbps | Cable |
| EarthLink | $189.95/mo. | Up to 5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| AT&T | $225/mo. | Up to 5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
Madison internet technology
When it comes to internet service, a lot depends on the type of technology you use to connect to the web. Internet providers in Madison offer all the most common types of internet options, such as:
- Fiber internet: Fiber has set the standard for high-speed internet, offering connections of 5 GB or more in some areas. If you need zero-lag connections, fiber is the way to go. Just make sure it’s available at your home.
- Cable: Cable may not be as fast as fiber — especially its upload speeds — but it still offers a fairly fast, reliable connection. It’s also much more widely available, and it often comes with attractive TV bundles.
- Fixed wireless: Cell phone service for home internet? With 5G technology, it’s becoming increasingly popular. T-Mobile, Verizon and other wireless providers now offer home plans with connection speeds of 300 Mbps or more.
- Satellite: Satellite connections are much slower than other options, but they can reach almost anywhere. If you can’t find another plan in your area, choose from satellite providers like Hughesnet or Viasat.
- DSL: This phone-line-based technology is slowly going away, but some Madison internet providers still offer DSL plans. Where available, it can offer faster connection speeds than satellite alternatives.
Madison internet FAQs
How much does internet cost per month in Madison, WI?
Internet pricing in Madison varies by provider and plan type. Depending on which option you choose, you might pay anywhere from $39.99/mo. to $189.95/mo., not including any taxes or equipment fees.
Is fiber internet available in Madison, WI?
Yes, many parts of Madison have fiber internet from providers like AT&T and EarthLink. Enter your address on this page to find out if they offer service in your neighborhood.
How do I know which W-Fi is best in my area?
When choosing an internet provider, it’s best to compare their offerings across several categories, including speed, pricing, add-ons and customer service. If you enter your address, you can find the top providers in your area and read full reviews on each one.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
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