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EarthLink Internet: Plans, Prices & Review
EarthLink internet is a provider that resells fiber, 5G home, and DSL service, offering symmetrical fiber up to 5 Gig and a contract-free 5G Home plan. Fiber plans run about $40–$65/mo (with a 12-month term), while 5G Home is around $80/mo with no contract. EarthLink is one of the oldest names in U.S. internet.
TL;DR — key takeaways
- Type: resold fiber (symmetrical), 5G Home wireless, and DSL, depending on address.
- Plans: Fiber 100 Mbps to 5 Gig; 5G Home up to ~425 Mbps.
- Price: fiber ~$40–$65/mo (12-mo term); 5G Home ~$80/mo (no contract).
- Fees: modem rental ~$15/mo; unlimited data on fiber.
What is EarthLink internet?
EarthLink internet is a nationwide reseller that packages fiber, 5G fixed-wireless, and DSL from underlying networks under its own brand and support. Its fiber plans are 100% symmetrical, while its 5G Home plan uses cellular networks and requires no contract. Availability and technology depend on your address.
EarthLink plans and prices
| Plan | Speed | Typical price* | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 100 | 100 / 100 Mbps | from ~$40/mo | Everyday use |
| Fiber 1 Gig | 1000 Mbps | ~$65/mo (after promo) | Families, remote work |
| Fiber 5 Gig | up to 5000 Mbps | higher | Power users (select areas) |
| 5G Home | up to ~425 Mbps | ~$80/mo | Areas without fiber; no contract |
*Fiber plans include a 12-month agreement; a modem rents for ~$15/mo and pro install is ~$25. Confirm the current offer on EarthLink’s site.
Who owns EarthLink?
EarthLink is a privately held internet company (owned by Trive Capital) that has operated since the 1990s. Rather than building its own last-mile network, it resells and packages service from partner fiber and wireless providers.
Is EarthLink internet good and worth it?
EarthLink internet can be worth it where its fiber is available — you get symmetrical speeds and unlimited data, plus a single bill and support. The watch-outs are the 12-month fiber agreement, the modem rental fee, and pricing that jumps after the promo period, so read the terms before signing.
How much does EarthLink cost per month?
EarthLink fiber costs about $40/mo promotionally, rising toward $65/mo after six months, plus a ~$15/mo modem rental. The 5G Home plan is about $80/mo with no contract. Data is unlimited on fiber plans.
Is EarthLink better than AT&T?
EarthLink often resells the same fiber lines as carriers like AT&T, so raw speeds can be similar. AT&T tends to be cheaper and contract-flexible on its own fiber, while EarthLink’s value is bundling multiple technologies and service under one provider — useful where you want a single point of contact.
Does EarthLink require a contract, deposit, or have a data cap?
EarthLink’s fiber plans require a 12-month agreement with an early termination fee, while its 5G Home plan has no contract. Fiber includes unlimited data; fixed-wireless plans may have limits. A modem rental fee applies, and a credit check may be required.
How do I cancel or contact EarthLink?
You can cancel EarthLink by contacting EarthLink customer service by phone or online, but note fiber plans may carry an early termination fee within the term; return leased equipment to avoid charges. To start service, use the EarthLink website. Comparing options? See our roundup of the best internet providers for 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is EarthLink internet good?
Yes where its fiber is available — EarthLink internet offers symmetrical speeds and unlimited data. Watch for the 12-month fiber term, modem fee, and post-promo price increase.
How much is EarthLink internet per month?
Fiber is about $40/mo promotionally (rising to ~$65), plus ~$15/mo modem rental; 5G Home is about $80/mo with no contract.
Who owns EarthLink?
EarthLink is privately held (owned by Trive Capital) and resells fiber and wireless service under its own brand.
Does EarthLink have a data cap?
Fiber plans include unlimited data; fixed-wireless plans may have data limits. Fiber requires a 12-month agreement.
Is EarthLink fiber or wireless?
Both — EarthLink offers resold fiber where available and a 5G Home wireless plan elsewhere, plus DSL in some areas.
