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Infrastructure

ISP (Internet Service Provider)

A company that provides internet access to consumers and businesses. Major U.S. ISPs include Comcast (Xfinity), Charter (Spectrum), AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

What It Means

The U.S. broadband market is highly concentrated: Comcast and Charter alone serve about 55% of all cable broadband subscribers. Many ZIP codes have only one or two wired ISPs, giving consumers limited choice. ISPs may offer service through multiple technologies — for example, AT&T provides both legacy DSL and fiber (AT&T Fiber) in different areas. Provider competition is weighted at 30% in the Broadband Grade because areas with more providers consistently see lower prices and better service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "ISP" mean?

A company that provides internet access to consumers and businesses. Major U.S. ISPs include Comcast (Xfinity), Charter (Spectrum), AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

Why does ISP matter for internet quality?

The U.S. broadband market is highly concentrated: Comcast and Charter alone serve about 55% of all cable broadband subscribers. Many ZIP codes have only one or two wired ISPs, giving consumers limited choice. ISPs may offer service through multiple technologies — for example, AT&T provides both lega...

Related Terms

Last Mile
The final leg of the network connecting the ISP's infrastructure to the customer's home or business. The last mile is typically the most expensive part of broadband deployment.
Provider Competition
The number of ISPs offering broadband service in a given area. Areas with three or more competitors typically have lower prices and faster speeds than monopoly or duopoly markets.
Municipal Broadband
Internet service owned and operated by a local government or public utility, rather than a private ISP. Often provides faster speeds at lower prices than incumbent providers.
Peering & Internet Exchange Points
The direct interconnection between internet networks where they exchange traffic without paying a third party. Peering quality directly affects the speed between your ISP and content providers.

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About This Data

Definitions based on FCC standards, industry specifications, and federal broadband policy. Speed benchmarks reflect 2024 FCC standards. See our methodology.