Top Internet Providers in Norfolk Offering Fast Speeds and Affordable Plans

Norfolk residents seeking reliable internet service have several options, with Cox Communications standing out as the top provider due to its fast speeds and extensive coverage across approximately 93% of the city. Cox offers cable internet plans ranging from 100Mbps to 2Gbps, with a premium 2Gbps plan priced at $120 per month, featuring no contracts or extra equipment fees.

For households where Cox is unavailable, Verizon Fios and T-Mobile Home Internet provide strong alternatives. Verizon Fios offers fiber plans up to 2.3Gbps with prices ranging from $50 to $110 monthly, while T-Mobile’s fixed wireless service delivers speeds between 87Mbps and 415Mbps, with discounted rates for eligible mobile customers. Verizon’s 5G Home Internet also serves as a fixed wireless option, offering up to 1Gbps speeds.

Budget-conscious consumers can consider Metronet, which offers fiber internet plans starting at $35 per month for 150Mbps speeds and up to 2Gbps for $70 monthly. This provider is available to a smaller portion of Norfolk residents but stands out for its affordability and lack of equipment fees or data caps.

When evaluating internet speed needs, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommends minimum download speeds based on usage: 0-5Mbps for basic browsing, 5-40Mbps for HD streaming and videoconferencing, 40-100Mbps for telecommuting and gaming, and over 500Mbps for multiple users engaged in high-bandwidth activities simultaneously. Norfolk’s median internet speed is 303Mbps, surpassing nearby Richmond’s 253Mbps, indicating generally robust connectivity.

Consumers should also consider equipment fees, data caps, and contract requirements when choosing a provider. Cox charges an optional $15 equipment fee and enforces a 1.25TB data cap, while Metronet and Verizon Fios offer no data caps or equipment fees. Most providers in Norfolk do not require contracts, providing flexibility for customers.

Satellite internet options like HughesNet, Viasat, and Starlink are available citywide but generally offer slower speeds and higher prices, making them less desirable compared to cable and fiber options.

To find the best deals, consumers should monitor promotions from providers such as Cox and Spectrum, which occasionally offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons. Verizon and T-Mobile typically maintain consistent pricing year-round but provide discounts for qualifying mobile customers.

CNET’s methodology for recommending internet providers in Norfolk includes analyzing pricing, availability, speed data, and customer satisfaction scores from sources like the FCC, American Customer Satisfaction Index, and J.D. Power. Providers that balance speed, value, and customer happiness receive top recommendations.

Key Takeaways for Norfolk Internet Users

• Cox Communications offers the widest coverage and fastest cable internet plans, including a 2Gbps option without contracts.
• Fiber internet is limited but available through Verizon Fios and Metronet, providing high speeds and no data caps.
• Budget plans start as low as $35 per month with Metronet or discounted T-Mobile and Verizon wireless plans.
• Satellite internet is widely available but generally less desirable due to higher costs and slower speeds.

Understanding your household’s internet speed needs and monitoring local promotions can help maximize value and performance.

As Norfolk’s broadband landscape evolves, opportunities exist for expanded fiber access and competitive pricing, making it essential for consumers and businesses to stay informed on provider offerings and technological advancements.