How to Compare the Wireless Internet Speed Between Verizon and AT&T

by Steven Hill , Demand Media

A wireless router allows a laptop user to access the Internet from anywhere in the house.

Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images

When considering potential Internet providers, the available data transfer speed offered by each provider is an important factor to take into account. In general, Internet users want the most speed for the least amount of money. AT&T; and Verizon both offer Internet connectivity solutions using wireless devices such as routers and modems. The speed of each company's Internet connections differ, depending on the service package desired.

Step 1

Open your Internet browser. Open two different tabs, if your browser is capable of tabbed browsing. Open a second instance of the browser, if it is incapable of tabbed browsing.

Step 2

Navigate to Verizon's homepage in one tab. Navigate to AT&T;'s homepage in the second tab.

Step 3

Place your cursor over the "Internet" tab near the top of Verizon's Website. Select the Internet connection type you wish to compare. This opens a new page displaying basic information about the service type. Select "Plans." This displays the speeds available under that service type. Verizon Internet services come with a wireless router.

Step 4

Open your AT&T; tab. Place your cursor over "Shop," then "Internet." This opens a menu showing AT&T;'s available Internet services. Some services, such as the company's "U-verse" packages, come with free wireless networking. With others, you must purchase a wireless router or modem. Click on the particular service you wish to compare. This displays a page with basic information about the service, including available speed tiers.

Step 5

Compare available service tiers between the two providers. Look at available download and upload speeds, as well as price. Larger numbers indicate faster speeds. However, speeds measured in "Mbps," or megabits per second, are faster than higher numbers measured in "Kbps," or kilobits per second. One megabit equals 1,000 kilobits.

References

  • Verizon: Internet
  • AT&T;: High Speed Internet Access

About the Author

Steven Hill began writing professionally in 2006. He has written many academic essays and is also an author of fiction, with short stories published in various e-magazines, including Sonar4 and Sinister Tales. He has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Wilfrid Laurier University.

Photo Credits

  • Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images