Have you ever wondered if Verizon DSL is the right internet solution for you, and more importantly, what it actually costs? In an age dominated by lightning-fast fiber and widespread 5G home internet, the thought of DSL might seem a bit, well, dated. However, for some households, particularly those in rural or less-serviced areas, DSL can still be a viable option. Let's embark on a detailed journey to understand Verizon DSL's cost, its place in today's internet landscape, and what you should consider.
The Evolving Landscape of Verizon Internet
Before we dive into the specifics of DSL, it's crucial to understand Verizon's current internet offerings. Verizon has been heavily investing in and promoting its Fios (fiber-optic) internet and 5G Home Internet. These newer technologies offer significantly faster speeds and more reliable connections compared to traditional DSL. In many areas where Fios is available, DSL service for new customers has been phased out. Verizon has also been actively retiring its older 3G CDMA network, which indirectly affects older internet services that might have relied on legacy infrastructure. This means that if you're looking for new service, Verizon DSL might not even be an option in your area.
For existing DSL customers, Verizon continues to support the service, but they actively encourage migration to Fios or 5G Home Internet where available, often sweetening the deal with promotions and discounts.
Understanding Verizon DSL Costs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating internet pricing can be tricky, with various factors influencing the final monthly bill. Here's a step-by-step guide to understanding Verizon DSL costs.
Step 1: Determine if Verizon DSL is Even Available in Your Area (and Engage!)
"Before we talk about cost, let's figure out if it's even on the table for you! Where are you located? Knowing your general area (state and ideally zip code) is the absolute first step in determining if Verizon DSL is an option. If it's not, we can save you a lot of time looking at pricing that doesn't apply to you!"
Verizon DSL, often referred to as "Verizon High Speed Internet (DSL)," has a shrinking footprint. In areas where Verizon Fios is available, new DSL installations are typically no longer offered. This is because fiber-optic technology is superior in terms of speed and reliability.
How to Check Availability:
The most reliable way is to visit the official Verizon website and use their availability checker. You'll typically enter your street address and zip code.
Alternatively, you can call Verizon's sales or customer service line. Be prepared to provide your full address.
Keep in mind that even if DSL was available in the past, it might not be for new sign-ups.
Step 2: Understanding the Base Monthly Cost
If DSL is available, the base monthly cost is the starting point. This price can vary depending on the speed tier offered in your specific location.
Typical DSL Speed Tiers and Associated Costs:
DSL speeds are significantly lower than fiber or 5G home internet. You might see advertised speeds of up to 15 Mbps.
Based on recent information, a standalone Verizon DSL plan could be around $40 per month for speeds up to 15 Mbps.
It's important to note that these speeds are "up to," and actual speeds can be lower due to factors like distance from the central office and line quality.
Step 3: Unpacking Potential Additional Fees and Charges
The advertised base price is rarely the final price you pay. Several additional fees can add to your monthly bill.
Equipment Rental Fees:
You will likely need a modem to connect to the DSL service. Verizon may charge a monthly modem rental fee. This can add $10-$15 per month to your bill. Sometimes, promotional offers might waive this fee for a limited period.
Consider purchasing your own compatible modem if you plan to keep the service long-term. This can save you money in the long run.
Installation Fees:
Professional installation may come with a one-time fee. This can range from $0 to $99, depending on current promotions and whether self-installation is an option.
Sometimes, signing up online or during specific promotions can lead to waived installation fees.
Taxes and Government Fees:
Like all internet services, your Verizon DSL bill will include various federal, state, and local taxes and regulatory fees. These are typically a small percentage of your total bill but are unavoidable.
Early Termination Fees (ETFs):
Be extremely cautious about contracts. While many internet providers are moving away from contracts, some DSL plans might still have them, especially if you get a promotional rate.
If you cancel service before the contract term is up, you could face an early termination fee, which can be substantial (e.g., up to $350, decreasing over time).
Step 4: Exploring Bundles and Discounts
Verizon often offers discounts when you bundle services, and existing Verizon customers (especially mobile users) might be eligible for special rates.
Bundling with Home Phone Service:
Historically, Verizon DSL was often bundled with a traditional landline phone service. This might still be an option, and bundling could offer a slight discount compared to separate services. For instance, a "High Speed Internet Enhanced + Freedom Essentials" bundle has been seen around $74.99 per month.
Verizon Mobile + Home Discount:
If you're a Verizon Wireless customer with a postpaid mobile phone plan, you might be eligible for the Mobile + Home Discount, which can save you around $15-$20 per month on your home internet service. This is a significant saving and is often applied to Fios or 5G Home Internet plans, but it's worth checking if it applies to DSL if that's your only option.
Promotional Offers:
Keep an eye out for temporary promotions like gift cards for new sign-ups or introductory pricing for the first 12 or 24 months. Remember that these introductory prices will increase after the promotional period ends.
Step 5: Considering the Value Proposition and Alternatives
Once you understand the potential costs, it's essential to assess the value. DSL offers lower speeds than modern alternatives.
Speed vs. Cost:
For around $40-$50 per month, you might get speeds of up to 15 Mbps with DSL.
Compare this to Verizon Fios, where plans can start as low as $34.99 per month (with Auto Pay and a Verizon mobile plan) for 300 Mbps symmetrical speeds. This is a massive difference in speed for a potentially lower or comparable price.
Verizon 5G Home Internet is another strong contender, with plans starting around $35-$50 per month (with Auto Pay and qualifying mobile plans) for speeds up to 300 Mbps or more.
When DSL Might Be Your Only Option:
In some very specific, underserved rural areas, DSL might be the only wired broadband option available from Verizon. In such cases, the cost becomes less about comparison and more about necessity.
Even then, explore other alternatives like satellite internet (e.g., Starlink, HughesNet, Viasat) or fixed wireless providers if available in your area, as they might offer better speeds or value.
Step 6: Reviewing Your Bill and Monitoring for Changes
Once you're a customer, it's crucial to regularly review your bill.
Price Increases:
Introductory pricing often expires after 12 or 24 months, leading to a significant price hike.
Verizon, like other providers, may also implement general price increases for services over time.
Monitor your bill for these changes and be prepared to renegotiate or explore other options.
Equipment Returns:
If you ever cancel service, ensure you return all rented equipment promptly to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check Verizon DSL availability in my area?
You can check Verizon DSL availability by visiting the Verizon website and entering your full address and zip code in their internet availability checker, or by calling Verizon customer service directly.
How to lower my Verizon DSL bill?
To lower your Verizon DSL bill, look for bundling opportunities with Verizon mobile service, inquire about retention deals if you're an existing customer, consider purchasing your own modem to eliminate rental fees, and regularly review your bill for promotional expirations.
How to upgrade from Verizon DSL to Fios?
To upgrade from Verizon DSL to Fios, first check Fios availability at your address on the Verizon website. If available, contact Verizon customer service or sales to discuss upgrade options and schedule installation.
How to return Verizon DSL equipment?
If you're canceling service, Verizon will provide instructions on how to return your DSL equipment. This typically involves shipping it back using a provided label or dropping it off at a designated Verizon store or return location to avoid unreturned equipment charges.
How to understand Verizon DSL speeds?
Verizon DSL speeds are typically much lower than fiber or 5G home internet, often advertised as "up to 15 Mbps." Actual speeds can vary based on your distance from Verizon's central office and the condition of the copper lines.
How to compare Verizon DSL to 5G Home Internet?
Verizon DSL is a wired, copper-based service with lower speeds, while 5G Home Internet uses Verizon's wireless 5G network, offering significantly faster speeds (often 300 Mbps or more) and competitive pricing, especially for existing Verizon mobile customers.
How to tell if Verizon is phasing out DSL in my area?
Verizon is actively phasing out DSL in areas where Fios or 5G Home Internet is available. If you cannot sign up for new DSL service on their website, or if customer service directs you to Fios or 5G options, it's likely being phased out.
How to get the best deal on Verizon internet as an existing DSL customer?
As an existing DSL customer, the best deals often involve migrating to Verizon Fios or 5G Home Internet, especially if you have a Verizon mobile plan. Inquire about loyalty discounts or specific upgrade promotions.
How to avoid early termination fees with Verizon DSL?
To avoid early termination fees, ensure you are not signing a contract when subscribing to Verizon DSL. If you are, be mindful of the contract length and wait for it to expire before canceling or switching providers.
How to troubleshoot slow Verizon DSL speeds?
To troubleshoot slow Verizon DSL speeds, first restart your modem/router. Check for any known service outages in your area. Ensure your equipment is up-to-date and properly connected. If issues persist, contact Verizon technical support, as it could be a line issue.
