Centurylink vs. CNS

Whether you’re researching Centurylink vs. CNS internet service at your current address, comparing internet options for potential locations, or just researching alternatives, this detailed comparison will help you understand which provider best suits you.

Centurylink and CNS compete directly in approximately 0.02% of their service areas, with Centurylink covering 40,883,758 people nationwide and CNS serving 14,054. Centurylink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; CNS specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Centurylink and CNS's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees

Centurylink vs. CNS | Pros & Cons

Centurylink vs. CNS | Availability

Centurylink and CNS have distinct coverage footprints across the United States. Our interactive map shows exactly where each provider offers service and where they overlap, helping you understand your options.

Both Providers Available | Centurylink Available | CNS Available | No Coverage

Centurylink currently offers internet service in 5,322 cities and 572 counties across 20 states, reaching approximately 40,883,758 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Denver, CO. By comparison, CNS serves 14,054 residents in 24 cities and 4 counties in 1 state, with a presence in population centers such as Iowa Falls, IA; Ackley, IA; and Aplington, IA.

Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about Centurylink and CNS at your location, use our address search tool:

Centurylink vs. CNS | Speeds & Technology

Centurylink and CNS utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.

Across their service areas, Centurylink primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 93.9% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 18.5% of their coverage area. CNS relies on fiber technology, which comprises less than 1% of their network, with fixed wireless available in 100.0% of their service locations.

In terms of potential speeds across the country, Centurylink offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 238 Mbps compared to CNS's average speed of 51 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Centurylink delivers faster speeds in 22.37% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.00%, and slower speeds in 77.63%.

The availability of each provider's fastest technology varies significantly by location. Centurylink's premium Fiber service reaches 18.5% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, CNS's top-tier Fiber is available to 0.6% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Centurylink vs. CNS | Plans & Pricing

Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Centurylink, sourced directly from FCC-mandated machine-readable broadband labels to ensure transparency and accuracy. Unfortunately, CNS has not complied with FCC requirements to provide their broadband label data, limiting transparency and the ability for consumers to make direct comparisons.

We've included the available Centurylink plan details below to help you understand their offerings while we await CNS's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

Centurylink Plans

CNS Plans

Most households with 3-5 users need download speeds of at least 100 Mbps for smooth streaming, video conferencing, and everyday internet usage. Larger households or those with heavy users (gamers, 4K streamers, or remote workers) should consider plans with speeds of 300 Mbps or more for optimal performance.

Any prices listed are the base service rates and may not include additional charges such as equipment fees, installation costs, or other service-related expenses. For a comprehensive view of all potential charges, refer to our Fees & Details section below.

Centurylink vs. CNS | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate Centurylink and CNS based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.

When comparing customer satisfaction, Centurylink earns an overall rating of 3.31 / 5 stars from 163 customer reviews, while CNS maintains a 0.00 / 5 rating from 0 reviews. CNS outperforms Centurylink by 0.00 points in overall satisfaction. Centurylink's best-rated service is their fiber offering at 3.84 / 5 stars, compared to CNS's highest-rated service, , at 0.00 / 5 stars.

When comparing internet providers, remember that advertised prices rarely tell the complete story. Equipment fees alone can add $10-15 per month to your bill, while installation charges, early termination fees, and data overage penalties can significantly increase your total cost of service. Consider these additional costs alongside monthly rates when determining which provider offers the better value for your specific needs.

Centurylink vs. CNS | Top Cities

Centurylink serves 5,322 cities while CNS is available in 24 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.