Centurylink vs. First Step Internet

Whether you’re researching Centurylink vs. First Step Internet 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 First Step Internet compete directly in approximately 0.17% of their service areas, with Centurylink covering 40,883,758 people nationwide and First Step Internet serving 158,852. Centurylink primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; First Step Internet specializes in fiber connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Centurylink and First Step Internet's availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.

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

Centurylink vs. First Step Internet | Pros & Cons

Centurylink vs. First Step Internet | Availability

Centurylink and First Step Internet 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 | First Step Internet 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, First Step Internet serves 158,852 residents in 100 cities and 11 counties in 2 states, with a presence in population centers such as Lewiston, ID; Moscow, ID; and Pullman, WA.

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

Centurylink vs. First Step Internet | Speeds & Technology

Centurylink and First Step Internet 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. First Step Internet relies on fiber technology, which comprises 8.5% of their network, with fixed wireless available in 99.9% 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 First Step Internet's average speed of 114 Mbps. When examining their overlapping service areas, Centurylink delivers faster speeds in 58.35% of locations where both providers operate, similar speeds in 0.39%, and slower speeds in 41.26%.

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, First Step Internet's top-tier Fiber is available to 8.5% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.

Centurylink vs. First Step Internet | 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, First Step Internet 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 First Step Internet's compliance with federal transparency requirements.

Centurylink Plans

First Step Internet 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. First Step Internet | Customer Ratings & Reviews

Compare how real customers rate Centurylink and First Step Internet 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 First Step Internet maintains a 0.00 / 5 rating from 0 reviews. First Step Internet 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 First Step Internet'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. First Step Internet | Top Cities

Centurylink serves 5,322 cities while First Step Internet is available in 100 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.