Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks
Whether you’re researching Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks 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.
| Windstream |
|---|
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| Price: $39.99 - $99.99 / mo. |
| Speed: 10 - 2,000 Mbps |
| Internet Type: DSL, fiber, fixed wireless, and cable |
Rating (Reviews): (87) |
| Live Wire Networks |
|---|
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| Price: Unavailable, please see site for details |
| Speed: 250 Mbps |
| Internet Type: Fixed wireless |
Rating (Reviews): (0) |
Windstream and Live Wire Networks compete directly in approximately 0.00% of their service areas, with Windstream covering 8,666,574 people nationwide and Live Wire Networks serving 914,300. Windstream primarily delivers internet through a DSL connection; Live Wire Networks specializes in fixed wireless connections. Jump directly to specific sections using the links below, or continue reading for our comprehensive comparison of Windstream and Live Wire Networks’s availability, speeds, pricing, and customer satisfaction.
Jump to: Availability | Speeds | Plans & Pricing | Customer Reviews | Fees
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Pros & Cons

Pros:
- Fast upload speeds
- Service available in rural areas
- Offers discounted intro pricing
- Wide range of plan options
Cons:
- Limited service availability
- Installation fees apply
- Contracts required for best pricing

Pros:
- Fast upload speeds
- Compatible with standard Wi-Fi devices
- Connects multiple devices simultaneously
- Works with smart home devices
Cons:
- Limited service availability
- Limited fiber availability
- Coverage strength varies within service areas
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Availability
Windstream and Live Wire Networks 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 | Windstream Available | Live Wire Networks Available | No Coverage
Windstream currently offers internet service in 5,504 cities and 713 counties across 19 states, reaching approximately 8,666,574 residents. Their service area includes major markets like Charlotte, NC; Atlanta, GA; and Lexington, KY. By comparison, Live Wire Networks serves 914,300 residents in 41 cities and 5 counties in 1 state, with a presence in population centers such as Denver, CO; Boulder, CO; and Arvada, CO.
Internet availability can vary significantly even within specific cities and zip codes. For the most accurate information about Windstream and Live Wire Networks at your location, use our address search tool:
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Speeds & Technology
Windstream and Live Wire Networks utilize different network technologies to deliver internet service, resulting in varying speed capabilities across their service areas.
Across their service areas, Windstream primarily delivers internet through DSL, available to 96.4% of their customers. They also offer fiber to 50.4% of their coverage area. Live Wire Networks relies on fixed wireless technology, which comprises 100.0% of their network, this is the only connection type they offer.
In terms of potential speeds across the country, Windstream offers higher overall speeds, with speeds for most covered areas averaging 807 Mbps compared to Live Wire Networks’s average speed of 250 Mbps.
The availability of each provider’s fastest technology varies significantly by location. Windstream’s premium Fiber service reaches 50.4% of their coverage area. Meanwhile, Live Wire Networks’s top-tier fixed wireless is available to 100.0% of their footprint. Even within the same technology type, speed offerings can vary based on local infrastructure investments.
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Plans & Pricing
Below are the current internet plans and pricing details for Windstream and Live Wire Networks, drawn from our independently maintained pricing database. The source and verification date for each provider's plans are noted beneath the table.
Provider representatives can send plan or pricing updates through our contact page; verified changes publish shortly after review.
Windstream Internet Plans & Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Typical Download Speed | Typical Upload Speed | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 100 Mbps | $19.99 | 100 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber 300 Mbps | $34.99 | 300 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber 1 Gig | $39.99 | 1000 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber 2 Gig | $59.99 | 2000 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
| Fiber Max 2 Gig | $79.99 | 2000 Mbps | Not listed | Fiber |
Sourced from pricing published on Windstream's official website. These provider-reported typical speeds reflect plan-specific expectations, while speed metrics elsewhere on our site measure maximum available performance across areas. Pricing is subject to change and may not be available in all areas.
Live Wire Networks Internet Plans & Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Price | Typical Download Speed | Typical Upload Speed | Connection Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FastLink 25-50M | $25.00 | 50 Mbps | Not listed | Fixed Wireless |
| FastLink+ 50-75M | $35.00 | 75 Mbps | Not listed | Fixed Wireless |
Sourced from pricing published on Live Wire Networks's official website. These provider-reported typical speeds reflect plan-specific expectations, while speed metrics elsewhere on our site measure maximum available performance across areas. Pricing is subject to change and may not be available in all areas.
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.
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Customer Ratings & Reviews
Compare how real customers rate Windstream and Live Wire Networks based on our comprehensive database of verified customer reviews across all service types.
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Fees & Details
Beyond advertised monthly rates, additional fees and service details significantly impact your total internet costs. The tables below outline equipment charges, installation fees, contract terms, data caps, and other important factors to consider when comparing these providers. Understanding these details helps you avoid unexpected costs and choose the plan that offers the best overall value.
Windstream Service
Fee
Not Provided by Windstream
Live Wire Networks Service
Fee
Not Provided by Live Wire Networks
Fees vary by plan and location. The fees shown apply to most plans; check with the provider for costs specific to your plan.
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.
Windstream vs. Live Wire Networks | Top Cities
Windstream serves 5,504 cities while Live Wire Networks is available in 41 cities nationwide. The tables below highlight their largest markets and areas where customers can choose between both providers.
Windstream Cities
- Availability: 24.82%
- Avg. Download Speed: 689 Mbps
- Availability: 5.25%
- Avg. Download Speed: 992 Mbps
- Availability: 94.71%
- Avg. Download Speed: 570 Mbps
- Availability: 13.15%
- Avg. Download Speed: 1,038 Mbps
- Availability: 93.13%
- Avg. Download Speed: 388 Mbps
Overlapping Cities
Windstream and Live Wire Networks don't compete in any cities.
We still compare these non-competing providers because many of our users are researching internet options for different locations—whether for an upcoming move, a second home purchase, or simply to understand regional differences in internet service. This comparison helps you evaluate both providers based on the same criteria, giving you valuable insight regardless of where you currently live.
Live Wire Networks Cities
- Availability: 24.69%
- Avg. Download Speed: 250 Mbps
- Availability: 90.32%
- Avg. Download Speed: 250 Mbps
- Availability: 41.53%
- Avg. Download Speed: 250 Mbps
- Availability: 38.73%
- Avg. Download Speed: 250 Mbps
- Availability: 7.32%
- Avg. Download Speed: 250 Mbps
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