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Determining the Right Internet Speed for Your Needs in 2024

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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) defines “broadband”—a general term for high-speed internet, regardless of the connection technology—as having a download speed of 100Mbps and an upload speed of 20Mbps. While the FCC provides a “broadband speed guide,” another comprehensive guide has been developed.

These speeds represent the bare minimum required by the average internet user in 2024. However, individual needs may vary depending on factors such as budget, the number of devices connected to the internet simultaneously, and the intended use of those devices. For those who stream video or music as their main form of entertainment, it’s a good idea to aim for the FCC’s minimum broadband recommendation of 100Mbps for downloads. Most internet service providers (ISPs) in the US offer packages that meet or exceed this speed.

Even the typically slower satellite-based providers—who, due to their technology, can cover the entire country—offer 100Mbps speed tiers, as noted by BroadbandNow. (Though satellite providers often face other challenges, such as high latency, services like Starlink are actively addressing these issues.)

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