For tech enthusiasts seeking fast, reliable home internet coupled with robust TV entertainment options, CenturyLink – Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offers one of the most compelling bundled services on the market today. By combining their high-speed internet plans with DIRECTV’s satellite TV packages, CenturyLink offers a one-stop connectivity solution for households nationwide.
This guide will delve into the features, pricing, availability, and overall value proposition of CenturyLink’s bundling options, aiding you in deciding if it’s the right provider for your connected home.
Overview of CenturyLink Internet and TV Bundle
As one of the largest ISPs in the U.S., CenturyLink offers both DSL and fiber-optic home internet plans across 40 states. They partner with DIRECTV, the satellite TV provider with over 140 channels, to offer bundled packages including both internet and TV services.
The appeal of bundling lies in the convenience and potential cost savings of consolidating services with a single provider. Centurylink internet and tv bundle aims to provide reliable, high-speed internet alongside DIRECTV’s robust channel listings to meet all your connectivity and entertainment needs.
Features and Benefits of CenturyLink’s Internet Service
CenturyLink offers internet service options that include:
- DSL Internet – Offers download speeds of 3-100Mbps using telephone lines. The max speed is lower than fiber but availability is wider.
- Fiber Internet – Uses fiber-optic cables to deliver speeds up to 940Mbps, with typical plans ranging from 100-940Mbps. Limited availability but extremely fast and reliable.
Specific features that appeal to tech-focused users include:
- No Data Caps – Use as much data as you need without overage charges.
- No Annual Contracts – Service is month-to-month so you can adjust plans as needed.
- 24/7 Technical Support – Get U.S.-based support for troubleshooting anytime.
- Advanced WiFi Features – Manage home networks using CenturyLink app and advanced routers.
- Price Lock Guarantee – Get the same monthly price for life when you bundle services. No unpredictable rate hikes.
- Free Self-Installation – Get your modem shipped to you and set up service yourself without a technician visit fee. Instructions are easy to follow.
- Unlimited Data Plans – No worrying about data caps. Stream, game, and surf as much as you want without overage fees.
- Enhanced Parental Controls – Manage and filter web access for each device on your home network. Set age appropriate restrictions.
- Malware Protection – Advanced security software helps block cyber threats and protect devices from viruses. Provides an extra layer of safety.
- Enhanced WiFi – Use your own router or rent one of CenturyLink’s advanced routers to maximize wifi coverage. Get faster speeds in more areas of your home.
For those wanting above-average internet speeds without restrictions, CenturyLink fiber delivers. Their DSL plans also outpace basic cable internet in most regions.
CenturyLink TV Bundle Options and Features
CenturyLink partners with DIRECTV to offer bundled TV packages. DIRECTV offers three core packages:
- SELECT – 155+ channels starting at $64.99/month.
- ENTERTAINMENT – 140+ channels starting at $69.99/month.
- PREMIER – 330+ channels starting at $134.99/month.
You can pair any DIRECTV package with CenturyLink internet and TV bundles, whether it’s CenturyLink DSL or fiber internet, to create a comprehensive bundle. For example, the DIRECTV® Entertainment All Included + CenturyLink Internet bundle provides 140+ channels and download speeds up to 100Mbps. With no annual contracts, you can customize your TV package as needed.
Pricing, Additional Costs, and Value for Your Money
1. Internet Pricing
- DSL: Starts at $50/month for speeds up to 100Mbps
- Fiber: Starts at $65/month for speeds up to 940Mbps
- Price Lock Guarantee – Prices stay the same as long as you have service. No surprise rate hikes.
- Bundled Discounts – Save up to $20/month when you bundle the internet with other services like TV or phone.
Pricing is considered average for DSL and below-average for fiber compared to competitors. Take a look at the table below for better insight on the pricing comparison:
Internet Pricing Comparison
| Plan | Speed | Price |
| DSL | Up to 20 Mbps | $50/month |
| DSL | Up to 100 Mbps | $65/month |
| Fiber | Up to 940 Mbps | $65/month |
When comparing CenturyLink’s internet pricing to competitors in the region, their DSL plans are very competitively priced. The 20 Mbps DSL plan is priced similarly to basic cable internet packages that offer the same speeds.
The 100 Mbps DSL plan is an even better value, as competing providers charge $10-15 more per month for similar download speeds.
However, the best value is definitely CenturyLink’s fiber internet pricing. At just $65/month, it is one of the most affordable fiber internet options for blazing fast 940 Mbps speeds. Most other fiber internet providers charge $80-100 for similar gigabit-range plans.
2. Additional Costs
- Equipment: $15 per month for modem rental or a $200 one-time purchase
- Installation: $15 for standard, $99 for professional
- Taxes and other fees
- Activation Fee – One-time $65 fee to start new service. Waived for online orders.
- Early Termination Fee – $100 fee if you cancel service before the contract ends. No ETF for month-to-month plans.
3. Promotions
- $100 Reward Card for new internet customers in certain states
- Free installation with 2-year price guarantee in select areas
- Refer a Friend – Get a $50 reward for each friend who signs up using your referral.
- Seasonal Discounts – Look out for back to school, holiday, and other periodic promotions to save extra.
- Bundle Deals – Adding TV, phone, and other services nets the biggest monthly discounts.
- First-time Customer Offers – Special pricing and gift cards offered to new first-time CenturyLink customers.
Overall, the internet pricing, coupled with promotional offers, provides excellent value, particularly for fiber plans. However, make sure to consider all additional costs before signing up.
CenturyLink Service Coverage and Availability
CenturyLink offers internet service in 40 states, with a strong presence in the Midwest, Southeast, and Western regions of the continental U.S. However, availability varies widely within states, especially between rural and urban areas.
CenturyLink’s DSL internet is accessible to over 50% of U.S. homes, providing broad coverage coast to coast. But their fiber internet has very limited availability, only reaching certain neighborhoods in select metro areas. Before ordering services, it is highly recommended to check availability at your specific address via CenturyLink’s website.
Their address-level coverage map lets you enter your home address or location to see exactly which plans are available. Having your location serviceable with your desired plan is a key point to confirm upfront before pursuing CenturyLink services.
Customer Experiences and Satisfaction
According to customer reviews on third-party sites, those able to get CenturyLink’s fiber internet report very fast speeds and reliability. However, multiple users express frustration with fiber’s limited availability in their areas.
On a survey, CenturyLink scores 63 out of 100 points, earning positive marks for internet speeds but more mixed reviews on value for money and customer service responsiveness. While fiber customers boast blazing speeds, DSL users report more inconsistent performance. Those able to access fiber plans are generally very satisfied with CenturyLink’s services.
Conclusion and Recommendations
For tech enthusiasts prioritizing speed over all else, CenturyLink’s fiber internet is blazing-fast if available in your area. Pair fiber with a robust DIRECTV package for a powerhouse bundled solution.
If fiber access is limited, CenturyLink’s DSL still outpaces basic cable internet and presents a solid option for high-speed home connectivity. As with any provider, be sure to factor in potential fees and confirm serviceability before signing up.
Consider your speed requirements and location flexibility when weighing your options to determine if CenturyLink can provide the ultimate connectivity experience.
Key Takeaways
- CenturyLink fiber internet offers speeds up to 940 Mbps but availability is very limited
- Bundles with DIRECTV provide premium satellite TV service and packages
- Contract-free services allow custom bundles and adjustments as needed
- Check exact availability for your address before ordering
- Fiber speeds deliver the best connectivity experience for tech enthusiasts
Frequently Asked Questions
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What internet speeds are offered by CenturyLink?
CenturyLink offers DSL internet with speeds ranging from 3-100 Mbps and fiber internet with speeds of up to 940 Mbps where available.
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What are the channel packages available from DIRECTV?
DIRECTV offers SELECT (155+ channels), ENTERTAINMENT (140+ channels), and PREMIER (330+ channels). These packages can be bundled with CenturyLink internet.
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Are CenturyLink services contract-free?
Yes, CenturyLink internet is month-to-month without annual contracts, allowing flexibility in selecting and changing plans when needed.
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Is CenturyLink available in my area?
CenturyLink provides extensive service coverage, but the availability at a specific address varies. Ensure to visit their website, enter your address, and check the available plans.
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What’s the difference between CenturyLink’s DSL and fiber internet?
Fiber internet offers exponentially faster speeds, up to 940Mbps, but it has very limited availability. DSL, on the other hand, provides slower yet more widely available internet, with speeds ranging from 3-100Mbps.
