(NEXSTAR) – You probably want to know what your options are before you sign a contract and set up your wifi. You can find out which internet service provider offers the fastest speed in your area by looking at a map that is maintained by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
On the FCC website, you first enter your address. Then, a list of choices for a provider appears, along with their technologies (such as copper or fiber) and maximum advertised upload and download speeds for that address.
That last part is where you’ll want to pay extra attention if you have multiple options, as internet speeds can vary significantly between providers at the same address. According to the FCC, you need a download speed of approximately 10 Mbps to download files, 5-8 Mbps to stream HD video, and 25 Mbps to stream Ultra HD 4K video.
A well-known Android app is said to have begun recording users and recording their movements. Each listed number represents a single individual. Therefore, your household will require more broadband if one person is watching Netflix, another is on Zoom, and a third is scrolling through Instagram.
Take, for instance, a look at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles.
There are a few choices available at the address, but clearly the fastest is: Charter Communications (formerly Spectrum Communications) That service provider advertises upload and download speeds of 35 Mbps and 1,000 Mbps, respectively.
The FCC also keeps track of which cell phone providers provide the best coverage for 4G and 5G in your area. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, the three largest companies, were recently compared. You can see it here.