Why do you need my ZIP code before I can see the available internet services?

Anyone who’s ever shopped for internet service online knows that at some point in the process you will be asked to enter your ZIP code into a box like the one below.

Search by ZIP Code Search Providers

Asking for this type of information upfront may seem intrusive and can be a little frustrating, but we have a good reason for asking: we want to help you find the internet provider you want.

We keep a database of which internet service providers offer service in a particular area. To keep the database simple, we define each area by its ZIP code. So, to show you the internet service packages you can actually buy, we need to know which internet service providers (ISPs) offer service in your area. The simplest way to establish that information is by asking for your ZIP code.

In most areas, you will find one major cable company, one major telephone company, and one or two satellite companies providing internet service. Although this is typical, exactly which companies are available to you will vary based on your area.

What happens after I enter my ZIP code?

Entering your ZIP code narrows down the list of ISPs to only the internet provider options in your area. After you have that list, you can search through the packages each provider offers and choose one that suits your needs. But before you make your final decision about which package to order, you’ll want to know exactly what your needs are when it comes to internet.

Most providers will have several speed tiers from which to choose, so the first thing to consider is how much internet speed you’ll need. You can quickly determine your speed needs by using our handy tool.

You also might want to compare how much speed you need to the speed you already have. You can check the internet speed you’re currently getting with this tool.

Next, you’ll want to know what kind of customer service each brand provides and understand any fees or unexpected charges. Fortunately, you can do all that by simply reading the expert reviews on our site. Reading user reviews by current customers is also a good way to learn about an internet service provider before you sign up for high-speed internet.