Verizon Review

Overview

Verizon 5G Home Internet, accessible in 22 states, offers impressive speeds and competitive pricing. It’s a straightforward option, particularly advantageous for those with an existing Verizon 5G mobile plan, as substantial discounts are available. However, it’s essential to note that speeds can vary significantly based on location, so it’s advisable to check the expected performance in your area before committing.

Features and Services

Verizon 5G Home Internet is a home internet service transmitted through the air via 5G technology. Unlike cable, DSL, or fiber internet, there’s no requirement for a professional installation to physically wire the system. Instead, the service is delivered wirelessly through radio towers, similar to the way mobile phones operate.

Verizon 5G Home Internet is accessible in approximately 22 states, primarily in major urban areas. Notably, the service comes with no data caps, ensuring unlimited internet usage. Additionally, there is no requirement for an annual contract; you simply need to make monthly payments for the service.

In addition to its convenient wireless delivery, Verizon 5G Home Internet stands out as a straightforward home internet product without unnecessary frills. This simplicity is a notable feature, distinguishing it from competitors who often include unused extras to increase monthly rates. The emphasis here is on providing fast, affordable internet that is both easy to install and use.

Plans and Pricing

Verizon offers two 5G plans: 5G Home and 5G Home Plus. While these plans share many similarities, the 5G Home Plus plan stands out with a three-year price guarantee, whereas the 5G Home plan offers a two-year price guarantee. Additionally, the 5G Home Plus plan includes Verizon Cloud Unlimited, a cloud backup service typically priced at $19.99 per month. As of the current information, the Home Plus plan also features a complimentary SimpliSafe Smart Home security system as a special offer.

The pricing for Verizon 5G Home Internet begins at $25 per month for those with an existing Verizon 5G mobile plan. Without a 5G mobile plan, the rates are $50 per month for 5G Home and $70 per month for 5G Home Plus. An additional $10 per month applies to each plan if you choose not to enroll in the Auto Pay system.

Hardware and Setup

Setting up Verizon 5G internet is more straightforward than fiber internet, thanks to the delivery of your connection through radio waves. In most areas, you’ll receive a Wi-Fi router to install on your own. The process involves simple steps like plugging it in and configuring your devices to connect using the provided Wi-Fi password. Professional installation is also an option in certain regions, and it comes at no additional cost.

For added convenience, Verizon provides a free mobile app. Primarily designed for billing management, the app also enables users to engage in live chats with tech support or schedule a support callback.

Security

Verizon does not include any bundled internet security software with its 5G Home Internet products. Users are responsible for finding their own antivirus and anti-malware solutions. The router does offer basic features that can be adjusted for internet security, including a firewall and port forwarding.

The 5G Home Plus plan also lacks internet security features but instead includes a distinct home security product—a comprehensive 8-piece security bundle from SimpliSafe. This bundle consists of a security camera, keypad, base station, and entry sensors. It comes with free professional monitoring for the initial month, and thereafter, a monthly fee of $27.99 is applicable.

Performance and Coverage

Verizon advertises a maximum potential speed of 980 Mbps for its 5G Home Internet product. However, achieving this speed depends on having an optimal setup, such as residing in close proximity to one of their wireless 5G transmitters. Upon initial sign-up for Verizon 5G Home Internet, the service provides an estimate of the expected speed based on your specific address.

During our testing, the Verizon website provided an estimated speed range of 85 to 300 Mbps. While this range is quite broad, the actual speeds consistently exceeded 200 Mbps in our experience, nearly double the average internet speed in the U.S.

It’s important to note that variable performance is an inherent challenge with 5G internet. If a fiber connection is available in your area, it is more likely to offer a consistent and fast internet connection. However, the advantage of 5G lies in its wireless nature, eliminating the need for a physical cable connection to be installed in your home.

Verizon asserts that its 5G home internet product is not subject to throttling, allowing users to utilize it without experiencing a decrease in speeds. However, there is a fair use caveat, granting Verizon the right to throttle the connection if excessive usage is detected. For the majority of users, this is unlikely to pose a problem.

Customer Support

To seek assistance with Verizon 5G Home Internet, your initial recourse is the Verizon support website, which offers guidance on basic troubleshooting steps like router restarts and setting up voice commands for Amazon Alexa compatible with your Verizon router.

Furthermore, communication with the company is possible through various channels, including Facebook Messenger, the Live Chat system, or round-the-clock tech support accessible via mobile call. Additionally, a supportive community website, featuring a multitude of users, is available to help address your inquiries.

Conclusion

Verizon 5G Home Internet presents a compelling value, particularly for customers already utilizing the company’s 5G mobile plan, which comes with a substantial monthly discount. With an impressive average speed of 300 Mbps and the potential for even higher speeds of up to 980 Mbps depending on your location, it caters well to the needs of most users.

Notably, Verizon 5G Home Internet stands out for its customer-friendly approach, featuring no installation fees, no annual contract requirements, and no equipment fees. This new addition to the market is a commendable choice for those seeking a faster, simpler, and more cost-effective home internet service.