Question 1

Where does broadband data come from?

Accepted Answer

Broadband availability data comes from the FCC's Broadband Data Collection (BDC), which requires internet service providers to report where they offer service, at what speeds, and using which technologies. Data is updated semi-annually.

Question 2

What speeds are considered broadband?

Accepted Answer

The FCC defines broadband as a minimum of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload, though this standard is being updated. For practical use, streaming video requires about 5-25 Mbps, remote work video calls need 10-25 Mbps, and households with multiple users or devices should target 100+ Mbps.

Question 3

Why might my actual internet speed differ from what is shown?

Accepted Answer

Reported speeds are the maximum that providers offer in an area, not guaranteed speeds. Actual performance depends on your plan tier, network congestion, equipment quality, distance from infrastructure, and the number of connected devices. Use speed test tools to measure your actual connection.

Provider▲▼	Technology▲▼	Download▼	Upload▲▼
Nextlink	Fixed Wireless	1.0 Gbps	1.0 Gbps
Starlink	Code 61	280 Mbps	30 Mbps
Windstream Iowa Communications, Inc.	DSL	200 Mbps	52 Mbps
HughesNet	Satellite	100 Mbps	5 Mbps
Viasat Inc	Satellite	100 Mbps	4 Mbps
Verizon	Licensed Fixed Wireless	50 Mbps	6 Mbps
T-Mobile	Licensed Fixed Wireless	25 Mbps	3 Mbps
UNITED STATES CELLULAR CORPORATION	Licensed Fixed Wireless	10 Mbps	1 Mbps
AT&T	Licensed Fixed Wireless	—	—

Nichols, IA

Nichols Internet Providers