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CenturyLink

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5.9

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: February 27th, 2024

While the company started as a small family business in the 1930s, CenturyLink has eventually become a household name in the ISP industry.

CenturyLink has a history of acquiring other companies to increase its nationwide reach. These expansion efforts led CenturyLink to become the third largest telecommunications company in the United States. It serves all 50 states with its extensive fiber-optic internet networks and DSL service.

CenturyLink offers Price for Life plans that don't have a contract and boast download speeds as high as 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps). Customers can choose plans that have a data cap of 300 GB or plans with unlimited data.

Recently, CenturyLink has expanded even further to offer entertainment like Century Prism and DirecTV service. If you're interested in purchasing phone or TV service in addition to internet, you can bundle services to save money. 

CenturyLink strives for great customer service to help each of its customers have a unique, positive experience.

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The Good

  • Fast Speed Available
  • Contract-Free Price for Life Plans
  • No Overage Charges
  • 24/7 Technical Support

Fast Speed Available

CenturyLink offers a wide range of internet speeds for its customers. These speeds are specific to an exact location and vary depending on the area, but they are typically among the higher speeds in the industry. In some areas, customers can have a download speed of up to 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) in major cities with fiber-optic availability. This top possible speed is one of the fastest internet speeds available on the market, especially compared to the available speeds from other broadband providers. 

Upload speeds range between 256 kbps and 5 Mbps. If you need a high-speed internet connection, check with CenturyLink customer service to see what is available in your zip code.

Contract-Free Price for Life Plans

Like most ISPs, CenturyLink offers packages based on speed. You can determine what works for you based on the devices you'll use and the number of people in your household.

If you sign up for internet service online, CenturyLink offers four plans that don't require a contract in most states. The rates for these plans won't rise if you keep the plan without making any changes (like an address change):

  • 20–140 Mbps — $50 per month
  • Fiber Internet 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) — $55 per month

You probably won’t need a contract, because CenturyLink can typically offer its packages on a month-to-month basis. You don't need to worry about pricing increases, an early termination fee, or rate changes. 

CenturyLink provides reliable internet for a home Wi-Fi network. The company also offers good internet security and backup services with its internet packages through Norton by Symantec. 

Making payments each month for internet is easy to do through an online CenturyLink user account.

No Overage Charges

You may have to watch out for CenturyLink's data caps; it's something that a few CenturyLink customers complain about.

CenturyLink sets limits for how much of the internet its customers can use in any given month, which is 1 TB. This is a generous amount of data, so most customers won't surpass it. Internet service providers do this to try to control the available speeds for all of their customers and make sure the system functions properly, but it can be a drawback if you use up a lot of data.

CenturyLink customers who exceed their data limits will not be required to pay an overage charge. If you eat up too much data, you'll receive a notice. CenturyLink might slow your service down.

24/7 Technical Support

The company offers 24/7 technical support, which is very convenient. If a customer is not satisfied with the services they receive from CenturyLink, they are protected with a thirty-day, money-back guarantee.

Be aware that some customers complain of poor customer support. Reviewers note that phone communication with CenturyLink takes a long time, and technician visits are sometimes missed and rescheduled. This is a frequent complaint in the ISP industry. Test out your commununication with a customer service rep through your preferred method of contact to get an idea of the average wait time and quality of response.

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The Bad

  • Variable Speed Availability
  • Variable Price for Life Availability
  • Additional Fees
  • Customer Complaints

Variable Speed Availability

Not all of CenturyLink’s plan options and speeds may be available in your area. Fiber is typically available in select urban locations.

It is easy to view plans that are available in your area on CenturyLink’s website. Rural areas are more likely to have access to DSL service and slower speeds.

Variable Price for Life Availability

The CenturyLink Price for Life guarantee isn't available in all 50 states. Check to see if CenturyLink allows a package with a Price for Life guarantee in your area.

Additional Fees

CenturyLink charges additional fees for the following:

  • Modem rental — $10 per month or ~$150 one-time purchase
  • Installation — $125

The modem one-time purchase cost varies but is no higher than $150. Be sure to ask what the cost would be to you if you purchased it one-time versus paying an extra $10 monthly rental fee.

Some areas may have an option for self-installation, which is free.

If your plan with CenturyLink is based on a contract agreement, then you may be subject to an early termination fee if you end the contract early.

Customer Complaints

Customers complain about a variety of issues with CenturyLink, including poor customer service, connection issues, and connection speeds lower than their advertised plans. Be aware that most internet providers have similar complaints.

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The Bottom Line

In recent years, CenturyLink has become one of the biggest broadband ISPs in the country. Its broadband internet service is available in all 50 states. But be warned: each specific address has different high-speed availability.

One perk of CenturyLink is that the service is month-to-month without a contract. This gives customers more flexibility.

Before signing up for CenturyLink, be sure to pay attention to additional fees — setup and equipment — and the offerings available in your area. As with any internet service provider, read the terms and conditions before signing up for service.

Overall, CenturyLink provides quality service with affordable prices. Potential customers should consider CenturyLink when choosing an internet provider.

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Star Rating

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3.1

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811 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

17%

4 grade

17%

3 grade

18%

2 grade

11%

1 grade

38%

Sentiment Criteria

Value

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Quality

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Service

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Trustworthiness

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Joseph A. Giallanza

I had Century Link for years In Arcadia, Florida and never had a single issue with the company. If there ever was downtime, it was resolved immediately, and their customer service was the best! I'm in Daytona Beach, now and they aren't available here. I hope they read this review and answer my prayers that will provide service, because what we have here now "really stinks!"

3 months ago

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Tana Tuggle Phoenix, AZ

I prefer CenturyLink before any other service. I have had CenturyLink in all my apartments except for the place I live now, because the service is not provided in my area. I never had any problems with the speed, no interruptions and if you experience a problem, you will be awarded a discount on your bill for the inconvenience. Customers always want to get compensated if they are inconvenience, especially if they pay their bill on time.

6 months ago

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RONALD WHITE Phoenix, AZ

We have been with CenturyLink for well over 7 years now. We have never experienced the problems that some of our neighbors have had with the competitor internet company (which has been having many problems with slow internet service or no internet service). We are on their Price for Life program so we never see any price increases and have minimal connectivity problems...maybe reboot the router once a month or less. Internet speed has never been a problem even with streaming TV and 2 kids and my wife battling for bandwidth. I am extremely pleased with CenturyLink and I promote them as often as I can on NextDoor or Facebook neighborhood sites. Kudos to CenturyLink.

2 years ago

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Ryan Pleasant Grove, UT

Century Link was a life saver. In a world full of over over priced internet providers (I am taking about you Comcast!), Century Link provided cheap internet that fit all my needs. All I wanted was internet fast enough for streaming services like YouTube and Netflix at an affordable price. Century Link delivered. I pay less than $30 a month and have no problems streaming shows. The downside to Century Link is that you need a DSL Connection (phone line) in your house. You do not need to pay a phone bill but you do need the connection in your house. Thankfully the apartment my wife and I are in has one. I know friends of mine who pay $50-$70 for the same internet speed I get with Century Link. And I do not need to buy some stupid tv package. Why would I pay for cable tv when there is Netflix. You can't go wrong with Century Link!

8 years ago

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Georgianna Quinney Taylorsville, NC

We had Century Link for YEARS. We love that they offered a TRUE landline. However, once Brightspeed took over in our area... the service became TERRIBLE. Century Link had great service & was quick to help if there was a problem.

8 months ago

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Los Aurora, CO

Since having their services i haven't had any internet issues. I joined when they had the promotion of pay once simple price. My service fee is fixed and its what i like about this company. So many people have bad experiences with this company. You pay for get. People want flawless internet connections and speed for 20.00. Like I said, you pay for what you get.

3 years ago

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Eddie Rios Ogden, UT

CenturyLink offers fast speeds at ridiculously low prices. What's more is you can lock it in for longer spans of time so your billing is stable, They are courteous and their technical help staff are amazing. While a complex problem can arise, they are well trained to fix issues and get you back on your way with minimal disruption. Can't ask for better.

4 years ago

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Roger Dee Creswell, OR

I beg to differ with Vartan gregarian . If you think CenturyLink is the worst try HughsNet. After that you will LOVE, Love, Love CenturyLink. I Just switched over and though I cannot get highspeed in my area it is the first rural provider that has offered consistent speed at a decent price. I have to admit that I have not had it long so maybe haven't had the experience to know better but after HughsNet I have to give CenturyLink a 5

4 years ago

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Bart and Judy Swanson Fayetteville, NC

Always good when there was a problem they replaced our modem/ during inclement weather our internet service is fixed if it should go out temporarily and they very easy to deal with if we need to phone them for any reason. We have our home landline with them as well. Monthly bill is extremely reasonable !

3 years ago

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Joe Thielen Lone Tree, CO

I had CenturyLink fiber installed at my house in Nov 2019. This is an amazing service at 1Gbps, with low latency and jitter....!!!! The price is $65 a month, which is amazing as well!!! If you can get this service, you should, you will not regret the choice, and you will constantly be amazed.!!!

4 years ago

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Carole Tucson, AZ

I’ve had CenturyLink internet service for several years. I stream everything, and I do mean everything, on my TV, and I have never been disappointed with the speed or quality. My neighbors are paying outlandish prices for their cox internet (which has service caps!), while I’m paying a fraction ($35 a month) for UNLIMITED DATA!

9 months ago

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Unhappy Customer Denver, CO

I have used Centurylink for 22 years, I can say in that 22 years I can count on one hand the number of times the service went down. On only 1 occasion was it down for more than 24 hours. From what my neighbors tell me (who use Xfinity), that is amazing. In addition, their price lock is true, as a matter of fact, my internet speed has only increased and the bill has gone down.

1 year ago

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MICHAEL S ROSS Sherman, TX

I used Century Link for 10 years for landline and internet service when I lived in Alabama. Their rates were competitive, and their service was excellent. Any problems were addressed immediately. Their internet division was very helpful when I encountered a glitch, and their customer care representatives were always very friendly and courteous, and well-equipped to offer solutions to issues. Unfortunately, Century Link doesn't provide service to my area of Texas. Otherwise, I'd use them for my internet service today.

2 years ago

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Ashley Pleasant Grove, UT

While living in Provo Utah we used CenturyLink for our internet use. We were very happy with how fast the speed was throughout our home. We had 6 kids at the time and when we were all on the internet at the same time it didn't seem to affect the speed at all. We also found it very helpful to use their 24/7 technical support and internet security. The downloads were super fast as well.

4 years ago

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Dan Colton Gilbert, AZ

I used to use one of the other internet service providers. When I first heard about CenturyLink, I was skeptical that they could deliver the same high speed internet at the lower cost they advertised. However, with their price for life offer and no contract, I thought I'd give them a try. I have been very happy with my service and with the money I'm saving after switching to CenturyLink.

5 years ago

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Chris Alonzo Gilbert, AZ

The service is great the customer service reps are very helpful and are always looking out for you to get the best service for your money. I have had Centurylink service for six years and absolutely love it. The technicians are very knowledgeable and are trained to help you with any service disruption. One thing that I wish they were better at was the availablilty to schedule appointments when needed it seems they are always weeks out when you needs them to come to your home.

5 years ago

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Russ Hamstring Lake Havasu City, AZ

My internet always works as it should. I pay for 1 gig and we constantly get download speeds of 800+. I would definitely recommend CenturyLink for sure. Thanks!!

6 months ago

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A Scott Rolla, MO

I've been a consistent customer of CL for 12+ years. The service has always been good and when systems were in need of repair or upgrade, customer service replied promptly.

7 months ago

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Chad Edgar Wentzville, MO

CenturyLink is best internet the name speaks for itself and it works really well even during storms and no buffering internet speeds always fast I'm blessed to have CenturyLink as my providers

2 years ago Edited February 14, 2022

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JJ Jenkins Glendale, AZ

CenturyLink offers great startup promotions for new customers and low monthly rates for bundles service of internet and tv channels. They have prompt customer service when you need help.

2 years ago Edited January 6, 2022

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Kels

Affordable and reliable. If you are looking for something that's straight up and not getting jerked around. Here is where you need to be. No contract, no billing changes, just the same bill every month

3 years ago

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Jennifer Albany, WI

They were quick to change my service and guide me through any problems when I moved. After being with them several years, they offered me a discount just for staying a loyal customer.

6 years ago

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gar greiner Colorado Springs, CO

Living in the the mountains of Colorado we need a land line and also have internet and everything works great.we have been with CenturyLink over 20 years and love it we have a unlimited long distance for one low price and that saves us a lot of money . Thanks CenturyLink,G.B.Greiner

1 year ago

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Arif Hussain Chandler, AZ

We are using Century link for our cellphone service over 5 yrs and we are happy with the service. If any questions/issues the customer service staff takes care of us immediately. We will continue to use CenturyLink for years to come.

1 year ago

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Michelle Crane Queen Creek, AZ

We have been century link customers for the past 5 years. They have always exhibited excellent customer service when we have had connection problems and have even given us a $100 gift card When we have moved to incentivize us to stay. Great company and great fast service

1 year ago

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Yael Lynchburg, VA

I had CenturyLink in my apartment in college and loved it! Fast internet, no issues whatsoever. It's great for streaming, and the installation was easy, the technician was very professional, the job was well done. I'm very happy and satisfied with the service.

1 year ago

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Andrew Glover Tucson, AZ

Their reliability compared to fiber or cable internet has always been slightly less with more random outages. Their "price for life" guarantee was a nice feature of the plan, although fees did increase outside of the set price of service which made the bill slowly climb over time.

1 year ago

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Moses F. Chandler, AZ

I give my highest recommendation for Centry Link, regarding their Great price & service. We don't worry about interruptions. And our family enjoy a high level of Quality service. We have enjoyed the service for over 3 years.

2 years ago Edited January 21, 2022

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Autumn Lewiston, ID

I am currently a CenturyLink customer. I like that you are not on a contract and can pay month to month and use your own modem to lower monthly costs. I also like that CenturyLink is the leader in fiber-optic internet in my area. This means faster, reliable internet service for me!

2 years ago

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David Swenson Littleton, CO

We have had century link fiber optic internet for 2 years in Denver, Colorado. I have been very satisfied. We locked in a flat rate that will never increase for a very high rate of internet. I cannot think of one issue we have had in 2 years! I would highly recommend them.

2 years ago Edited August 11, 2022

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terry r Las Vegas, NV

I have had this company several times over the years and I have always ended up coming back to them. Great company with good customer services. You should always get the 2 year contract and try to get a renewal when the contract expires.

2 years ago

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Eric Salt Lake City, UT

I have had CenturyLink for several years and have had a very good experience. The price is good for the service. Rarely does my internet "go out". Their provided router has a strong signal and seems to handle multiple devices in our home without problems.

4 years ago

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Miles Strother American Fork, UT

We use a CenturyLink router, which was cheap, simple to set up, and doesn't cause many problems. In over 4 years, we've only had a couple of outages, and only once or twice was the router to blame, and the outages were easy to fix and short

4 years ago

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Rosann Stanko Logan, UT

We have had CenturyLink for several years and we’ve been pleased with the service. 🤨 I am especially pleased with the customer service bc the people are patient with my questions and they are good at answering my questions. If they do not know the answers, they are quick to check with a supervisor or someone else that knows the answer.

4 years ago

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Laura Orem, UT

We have had CenturyLink as an internet service provider for about five years. There are rarely outages and we have had almost no problems. We pay about $45 per month and it has been a positive experience. We often have several devices in the home using the internet at the same time with no problems.

5 years ago

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Anne Marie Milne Layton, UT

I switched to CenturyLink after having a bad experience with a previous provider and I have loved it ever since. They don't have mystery fees and they don't try to get you to buy a bunch of other stuff to raise their prices. They are a very trustworthy company and that is what I needed!

5 years ago

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jagarrou Tucson, AZ

Internet is consistently strong with few outages. No complaints.

2 months ago

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Don Surprise, AZ

Great experience from installation and afterward. They were quick to install and the internet speed, value and customer service far exceeds my old provider.

3 years ago

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Scott Watson

Company has honored it's price for life for 20 years now. During that time my internet speed has gone from 56 Kbs to 50 mbs (done in 4 speed updates roughly every 5 years)

3 years ago

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Harvey Liston

We use them for a couple years now. They set up my Internet service very fast and has never gone down except for how I use now that school is out. Very pleased with them.

3 years ago

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Bella Golden

I have been listened to and have been provided with excellent service. I spoke with Amber and she was so patient, even though I could not decide what to do.

4 years ago

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Darlene Johnson Caledonia, OH

I have had CenturyLink for over 15 years in my home, I've had different satellite service but I love this company they give wonderful customersupport.

9 months ago

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Lisa Cato Tallahassee, FL

Centurylink internet has been a reliable source for our streaming and educational functions. Even during bad weather, the service still is consistent. The price is also fair.

1 year ago

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Aubrey Roseburg, OR

I used century link for years and I never had any major issues with it. The internet speed is fast for the price you pay, and they're pretty good at getting back to you if you do have any issues.

2 years ago Edited January 14, 2022

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Cynthia Landing Forest City, IL

Years ago I used this service which they were the first company to offered service in the community where I lived the phone and internet packages they put together were different levels making it affordable for all

2 years ago Edited January 3, 2022

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Beth Dunn Tallassee, AL

We switched to Centurylink after our bill more than tripled with the other company we were with. We were able to get a great price for internet set for life as long as we were at our current address.

2 years ago

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Desi Pleasant Grove, UT

We've used century link for about years now and it's been working fine. Sometimes though, there are of few annoying times where it doesn't work. CenturyLink is a good way to go!

4 years ago

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Kymberlee Yack Orem, UT

I've had century link for a while now and i highly recommend it! they have great pricing and a great selection of speeds to pick from. I love having an internet provider that's reliable and fast working!

5 years ago

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tini mapu Orem, UT

We have CenturyLink they have been great for us. Great customer service and our interest service is speedy. We have only had it go off due to a storm. They are also available on the phone anytime.

5 years ago

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Jess Root Gilbert, AZ

Got 80 megs locked into a good price for life. Cheaper than other options and no contract. I haven't had issues with the service. Customer service is tough. Every phone call takes an hour.

5 years ago