This article / Blog post is an intro of sorts to the topic of Internet Providers, as well as home internet plans. The 'internet provider' or 'internet plan' marketplace in Canada can be confusing, because availability varies by region and even by neighbourhood. There are also multiple internet technologies in use. Let's break this down below.

In Canada, internet providers are (generally speaking) regulated by the CRTC. The largest providers tend to be “facilities-based,” meaning they own their own cable TV and/or telephone networks. Historically, that created regional “incumbents,” though mergers and acquisitions have blurred things over time.

In addition, there are “non-facilities-based” internet providers (often called third-party providers). They don’t own the physical cable/phone networks, but instead buy regulated access to them and compete largely on price.

There are various internet technologies (types of internet) available in Canada:

• Coax Cable Internet - delivered over a cable TV line. Often “fibre to the node,” then coax to the home. Upload speeds are usually lower than download speeds.
• DSL Internet - delivered over a copper phone line. Speeds vary by address and distance. Generally an older technology that may be phased out over time.
• Satellite Internet - delivered via satellite dish (e.g., Starlink; also other providers in some regions).
• Mobile Internet - delivered using cell towers. Trees, hills, and buildings can affect signal quality.
• Fixed Wireless - typically a fixed antenna setup; line-of-sight can matter depending on provider and network design.
• Fibre to the Home (FTTH) - fibre optic line all the way to the modem; upload speeds often match download speeds.

The Urban Internet Company is one up and coming Canadian Internet Service Provider we admire. They offer home internet plans in many urban areas in Canada.

WRS Web Solutions Inc. is another internet service provider that we hold in very high regard. They offer home internet plans in many urban parts of Canada and have been in business since 2010.

TekSavvy Solutions Inc. offers cable internet plans in many parts of Canada.

Rogers is a large cable internet provider operating over its own cable TV network in parts of Canada.

Shaw is a Western Canada based provider (now part of Rogers).

Cogeco Connexion operates cable networks in Quebec and parts of Ontario.

Eastlink provides cable internet plans in parts of Canada.

Plus many other companies, most of whom you will never see listed any place.

Telus offers fibre to the home in many parts of BC and Alberta.

Bell offers fibre to the home in many parts of Quebec and Ontario.

Rogers offers fibre to the home in select areas.

TekSavvy offers fibre to the home in select areas.

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