Best DSL Internet Providers in Chicago, Illinois (2026)
AT&T Internet is the top DSL provider in Chicago, serving 85.8% of residents. Local DSL plans range from 15 Mbps to 100 Mbps with pricing starting near $37-55/month, delivered over dedicated copper phone lines.
Residents of Chicago, Illinois looking for internet service that works over traditional copper phone lines have 1 DSL option available in 2026. DSL remains relevant in many Midwest communities where newer technologies are still being deployed. In this major metro of 2,746,388, AT&T Internet offers the broadest DSL network at 85.8% area coverage.
DSL Internet Providers in Chicago: Comparison Table
| Provider | Max Speed | Starting Price | Coverage | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Internet | 100 Mbps | $55/mo | 85.8% | 1-855-850-5977 |
DSL Internet Providers Serving Chicago, IL
We have compiled in-depth profiles for each DSL provider in Chicago, Illinois, so you can compare options side by side.
AT&T Internet DSL Internet in Chicago
With 85.8% area coverage in Chicago, AT&T Internet provides DSL service over the local copper loop network.
Subscribers to AT&T Internet DSL in Chicago receive a dedicated connection that is not shared with neighbors, unlike cable internet. This can result in more consistent speeds during peak evening hours when network congestion is highest.
- Internet 100: 100 Mbps download for $55/mo (VDSL2/IPBB technology)
- Internet 25: 25 Mbps download for $55/mo (ADSL2+ technology)
View AT&T Internet DSL plans for Chicago →
Call 1-855-850-5977 to check AT&T Internet DSL availability at your Chicago address.
Xfinity serves Chicago with Cable, Fiber technology. Call 1-844-963-0138 to learn about Xfinity plans.
Consider T-Mobile as an alternative to DSL in Chicago if coverage is available. Call 1-844-275-9311 to learn about T-Mobile plans.
For a non-DSL option in Chicago, HughesNet offers service via Satellite. Call 1-855-543-5405 to learn about HughesNet plans.
While Verizon Fios does not offer DSL in Chicago, it provides alternative internet service. Call 1-855-387-1456 to learn about Verizon Fios plans.
Viasat serves Chicago with Satellite technology. Call 1-855-463-9333 to learn about Viasat plans.
DSL Technology Explained for Chicago Residents
Digital Subscriber Line internet in Chicago works by transmitting data over copper telephone cables using frequencies above the voice band. This allows simultaneous phone calls and internet usage on the same line without interference. Two variants are common in the Illinois market: ADSL (Asymmetric DSL), which allocates more bandwidth to downloads than uploads, and VDSL2, which supports symmetrical or near-symmetrical speeds at shorter distances from the provider's equipment.
Throughout Chicago, the distance between your home and the closest DSLAM is the single biggest factor affecting your DSL speed. A DSLAM is a specialized piece of networking equipment, often housed in a roadside cabinet or inside a telephone central office. In the Midwest region, telephone companies have deployed additional DSLAMs over the years to improve speeds in high-demand areas. If your Chicago address is within 3,000 feet of a DSLAM, you may qualify for VDSL2 speeds of 50-100 Mbps. At 10,000 feet or more, expect ADSL speeds in the 5-15 Mbps range.
The condition of the copper loop matters significantly for DSL performance in Chicago. Signal loss increases with older wiring, corroded connections, and the presence of bridge taps, which are unterminated wire segments left from old telephone installations. Having a technician evaluate and clean up your copper line can sometimes result in measurable speed improvements.
DSL plans in Chicago commonly include unlimited data, a feature that sets them apart from many satellite and fixed wireless alternatives. This makes DSL a practical option for remote workers, students attending virtual classes, and families who stream content throughout the day. Phone line bundling options are also available from several DSL providers in Chicago, offering potential savings for households that want both internet and landline telephone service.
Choosing the Right DSL Internet Plan in Chicago
When comparing DSL plans in Chicago, Illinois, the first step is verifying service availability at your specific address. DSL coverage depends on copper infrastructure, and not every provider reaches every neighborhood. Enter your Chicago address or ZIP code 60601 on each provider's website, or call their sales line to confirm exact availability and speed options for your location.
Speed needs should guide your plan selection. A single user who primarily browses the web, checks email, and occasionally streams video in standard definition can manage comfortably with 15-25 Mbps ADSL service. Households with multiple connected devices, HD or 4K streaming habits, and work-from-home requirements should aim for a VDSL2 plan offering 50-100 Mbps if available at their Chicago address.
Examine the total monthly cost, not just the headline price. Factor in equipment rental or purchase costs for the DSL modem, any one-time installation fees, and whether the quoted price is a promotional rate that increases after an introductory period. Several DSL providers in Chicago offer promotional pricing for the first year, which can double in the second year of a two-year contract.
Data usage policies, contract terms, and bundling options should also influence your choice. Most DSL plans in Chicago include unlimited data, but verify this before committing. Month-to-month plans provide flexibility, while contract plans sometimes offer lower rates. If you use a home phone, bundling DSL with phone service can lower your overall bill for both services.
Local DSL Internet Insights for Chicago, Illinois
As a major metro of 2,746,388 in the Midwest, Chicago has a mature copper telephone infrastructure that supports DSL service across most residential areas. The Chicago metro area's topology influences DSL availability: central neighborhoods typically enjoy proximity to telephone central offices and remote DSLAMs, translating to faster VDSL2 speeds, while outlying areas may be limited to ADSL.
Chicago residents often compare DSL to the 8 total internet providers serving the area. While fiber and cable may offer higher peak speeds, DSL's dedicated connection and absence of data caps make it attractive for specific use cases. Households on a budget, those in areas without cable infrastructure, and users who value consistent performance over maximum throughput find DSL to be a practical choice in Chicago.
Seasonal weather in the Midwest can affect DSL performance. Heavy rain can introduce moisture into older junction boxes and splice points along the copper path, temporarily reducing line quality. If you notice speed fluctuations during severe weather in Chicago, contacting your provider for a line check is advisable. In most cases, the issue is an aging splice or corroded connection point that can be repaired to restore full performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About DSL Internet in Chicago
What is a DSLAM and why does it matter?
A DSLAM (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer) is the equipment that connects your copper telephone line to the provider's fiber network. In Chicago, DSLAMs are located in telephone central offices and street-side cabinets. The closer your home is to a DSLAM, the faster and more reliable your DSL connection will be.
How long does DSL installation take in Chicago?
DSL installation in Chicago typically takes 5-10 business days from order to activation. Many providers offer self-installation kits that ship to your Chicago address, allowing you to set up service the same day it is activated. Professional installation, which includes a technician visit, may take an additional few days to schedule.
What is the difference between ADSL and VDSL2?
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) reaches up to 24 Mbps and works at longer distances from the DSLAM, up to about 18,000 feet. VDSL2 (Very-high-bit-rate DSL 2) offers speeds up to 100 Mbps but requires a shorter copper loop, typically under 5,000 feet. Both technologies use existing copper telephone wiring.
Do DSL internet plans in Chicago have data caps?
Most DSL internet plans available in Chicago do not include monthly data caps. Unlike satellite and some mobile broadband services, DSL providers in Illinois generally offer unlimited data usage on residential plans, making them suitable for streaming, remote work, and everyday browsing.
How reliable is DSL internet in Chicago?
DSL internet in Chicago is generally reliable because each subscriber has a dedicated copper connection to the DSLAM. Outages are typically caused by physical line damage or central office equipment issues rather than network congestion. Older copper wiring may be more susceptible to weather-related signal degradation, but modern DSL equipment handles most conditions well.
Can I bundle DSL internet with phone service in Chicago?
Yes, most DSL providers in Chicago offer bundles that include both internet and home phone service over the same copper telephone line. Bundling typically saves $5-20 per month compared to purchasing each service separately. Ask your provider about current bundle pricing when you call.
Related Internet Resources for Chicago
- Internet Providers in Chicago, IL
- Cheap Internet in Chicago
- Fiber Internet in Chicago
- Cable Internet in Chicago
- Internet Providers in Illinois
- DSL vs Cable Internet Comparison
- Internet Speed Guide
InternetProviders.ai independently reviews DSL internet options in Chicago, Illinois. This page contains affiliate links to provider sign-up pages. We may receive compensation for referrals, but this never influences our coverage analysis or provider rankings for the Chicago area.