Direct communications

Direct Communications

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History: 

Direct Communications is a locally-owned fiber broadband company based out of Idaho. The company was founded in 1954, and is still run by the same family that started it. Their vision has always been to connect businesses, institutions, towns and families through their communication services. Most recently, the company has honed those services to focus on providing a state-of-the-art fiber network to the Idaho area. 

The company is proud of their pioneering nature, often touting their impressive collection of “firsts”. According to Direct Communications, they were the first company to accomplish the following feats:

  • Provide high-speed Fiber to residences in Idaho.
  • Implement a digital switch in Idaho.
  • Use fiber optic cables in telephone networks in Idaho.
  • Provide high-speed internet to rural areas of southeast Idaho. 
  • First to offer satellite services in Idaho. 

Internet: 

Naturally, the services available from Direct Communications depends on the geographical region in which the customer is located. In general, Direct Communications offers a choice between DSL and Fiber internet. 

DSL

DSL does not require a landline, which is likely a surprise to most consumers. Direct Communications offers all the equipment you may need. From routers and modems to high-speed rated cables. If you need help getting everything installed, Direct Communications offers home installation services from their team of trusted technicians. Of course, equipment and installation does come at an additional cost. Those fees depend on where you are located and what you need. 

DSL prices vary, but a 100 Mbps connection is roughly $69.99 month, plus fees. Like most internet service providers (ISPs) the speed of your connection is the primary factor when it comes to determining your monthly costs. 

Fiber

If high-speed internet is what you’re after, then Fiber is the clear choice. Depending on your location, Direct Communications can offer Fiber internet packages with speeds ranging from 50 Mbps all the way up to 250 Mbps. That’s more than enough speed to run multiple devices simultaneously, download your favorite movies and play competitive video games online. 

Of course, with better performance comes a higher price tag. Direct Communications offers three tiers of Fiber packages that range from $69.96 a month all the way up to $99.95 a month. Those costs can increase if you need to rent equipment or professional installation help. 

Business: 

It’s nearly impossible to run a business without internet access in 2020. Direct Communications knows this and is proud to offer a multitude of corporate internet options. Direct Communications has affordable packages for small businesses, and enterprise-level speeds for bigger corporations. No matter what your business internet needs are, Direct Communications has a solution. 

While business internet prices vary greatly, they tend to be significantly more expensive than a residential internet service. 

Phone

Like most ISPs, Direct Communications also offers phone line services in addition to their internet services. While many people rely on cell phones, those who still reside in more rural areas often need a landline since cell service can be spotty. Direct Communications is here to help. Prices vary depending on your location, but you can always keep it affordable by bundling your phone and internet packages together. 

There are pros and cons to choosing a local internet service provider over a larger ISP like CenturyLink or Comcast. With Direct Communications, it tends to be more pros than cons much to the delight of Idaho residents. 

Direct Communications has begun to expand their service outside of Idaho, so you may see this name pop up more often in the ISP space moving forward. For now, remember to always do your research before choosing a new ISP. It’s important to go into your search knowing your budget, and what kind of speeds you require. 

Sources:

  1. https://directcom.com/idaho/index.php/about-us/