Overview

This webpage includes answers to questions we didn't have time to cover, and the resources residents asked for during the virtual Digital Equity Town Hall held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. We hope these materials make it easier for you to stay informed and connected. 

Answers to Questions Submitted

This section summarizes responses to questions we received during the town hall but were unable to answer during the event.

Does anyone know how much Comcast charges for cable in other venues (cities) where they are not the sole provider?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) published a 2024 Report on Cable Industry Prices that may provide relevant information.

Can Baltimore City do anything to encourage internet service providers to cover new areas of the city?

Baltimore City is building more city-owned fiber infrastructure to make it easier and cheaper for new internet companies to come here. Encouraging competition is part of the City’s Digital Inclusion Strategy.

Why can't we get any other internet service except comcast?

Although there are no rules or laws preventing other internet service providers from offering services, some parts of Baltimore still only have one high-speed internet option.

Building broadband infrastructure is very expensive, and it can be difficult for new providers to compete with companies that already have extensive networks in place. The City is expanding its own fiber network to help create more opportunities for additional providers to enter the market and increase competition.

In Ten hills we have only Comcast. Nothing else is possible here at this time. If this is not true, please let us know.

A number of new providers are entering Baltimore City. To find out the providers in your area, you can check the FCC’s map: https://broadbandmap.fcc.gov/home. Some websites also list ISPs by area. You may still need to call the provider or check their website to confirm if they serve your exact address.

What if you want internet service, but not cable TV services?

You can buy internet-only plans from many providers. If you have a bundle with TV and internet, call your provider to ask how much an internet-only plan costs and how to switch. You can compare prices using broadband consumer labels.

Visit our Baltimore Connected Guides: Internet Tips for more information.

What can I do to ensure I don’t get charged for unwanted channels or services from my provider?

Use the broadband consumer labels to see exactly what fees and services you are paying for when choosing an internet plan. For cable TV questions, you can email: officeofcable@baltimorecity.gov. 

Internet and Cable Glossary of Terms

This glossary offers definitions of common terms to help you understand internet services and select the plans that work best for you.

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

A federal program that use to help lower-income families pay for internet. The Office of Broadband and Digital Equity still help residents find affordable plans even without ACP.

Bundle

When a company sells services like internet, TV, and phone together for a lower price.

Broadband

Fast (high-speed) internet that lets you stream videos, do homework, work from home, or join video calls without long delays

Broadband Consumer Labels

Simple “nutrition labels” for internet plans. They show the price, speed, fees, and rules so you can compare plans easily. See examples.

Cable Internet

Internet that travels through the same wires as cable TV. It is fast, but usually not as fast as fiber.

Data Cap

A limit on how much internet you can use each month. If you go over the cap, you may pay extra or have slower speeds.

Digital Divide

The gap between people who have fast, affordable internet and the devices and skills to use it and people who do not.

Digital Equity

The idea that everyone should be able to get online, afford internet service, have a device, and know how to use it, no matter their age, income, or where they live.

Download Speed

How fast you can get information from the internet (videos, websites, music). Higher download speeds mean smoother streaming.

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

Internet that uses traditional telephone lines. Often slower than cable or fiber optic internet.

Early Termination Fee

A fee you may have to pay if you cancel your internet plan before the contract ends. It is listed on the broadband consumer label and is important to check before signing up.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The federal agency that makes the rules for how internet, phone, radio, and TV services work in the U.S. It gives information on where internet service providers offer services and has information on how to use broadband consumer labels to choose a plan.

Fiber Optic Internet (Fiber)

The fastest and most reliable type of internet. Uses thin glass strands to send information as light. Great for multiple people streaming, gaming, or working at once.

Fiber Optic Service (Fios)

Verizon’s fiber internet service. Uses thin glass cables to deliver very fast, reliable internet with no data caps.

Fixed Wireless Internet

Internet that’s sent through radio signals from a nearby tower to your home. Good for areas without cable or fiber lines, but speeds can vary depending on distance and weather.

Gigabits Per Second (Gbps)

A way to measure internet speed. One gigabit is very fast, which is good for streaming, gaming, and many people using the internet at the same time.

Internet Service Provider

A company that provides your home internet. This includes companies like Comcast, Verizon, Ting, or others. Some also offer TV or phone service.

Introductory Rate

A temporary lower price you get when you first sign up for internet service. After that period, usually about a year, the price increases.

Latency (Lag)

The delay between sending a request and getting a response. Low latency means smoother video calls and gaming.

Megabits Per Second (Mbps)

The unit used to measure internet speed. More Mbps equals faster internet.

Mobile Hotspot

When your phone’s data creates a small Wi-Fi signal for other devices. It works in a pinch but can use a lot of data.

Modem

A device that connects your home to the internet service coming from your provider. Sometimes the modem and router are combined in one box.

One-Time Purchase Fees

Fees you pay only once, usually when starting service. They can include installation costs or buying equipment like a modem.

Public Wi-Fi

Free internet provided by the City in places like recreation centers, senior centers, and Main Street corridors. View our coverage map to see where you can access public Wi-Fi.

Router

A small box in your home that sends out the Wi-Fi signal. If the router is off, the Wi-Fi doesn’t work.

Satellite Internet

Internet sent from satellites in space. Useful in rural areas, but can be slower and less reliable, especially in bad weather.

Unlimited Data

A plan with no limits on how much internet you can use.

Upload Speed

How fast you can send information to the internet (video calls, uploading documents). Important for remote workers and students.

Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi)

A wireless signal that lets your phone, laptop, or tablet connect to the internet without plugging in a cable.

Internet Service Providers in Baltimore City

This list includes more information about some of the internet service providers discussed during the town hall. To see which providers serve your address, visit the FCC’s broadband map at broadbandmap.fcc.gov. You should confirm availability directly with the provider.

Cable/Fiber Home Internet Options

Comcast/Xfinity

  • Phone:
    • General/New Service: (800) 934-6489 or (877) 495-6637 (for new installations/sales)
    • Numbers change, so check Xfinity's official website for your specific account or issue.
  • Website: https://www.xfinity.com/local/md/baltimore
  • In-Person Stores:
    • 733 W. 40th Street, Baltimore, MD 212111
    • 3814 Boston Street, Baltimore, MD 21224

Verizon

Greenlight Networks (coming soon)

Port Networks

Waves

Other Options

T-Mobile (5G fixed wireless)

HughesNet (satellite)

Starlink (satellite)

Community Resources and Links

This section includes helpful programs, services, and information related to internet access, devices, and digital skills.

Computer and Digital Skills
Devices
Internet
Technical Support

Contact the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity

If you would like more information, reach out to us using the contact information below.

Email Us

bde@baltimorecity.gov

Call Us

(443) 984-9740

Follow Us on Social Media

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