Looking for the best Dark Fiber providers in Baltimore in Maryland, United States? Here's your ultimate guide to making an informed choice.
What is Dark Fiber?
Dark Fiber, also known as 'unlit fiber' or 'black fiber', refers to fiber optic cables that have been laid by telecommunications providers but are not currently in use. These unused cables can be leased or purchased by businesses, who then install their own equipment to create a private, high-speed network.
Dark Fiber providers are highly dependent on the availability of specific network infrastructure in a given area. The service is typically accessible in major cities or along high-traffic routes where excess fiber has been installed. This geographic limitation means that businesses located closer to urban centers are more likely to have access to Dark Fiber services.
Overview of Dark Fiber Providers in Baltimore, Maryland, United States
There are many Dark Fiber providers to choose from in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, with an estimated 28 available based on Lightyear’s network intelligence—the industry’s most comprehensive dataset.
Actual provider availability also depends on fiber infrastructure near a specific address—so while many exist citywide, not all are quote-ready for every location. Comparing options can quickly become overwhelming.
To help simplify your research, we've compiled a definitive list of providers offering Dark Fiber in Baltimore, which you can explore below.
You can also schedule a demo with the Lightyear team for expert support navigating telecom procurement. Provider availability differs significantly by location, and Lightyear’s network intelligence helps businesses identify the right-fit options based on real infrastructure data.
Local Telcos in Baltimore, with Dark Fiber
Local telcos are telecommunications companies that offer wireline telephone services throughout the Baltimore region in Maryland, United States. They possess extensive fiber infrastructure, making them ideal providers for Dark Fiber. These companies can offer service across larger areas, while regular providers may only have coverage in specific regions of the city.
The local telco(s) in Baltimore that offer Dark Fiber include:
- Verizon: Verizon offers a range of business solutions, including mobile plans, business internet, and network services. Business Internet starts at $69/month with no annual contracts.
Local Cable Companies in Baltimore with Dark Fiber
Local cable companies originally built cable television infrastructure throughout Baltimore, which they now use to deliver ISP and business connectivity services. While their residential services typically rely on coaxial cables, their enterprise offerings—like Dark Fiber—are usually delivered over fiber infrastructure. Availability depends on the cable provider's network footprint, with some services like DIA offering broader coverage than others. Often, a city’s local cable companies, like their local telcos, will be able to provide Dark Fiber connectivity throughout the city.
The cable company(ies) in Baltimore that offer Dark Fiber include:
- Comcast: Comcast is a major telecommunications provider offering a range of services, including high-speed internet, cable TV, and business solutions.
Other Network Providers with Dark Fiber in Baltimore
Finally, a network provider is a company that delivers Dark Fiber by leveraging a mix of technologies to offer flexible, business-focused solutions. Unlike local telcos and cable companies with citywide infrastructure, these providers may only cover specific areas depending on network availability.
There are many network providers in Baltimore that offer Dark Fiber to choose from. Here's a quick look at all of them based on our network intelligence:
- 2pifi: Specializes in providing high-speed internet and network solutions for businesses.
- Allied Telecom Group: Offers a range of connectivity solutions, including internet, voice, and cloud services.
- Altius Broadband: Delivers broadband internet services to underserved and rural areas.
- AT&T: A major telecommunications provider offering mobile, internet, and business solutions.
- Believe Wireless: Provides wireless internet and networking services tailored for businesses.
- Consolidated Communications: Offers a variety of communication services, including internet, voice, and data solutions.
- Cox Communications: Provides high-speed internet, cable TV, and business services.
- Crown Castle: Specializes in infrastructure solutions, including fiber networks and small cell technology.
- Earthlink: Offers internet and managed network services for businesses and consumers.
- ExteNet Systems: Provides advanced network infrastructure solutions, including fiber and wireless services.
- FiberLight: Delivers high-performance fiber optic network solutions for businesses.
- GiGstreem: Offers high-speed internet services with a focus on reliability and customer service.
- Granite Telecommunications: Provides communication services, including voice, data, and network solutions.
- Lightpath: Specializes in fiber optic network services for businesses.
- Maryland Broadband Cooperative: Offers broadband services to improve connectivity in Maryland.
- MetTel: Provides a range of communication solutions, including managed services and network connectivity.
- NewConnect: Delivers high-speed internet and networking solutions for businesses.
- Nextlink Internet: Provides broadband internet services to rural and underserved areas.
- One Ring Networks: Offers a variety of communication services, including internet and voice solutions.
- Pavlov Media: Specializes in providing internet and video services to multi-family communities.
- T-Mobile: A leading mobile network operator offering a range of wireless services.
- Telia Company: Provides international communication services, including internet and network solutions.
- Uniti Fiber: Delivers fiber optic network solutions for businesses and carriers.
- Windstream: Offers a variety of communication services, including internet, voice, and managed services.
- Zayo: Specializes in providing fiber optic bandwidth, connectivity, and colocation services.
Overall Connectivity Score in Baltimore, Maryland, United States: Medium
The "Medium" connectivity score in Baltimore reflects a balanced landscape of provider availability, fiber infrastructure, and competition. For businesses seeking Dark Fiber, this means a fair number of choices and competitive pricing. However, the right provider still hinges on location-specific availability and business needs, making tools like Lightyear essential for streamlining the selection process.
Use Lightyear to Find the Perfect Provider
Interested in accessing the full list of providers at the best prices? Lightyear's platform offers unparalleled network intelligence, helping you identify the best Dark Fiber providers in Baltimore. With real-time data, expert support, and a user-friendly interface, Lightyear simplifies telecom procurement, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your business needs.
