Looking for the best Dark Fiber providers in Charleston, South Carolina? 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 installed but are not currently in use. These cables are leased to businesses, which then install their own network equipment to transmit data, giving them full control over the network's architecture, speed, and security.
Dark Fiber providers are highly location-dependent, as the availability of unused fiber-optic strands varies by region. Access to these services is often limited to major metropolitan areas and specific network corridors, where the necessary infrastructure is already in place.
Overview of Dark Fiber Providers in Charleston, South Carolina, United States
There are many Dark Fiber providers to choose from in Charleston, South Carolina, United States, with an estimated 18 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 Charleston, 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 Charleston, with Dark Fiber
Local telcos are companies that provide wireline telephone services throughout the Charleston region in South Carolina, 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 Charleston that offer Dark Fiber include:
- AT&T: A major telecommunications provider offering wireless phone plans, home internet, and bundled services. Known for reliable connectivity and attractive deals, including promotions on the latest devices.
- Frontier Communications: Provides fiber internet, TV, and phone services with various fiber internet plans, including 7 Gig, 5 Gig, 2 Gig, 1 Gig, and 500 Mbps.
Local Cable Companies in Charleston with Dark Fiber
Local cable companies originally built cable television infrastructure throughout Charleston, 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 Charleston that offer Dark Fiber include:
- Comcast: A leading telecommunications provider offering a range of services including internet, TV, and phone. Known for its extensive network and reliable connectivity.
- Optimum: Telecommunications provider offering high-speed fiber internet, TV, and mobile services. Features include 1 Gig and 8 Gig Fiber Internet, with various promotional offers and bundles.
Other Network Providers with Dark Fiber in Charleston
Finally, a network provider is a company that delivers Dark Fiber by leasing unused fiber-optic cables to businesses. Unlike local telcos and cable companies with citywide infrastructure, these providers may only cover specific areas depending on network availability, often using a mix of technologies to offer flexible, business-focused solutions.
There are many network providers in Charleston that offer Dark Fiber to choose from. Here's a quick look at all of them based on our network intelligence:
- Altice USA: A leading broadband communications and video services provider, offering high-speed internet, TV, and phone services.
- Breezeline: Provides high-speed internet, TV, and phone services with a focus on delivering reliable connectivity to homes and businesses.
- BrightSpeed: Offers a range of internet and phone services, specializing in high-speed fiber-optic connections for both residential and business customers.
- CenturyLink: A global communications and IT services company, providing high-speed internet, voice, and managed services to businesses and consumers.
- Fusion Connect: Delivers a comprehensive suite of cloud communications, connectivity, and managed network services tailored for businesses.
- Home Telecom: A local provider offering high-speed internet, TV, and phone services with a focus on community and customer service.
- Segra: One of the largest independent fiber network companies in the U.S., providing advanced data and communications solutions.
- Spectrum: A major provider of internet, TV, and voice services, known for its extensive network and reliable service offerings.
- T-Mobile: Renowned for its mobile services, T-Mobile also offers high-speed internet solutions for both residential and business customers.
- Uniti Fiber: Specializes in providing high-capacity fiber infrastructure solutions to businesses, carriers, and government agencies.
- Verizon: A global leader in communications and technology, offering a wide range of services including high-speed internet and business solutions.
- Windstream: Provides advanced network communications and technology solutions for businesses across the U.S.
- Zayo: Offers extensive fiber network and bandwidth connectivity solutions, catering to the needs of businesses and data centers.
Overall Connectivity Score in Charleston, South Carolina, United States: Low
A low connectivity score in Charleston indicates limited provider availability, sparse fiber infrastructure, and less competition. This can lead to fewer options and potentially higher costs for businesses seeking Dark Fiber. However, choosing the right provider still hinges on location-specific availability and business needs, making procurement tools like Lightyear invaluable 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 advanced network intelligence and procurement tools make it easy to find the best Dark Fiber providers in Charleston. With real-time data, expert support, and a user-friendly platform, Lightyear helps businesses navigate telecom procurement effortlessly.
