Looking for the best Dark Fiber providers in Winston-Salem, North 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 unused cables can be leased by businesses, who then 'light' the fiber by installing their own transmission equipment, giving them full control over the network's architecture, speed, and security.
Dark Fiber providers are highly location-dependent, relying on the availability of specific network infrastructure in a given area. The feasibility of connecting to dark fiber hinges on the presence of unlit fiber-optic cables and accessible splice points, making it a viable option primarily in regions with existing fiber routes.
Overview of Dark Fiber Providers in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States
There are many Dark Fiber providers to choose from in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with an estimated 23 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. 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 Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem, with Dark Fiber
Local telcos are companies that provide wireline telephone services throughout the Winston-Salem region in North 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 Winston-Salem that offer Dark Fiber include:
- AT&T: A major telecommunications provider offering wireless, internet, and device sales. Known for promotions like $200 off per line and reward cards for switching.
- Windstream: Provides high-speed internet, phone, and digital TV services under the Kinetic brand. Offers fiber internet plans with price guarantees and bundle discounts.
Local Cable Companies in Winston-Salem with Dark Fiber
Local cable companies originally built cable television infrastructure throughout Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem that offer Dark Fiber include:
- Spectrum: A major telecommunications provider offering high-speed internet, mobile, cable TV, and home phone services. Spectrum's internet plans start at $30/mo for 100 Mbps, with no contracts and options for advanced WiFi.
Other Network Providers with Dark Fiber in Winston-Salem
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 Winston-Salem 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.
- Angola Cables: Offers international connectivity and data center services with a focus on the African market.
- BrightSpeed: Delivers reliable internet and communication services to residential and business customers.
- CenturyLink: A global communications provider offering internet, voice, and managed services.
- Comcast: Provides a wide range of telecommunications services, including internet, TV, and phone.
- Crown Castle: Specializes in infrastructure solutions, including fiber networks and small cell technology.
- Lightpath: Focuses on delivering high-speed fiber-optic connectivity to businesses.
- Optimum: Offers internet, TV, and phone services with a variety of plans for both residential and business customers.
- Segra: Provides advanced fiber network solutions tailored for businesses and enterprises.
- Starvision: Delivers satellite and fiber-optic communication services.
- Surry Communications: Offers high-speed internet, phone, and TV services to local communities.
- T-Mobile: Known for its mobile network, T-Mobile also provides business internet solutions.
- TailWind Voice & Data: Specializes in managed network services and IT solutions for businesses.
- Uniti Fiber: Delivers custom fiber network solutions for carriers and enterprises.
- Verizon: Offers a comprehensive range of business communication services, including internet and phone.
- Wilkes Communications: Provides internet, phone, and TV services with a focus on rural areas.
- X1 Communications: Delivers high-speed internet and network solutions for businesses.
- Zayo: Specializes in fiber network and bandwidth infrastructure solutions.
- ZB8 Infra: Provides infrastructure solutions, including fiber-optic networks, for businesses.
Overall Connectivity Score in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States: Medium
The "Medium" connectivity score in Winston-Salem 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, though options may vary by location. Tools like Lightyear are invaluable for navigating these nuances and finding the best fit for specific needs.
Use Lightyear to Find the Perfect Provider
Interested in accessing the full list of providers at the best prices? Lightyear's advanced network intelligence simplifies the process of finding the best Dark Fiber providers in Winston-Salem. With real-time data, expert support, and a user-friendly platform, Lightyear helps businesses navigate telecom procurement effortlessly, ensuring you get the most reliable and cost-effective solutions.
Book a demo to explore Lightyear today.
