Quantum Fiber vs. CenturyLink: What is the Difference?

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Last updated on May 5, 2026

You cannot really "choose" between Quantum Fiber and CenturyLink, because they are the exact same company. "Quantum Fiber" is CenturyLink's new brand name for its high-speed, 100% fiber-optic internet service. If you only see the name "CenturyLink" available at your address, it means you only have access to their older, significantly slower DSL network.

Feature Quantum Fiber CenturyLink (DSL) Winner
Connection Type 100% Fiber-Optic DSL (Telephone Lines) Quantum Fiber
Max Download Speed Up to 8,000 Mbps Up to 100 Mbps Quantum Fiber
Max Upload Speed Up to 8,000 Mbps Up to 10 Mbps Quantum Fiber
Data Caps None None Tie
Pricing Strategy "Price for Life" Options Flat Monthly Rate Tie

Who Wins in Speed? (Quantum Fiber)

The difference in technology is massive. CenturyLink DSL runs over ancient copper telephone wires, meaning speeds usually max out around 100 Mbps (and are often much slower depending on how far you live from the hub). Quantum Fiber uses brand-new glass cables to deliver blazing-fast multi-gigabit speeds up to 8 Gbps.

The Reality of Availability

CenturyLink (the parent company) is actively trying to upgrade all of its old DSL customers to Quantum Fiber, but digging trenches to lay new glass cables takes years.

Find Out What is Actually at Your Address

Internet availability is incredibly confusing. Provider websites will advertise "Gigabit Fiber" on their homepage, but when you type in your address, you only qualify for slow DSL.

Stop guessing and let us do the hard work for you. Call our experts at (844) 817-0136. We will instantly check the database for your exact street address and let you know whether your home has been upgraded to Quantum Fiber yet!

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