Our Guide to Armstrong Internet: Plans, Pricing, and Customer Reviews

Armstrong Internet, part of the Armstrong Group of Companies, offers high-speed internet services to customers in several states across the northeastern United States. As a regional provider, Armstrong focuses on delivering reliable internet connections to both urban and rural areas.

Armstrong’s internet service, branded as “Zoom Internet,” provides a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. Their offerings include cable and fiber-optic connections, depending on the area. This variety allows customers to choose speeds that match their online activities, from basic browsing to heavy streaming and gaming.

One of Armstrong’s key selling points is their commitment to local service. As a family-owned company, they pride themselves on providing personalized customer support and investing in the communities they serve. This local focus sets them apart from larger national providers and often translates to higher customer satisfaction ratings.

Armstrong Internet Plans and Pricing

Armstrong offers several internet plans to cater to different user needs. Their most common plans include:

1. Zoom Express: Starting at $34.95/month for speeds up to 25 Mbps
2. Zoom: $49.95/month for speeds up to 300 Mbps
3. Zoom Extreme: $74.95/month for speeds up to 1 Gbps

These prices may vary slightly depending on your location. It’s important to note that Armstrong often includes equipment rental in their pricing, which can be a cost-saving benefit compared to providers that charge separate equipment fees.

Armstrong’s official website provides the most up-to-date information on plan details and pricing. They also frequently offer promotional rates for new customers, so it’s worth checking for current deals when considering their services.

While Armstrong’s prices may be higher than some national providers, they often provide better value in areas where DSL or satellite are the only other options. Their cable and fiber connections typically offer faster and more reliable service than these alternatives.

Availability of Armstrong Internet Across the U.S.

Armstrong Internet is primarily available in parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky. Their service area covers both urban and rural communities, with a focus on regions that may be underserved by larger national providers.

Key coverage areas include:

• Western Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh and surrounding suburbs
• Northeastern Ohio, including areas south of Cleveland
• Parts of West Virginia, such as Harrisville
• Southern New York, particularly in Allegany and Steuben counties
• Small pockets in Maryland near the Pennsylvania border
• Limited areas in Kentucky where it borders West Virginia and Ohio

To check if Armstrong Internet is available at your address, you can use their online availability checker or contact their customer service. It’s worth noting that availability can vary even within cities or neighborhoods, so a specific address check is the most accurate way to determine service options.

BroadbandNow provides detailed information on Armstrong’s coverage areas and can be a helpful resource for comparing availability with other providers in your region.

Understanding Armstrong’s Data Caps and Policies

Armstrong Internet implements data caps on some of their plans, which is an important consideration for heavy internet users. Here’s a breakdown of their data policies:

• Zoom Express (25 Mbps): 800 GB monthly data allowance
• Zoom (300 Mbps): 1.5 TB monthly data allowance
• Zoom Extreme (1 Gbps): Unlimited data

If you exceed your monthly data allowance, Armstrong charges $10 for each additional 50 GB block of data. However, they offer the option to purchase additional data in advance at a discounted rate, which can be a cost-effective solution for users who consistently need more data.

Armstrong provides tools for customers to monitor their data usage through their online account portal. This feature helps users keep track of their consumption and avoid unexpected overage charges.

It’s important to consider your typical internet usage when choosing a plan. For most households, the data allowances are sufficient. However, if you frequently stream 4K video, download large files, or have multiple heavy internet users in your home, you might want to opt for a plan with a higher data allowance or consider the unlimited option.

Comparing Armstrong Internet with Other Providers

When comparing Armstrong to other internet service providers, it’s essential to consider factors like speed, pricing, customer service, and availability in your area. Here’s how Armstrong stacks up:

Compared to national cable providers like Xfinity or Spectrum, Armstrong often has slightly higher prices. However, they frequently include equipment rental in their base price, which can make the overall cost comparable. Armstrong’s local focus also often translates to better customer service ratings.

Against DSL providers, Armstrong’s cable and fiber offerings generally provide much faster speeds and more reliable connections. While DSL might be cheaper in some cases, the performance difference usually makes Armstrong the better choice where available.

When compared to satellite internet providers like HughesNet or Viasat, Armstrong offers significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and higher data allowances. For most users, Armstrong would be preferable to satellite internet if both are available.

The main areas where Armstrong may fall short of competitors are in their more limited coverage area and the presence of data caps on some plans. However, in the regions they serve, especially rural areas, Armstrong often provides internet service that’s superior to other available options.

For a detailed comparison of Armstrong with other providers in your area, HighSpeedInternet.com offers side-by-side comparisons of plans and pricing.

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction Ratings

Customer satisfaction is a crucial factor when choosing an internet service provider. Armstrong generally receives positive reviews from its customers, particularly in areas of customer service and reliability.
According to various online reviews and ratings:

• Many customers appreciate Armstrong’s local presence and responsive customer support.
• The reliability of the service is frequently praised, with fewer outages reported compared to some national providers.
• Users often comment positively on the consistency of speeds, especially during peak usage times.
  However, like all providers, Armstrong does receive some negative feedback:
• Some customers find the pricing to be higher than they’d like, especially in areas with limited competition.
• The data caps on lower-tier plans are a point of contention for some heavy internet users.
• A few users report issues with billing or service changes, though these seem to be relatively infrequent.

It’s worth noting that Armstrong isn’t large enough to be included in national customer satisfaction surveys like the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). However, they maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, which is a positive indicator of their customer service practices.

When considering these reviews, remember that experiences can vary based on location and individual circumstances. It’s always a good idea to ask neighbors or local community groups about their experiences with Armstrong if possible.

How to Choose the Right Armstrong Internet Plan for You

Selecting the right Armstrong Internet plan depends on your specific needs and usage habits. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Number of devices: More connected devices generally require faster speeds.
2. Online activities: Streaming, gaming, and video calls need more bandwidth than basic browsing.
3. Number of users: Households with multiple heavy internet users should opt for faster plans.
4. Data usage: If you frequently download large files or stream 4K content, consider plans with higher data allowances.

Here’s a general guide:

• Zoom Express (25 Mbps): Suitable for 1-2 users, basic browsing, and email
• Zoom (300 Mbps): Good for 3-5 users, streaming HD video, and online gaming
• Zoom Extreme (1 Gbps): Ideal for large households, 4K streaming, and heavy data users

Remember to monitor your data usage during the first few months to ensure you’ve chosen a plan with an appropriate data allowance. Armstrong provides tools to track your usage through their customer portal.

If you’re unsure which plan is right for you, Armstrong’s customer service representatives can help assess your needs and recommend an appropriate plan. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about plan details, promotional rates, and any available bundle options that might provide better value.

Armstrong’s Bundles and Special Offers

Armstrong offers bundle packages that combine internet service with TV and phone options, potentially providing savings for customers who need multiple services. These bundles, often referred to as “Double Play” or “Triple Play” packages, can offer better value than purchasing services separately.

Common bundle options include:

• Internet + TV bundles
• Internet + Phone bundles
• Internet + TV + Phone bundles

Bundle pricing and availability can vary by location, so it’s best to check Armstrong’s official website or speak with a representative for the most current offers in your area.

In addition to bundles, Armstrong frequently offers special promotions for new customers. These may include:

• Discounted rates for the first few months of service
• Free installation
• Waived equipment fees
• Premium channel previews or streaming service subscriptions

It’s worth noting that these promotional offers often come with term agreements, typically 12 or 24 months. Be sure to understand the terms of any special offer, including the regular pricing that will apply after the promotional period ends.

For existing customers, Armstrong sometimes offers loyalty discounts or the option to upgrade to faster plans at discounted rates. Don’t hesitate to contact their customer service to inquire about current promotions or to negotiate your plan if you’ve been a long-term customer.

Technical Support and Customer Service

One of Armstrong’s strengths is its focus on local, personalized customer service. They offer several ways to get support:

1. Phone Support: Available 24/7 for technical issues
2. Online Chat: Available during business hours for quick questions
3. Email Support: For non-urgent inquiries
4. In-Person Support: At local Armstrong offices
5. Online Resources: Including FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and video tutorials

Armstrong’s technical support team is based in the United States, which many customers appreciate for ease of communication. They offer assistance with a wide range of issues, from connection problems to equipment setup and billing questions.

For installation and major technical issues, Armstrong provides in-home service calls. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they implemented safety protocols for these visits to protect both customers and technicians.

Armstrong also offers a mobile app that allows customers to manage their account, pay bills, and even troubleshoot common issues without needing to contact support directly. This can be a convenient option for those who prefer self-service solutions.

While no provider is perfect, Armstrong generally receives positive feedback for their customer service. Their local presence often translates to more personalized and responsive support compared to larger national providers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Armstrong Internet

Q: Is Armstrong Internet available in my area?
A: Armstrong primarily serves parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky. Check their website or contact customer service for specific availability.

Q: Does Armstrong require a contract?
A: Most Armstrong Internet plans do not require a long-term contract. However, some promotional offers may come with term agreements.

Q: Can I use my own modem and router with Armstrong Internet?
A: Yes, Armstrong allows customers to use their own compatible equipment. However, they also offer equipment rental, which is often included in the plan price.

Q: How do I check my data usage?
A: You can monitor your data usage through Armstrong’s online customer portal or mobile app.

Q: Does Armstrong offer fiber internet?
A: Yes, Armstrong offers fiber internet in select areas. Availability depends on your specific location.

Q: What should I do if my internet is slow?
A: First, try restarting your modem and router. If issues persist, run a speed test and contact Armstrong’s technical support for assistance.

Q: Can I bundle internet with TV or phone services?
A: Yes, Armstrong offers various bundle packages that can include internet, TV, and phone services.

Q: How do I pay my Armstrong bill?
A: Armstrong offers several payment options including online payments, automatic bill pay, phone payments, and in-person payments at local offices.

Q: Does Armstrong offer Wi-Fi hotspots?
A: Yes, Armstrong provides access to Wi-Fi hotspots for their internet customers in many public locations within their service area.

Q: What happens if I go over my data cap?
A: If you exceed your monthly data allowance, Armstrong charges $10 for each additional 50 GB block of data. They also offer options to purchase additional data in advance at a discounted rate.

Remember, for the most up-to-date and accurate information specific to your area, it’s always best to contact Armstrong directly or visit their official website.