Norvado Internet Review

About Norvado Internet Service

Norvado is a regional telecommunications provider primarily serving Northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Established in 1955, Norvado has evolved from a traditional telephone company to a comprehensive provider of internet, television, and voice services. The company is known for its commitment to rural communities, often bringing high-speed internet options to areas underserved by larger national carriers. Norvado currently serves over 40,000 customers across its expansive service footprint. Its market position is defined by its local focus and dedication to community development through advanced connectivity solutions.

Key statistics: Years in business: 70 (as of 2025), Customers served: 40,000+, Coverage area: Primarily Northern Wisconsin and Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Norvado Internet Service Analysis

Norvado offers a tiered selection of fiber optic plans, providing symmetrical download and upload speeds for consistently fast performance. For areas where fiber is not yet available, they offer Fixed Wireless solutions. All plans feature unlimited data for fiber, with a generous 1TB cap on their wireless offering. Equipment rental is a standard fee across most plans, and importantly, no long-term contracts are required for any of their services.

Technology and Infrastructure

• Network Type: Primarily Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) in served areas, with Fixed Wireless technology deployed for rural coverage.
• Network Upgrades Planned for 2025-26: Continued expansion of fiber optic network into new communities within Northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula. Exploration of 5G Fixed Wireless technologies for enhanced rural broadband.
• Equipment Provided: Customers receive a modem/router combination unit. For fiber, this is typically an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) and a Wi-Fi router. Fixed Wireless includes an outdoor antenna and indoor router.
• Installation Process: For fiber, a technician will install a new line to the home and set up equipment. Fixed Wireless installation involves mounting an antenna and connecting it to an indoor router. Standard installation is free for fiber, while Fixed Wireless may have a small setup fee.
• Technical Specifications: Fiber optic speeds are delivered via Gigabit Ethernet interfaces. Fixed Wireless utilizes 4G LTE technology with directional antennas for optimal signal reception.

Coverage and Availability

Norvado's service area is concentrated in the northern regions of Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Their fiber optic network is most robust in towns such as Rhinelander, Tomahawk, and Iron Mountain. Availability for their higher-speed fiber plans is limited to these more developed areas. For residents in more remote or rural locations within their general service territory, Norvado offers Fixed Wireless internet, which significantly expands their reach but comes with lower speed tiers and a data cap. Urban availability is limited to the specific towns they serve, as they are not a national provider.

Specific states/cities with best coverage: Wisconsin (Rhinelander, Tomahawk, Merrill), Michigan (Iron Mountain, Kingsford, Escanaba).

Urban vs rural availability differences: Fiber optic services are predominantly available in urban and suburban centers within Norvado's footprint, offering the highest speeds and unlimited data. Fixed Wireless is specifically designed to serve rural and remote areas where fiber deployment is cost-prohibitive, providing essential broadband access but with more constrained performance.

Pricing and Value Assessment

Norvado's pricing is competitive, especially considering the symmetrical speeds offered by their fiber plans. A significant advantage is that their advertised prices are the standard rates, with no promotional period that leads to a price hike. The modem rental fee is a consistent additional cost. Bundling with their television and voice services can unlock additional savings, enhancing the overall value proposition for customers seeking a complete home entertainment and communication solution.

Pros and Cons of Norvado

Customer Experience and Support

Norvado generally receives positive feedback regarding its customer service, particularly from customers in its core service areas who appreciate the local presence and personalized support. The company aims to provide responsive assistance, though wait times can fluctuate during peak periods. Their commitment to community engagement often translates into a more customer-centric approach compared to larger national providers.

• Support channels available: Phone, email, online chat, and in-person at local offices.
• Average response times: Phone support typically within 5-10 minutes, email within 24 hours.
• Installation satisfaction: Generally high, especially for fiber installations, with technicians often praised for professionalism.
• Reliability ratings: Fiber optic service is highly reliable with minimal downtime. Fixed Wireless reliability can be more dependent on environmental factors and signal strength.

How Norvado Compares to Competitors

Final Verdict: Who Should Choose Norvado?

Norvado Internet is an excellent choice for residents in Northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, particularly those in areas where high-speed fiber optic internet is available. Its symmetrical speeds, unlimited data on fiber plans, and no-contract policy make it a compelling option for users who demand reliable and fast internet for streaming, gaming, and remote work. For individuals in more remote locations within Norvado's service territory, their Fixed Wireless offering provides a crucial broadband solution, albeit with lower speeds and a data cap. Customers who value local service and support, and are looking for a provider committed to improving connectivity in underserved regions, will find Norvado to be a strong contender. It is particularly well-suited for families and professionals who require consistent performance and are tired of the limitations often imposed by national providers in similar geographic areas.