AT&T Expands Fiber Network In Suburbs

WILMETTE, IL — AT&T recently expanded the number of suburban Chicago locations where its fiber internet network offers 1 gigabit data connections, the company announced last week.

Customers in Wilmette can now get internet speeds 20 times faster than the average for cable customers, allowing users to download a 90-minute movie in HD in under 34 seconds, according to AT&T.

Higher-speed service has also been made available in Arlington Heights, North Aurora, Libertyville, and Westchester thanks to a network upgrade recently completed by AT&T.

AT&T said it charges a minimum of $80 a month (with a year-long contract) for internet service along on the faster fiber network. Any TV services carry an additional cost.

“We’re expanding the availability of our fastest internet speeds to more Illinois communities," said AT&T Illinois President Paul La Schiazza.

Currently, the 100% fiber connections are available to about 175,000 locations in the region, the company said. That includes all or parts of the following communities: Aurora, Chicago, Joliet, Des Plaines, Elgin, Michigan City, Norridge, Skokie, Oak Park, Hampshire, Pingree Grove, South Elgin, Oswego, Plano, Yorkville, Mundelein, Volo, Crystal Lake, Huntley, McHenry, Bolingbrook, Channahon and Manhattan.

Berwyn and Oak Lawn are next up to receive fiber upgrades, AT&T said.