Qwest working to crank up Internet speeds

Qwest Communications is currently laying the infrastructure that will crank up its Internet speed in Maricopa by year’s end.

The fiber-optic network doubles the company’s current fastest connection, promising download speeds of 40 megabits and upload speeds of 20 megabits.

“Broadband providers have primarily focused on download speeds because, until recently, the Internet has been mostly a source for content, especially online video. Now, as more people create and share their own content, upload speeds have become increasingly important,” said Amy Lind, IDC Research Manager, Consumer Broadband and Mobile Services.

Currently the fastest Internet speeds available to Maricopa residents are 9 megabits down and one megabit up.

“These are the fastest upload speeds available in the state,” said Qwest spokesperson Mark Molzen.

With the higher speeds will come new pricing packages.

The entry-level package will allow existing Qwest customers with either 7 megabit download service to upgrade their upload speed to five megabit for an additional $5 a month.

A new standalone 40-down and five-up service will cost $99.99 a month and the 40-down 20-up service will cost $109.99 per month. Both pricing rates are for 12-month introductory service dependent upon being tiered with a home-phone package.

“This is all about perfecting the customer experience by anticipating their needs and delivering products and services that often exceed expectations. By delivering the speeds customers want, we are able to complement their lifestyles with new capabilities that will enhance their broadband experience,” said Neil Cox, executive vice president of Qwest Product and IT.