In the ever-connected world we live in, where a stable internet connection can make or break your day, one company has emerged as a standout in the Michiana region. Surf Internet has been crowned the Best Internet Provider in Michiana for the fourth consecutive year by Northwest Indiana Business Magazine. This isn’t just a one-off win—it’s a testament to their consistent excellence, reliability, and dedication to the communities they serve. Announced in the 2024 Best of Business Awards, this accolade underscores Surf Internet’s position as a leader in the telecommunications landscape of Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan.

But what does it take to secure such a title four years running? How does a local provider rise above the competition in an industry dominated by giants? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore Surf Internet’s journey, dissect their winning formula, and look ahead to what their future holds. From their humble beginnings to their cutting-edge fiber optic expansions, this is the story of how Surf Internet has become a household name in Michiana—and why they’re likely to stay that way.

Who Is Surf Internet? A Local Powerhouse with Deep Roots

Surf Internet isn’t a faceless corporation headquartered thousands of miles away. Founded in 1995 as MapleNet, this Elkhart, Indiana-based company has been a fixture in the Michiana region for nearly 30 years. Over the decades, they’ve evolved from a small wireless provider to a robust internet service provider (ISP) offering a range of connectivity options: fiber optic, cable, and DSL. Their service area spans multiple counties in Indiana and Michigan, including St. Joseph, Elkhart, LaPorte, Marshall, Kosciusko, and parts of Berrien and Cass counties in Michigan. This broad coverage makes them a vital lifeline for both urban centers and rural communities alike.

The company’s journey hasn’t been static. In 2015, they rebranded from MapleNet to Surf Air Wireless, reflecting their focus on wireless internet solutions. Later, they adopted the name Surf Internet, signaling their expansion into fiber and wired services. A pivotal moment came in 2021 when Surf Internet partnered with private equity firms Bain Capital and Post Road Group. This infusion of capital has supercharged their growth, enabling them to accelerate the rollout of fiber optic infrastructure across the Great Lakes region, as reported by Fierce Telecom.

What sets Surf Internet apart is their local identity. Their team lives and works in the communities they serve, giving them a unique understanding of the region’s needs. Whether it’s ensuring a farmer in Marshall County can manage their business online or helping a family in Elkhart stream their favorite shows, Surf Internet tailors its services to fit Michiana’s diverse landscape. This hometown advantage has been a key driver of their success, fostering trust and loyalty among customers who value a provider that feels like a neighbor, not a distant conglomerate.

The Award: A Reader-Driven Seal of Approval

The Northwest Indiana Business Magazine has been a trusted voice in the region since 1991, chronicling the triumphs and challenges of local businesses. Their annual Best of Business Awards are a highlight of the year, celebrating companies that excel in categories ranging from financial services to technology. What makes these awards special is their foundation in community feedback. Readers of the magazine—real people who live, work, and rely on these services—cast their votes to determine the winners.

In 2024, Surf Internet didn’t just win one award—they took home two: Best Internet Provider and Best Telecommunications Firm in Michiana. This double victory is a rare feat, highlighting their dominance in the telecom space. The awards were announced in the magazine’s August issue, with Surf Internet earning the top spot based on thousands of votes from satisfied customers. It’s not a decision made by a panel of distant judges or industry insiders—it’s a grassroots endorsement from the people who matter most: the users.

Winning once is impressive. Winning four years in a row is extraordinary. Since 2021, Surf Internet has held the Best Internet Provider title without interruption, a streak that speaks to their ability to deliver consistently excellent service in a competitive market. The awards aren’t just a pat on the back—they’re a signal to the industry and the community that Surf Internet is doing something right, year after year.

A Legacy of Excellence: Four Years and Counting

Four consecutive wins don’t happen by accident. In an industry where customer satisfaction can fluctuate with every outage or billing dispute, Surf Internet’s sustained success is a remarkable achievement. It’s a sign that they’ve cracked the code on what Michiana residents want: fast, reliable internet backed by stellar support.

This winning streak began in 2021, a year that also marked their partnership with Bain Capital and Post Road Group. Since then, they’ve maintained their top position despite growing competition from national providers and emerging local players. Each victory builds on the last, reinforcing Surf Internet’s reputation as a dependable choice in a region where internet reliability can be a make-or-break issue, as noted in a 2023 industry analysis by BroadbandNow.

What does this consistency say about Surf Internet? For one, it suggests they’ve mastered the art of keeping customers happy. It also indicates they’ve adapted to the rapid changes in technology and demand—think remote work, online learning, and streaming—that have redefined what “good internet” means since 2020. Most importantly, it reflects a deep trust from the community, a trust earned through years of delivering on promises and exceeding expectations.

Why Surf Internet Wins: The Secrets to Their Success

So, what’s the magic behind Surf Internet’s four-year reign? Let’s break it down into the key ingredients that have made them a standout provider.

1. Speed and Reliability: Fiber Optics at the Forefront

In the internet game, speed is king—and Surf Internet delivers. Their investment in fiber optic technology has been a game-changer, offering customers lightning-fast download and upload speeds with minimal latency. Unlike traditional DSL or cable, fiber optics use light to transmit data, resulting in a more stable and efficient connection, as explained by CNET. Customers in areas like South Bend and Goshen rave about speeds that consistently hit or exceed advertised rates, with one reviewer noting, “I’ve never had buffering issues since switching to Surf’s fiber plan.”

Reliability is just as critical. Surf Internet boasts a network uptime that rivals industry leaders, with minimal outages even in rural areas prone to spotty service. This dependability is a lifeline for businesses relying on cloud-based tools and families juggling multiple devices at home.

2. Customer Service That Cares

Ask any Surf Internet customer what they love most, and you’ll likely hear about the support. Unlike the endless phone menus of national ISPs, Surf Internet offers a personal touch. Their support team is local, responsive, and genuinely invested in solving problems. A Google review from a St. Joseph County resident sums it up: “The tech support guy was at my house within hours and had me back online in no time. You don’t get that with the big guys.” This aligns with findings from a Consumer Reports survey highlighting the value of localized support.

This focus on customer care extends beyond troubleshooting. Surf Internet’s billing is transparent, with no hidden fees or surprise rate hikes—a common complaint with competitors. Their willingness to go the extra mile has earned them a loyal fanbase that keeps voting them to the top.

3. Community Commitment

Surf Internet doesn’t just serve Michiana—they’re part of it. Over the years, they’ve supported local events like the Elkhart County 4-H Fair and partnered with schools to provide free or discounted internet during the pandemic. In 2023, they launched an initiative to bring fiber to underserved rural areas, ensuring that even remote households can access high-speed internet. This community-first mindset resonates with residents who value a provider that gives back.

4. Affordable Pricing

In a market where internet bills can skyrocket, Surf Internet keeps things reasonable. Their plans start at competitive rates—often lower than those of national providers like Xfinity or AT&T—without sacrificing quality. For example, their basic fiber plan offers 100 Mbps for under $50 a month, a steal compared to similar offerings from competitors, as benchmarked by PCMag. This affordability makes high-speed internet accessible to a wider range of customers, from budget-conscious families to small businesses.

5. Innovation and Investment

Surf Internet isn’t resting on its laurels. The 2021 investment from Bain Capital and Post Road Group has fueled an aggressive expansion of their fiber network. They’ve laid thousands of miles of fiber optic cable across Michiana, with plans to reach even more homes and businesses. This forward-thinking approach ensures they’re not just keeping up with demand—they’re anticipating it.

How Surf Internet Stacks Up: A Comparison to the Competition

Michiana isn’t short on internet options. National giants like Xfinity, AT&T, and Frontier operate in the region, alongside smaller players like Mercury Broadband. So how does Surf Internet hold its own? Let’s compare.

Speed and Technology

Xfinity and AT&T offer fiber in some areas, but their coverage is patchy outside urban hubs like South Bend. Surf Internet, by contrast, has prioritized fiber deployment across both urban and rural zones, giving them an edge in consistency. Frontier relies heavily on DSL, which lags behind fiber and cable in speed and reliability—Surf Internet’s DSL is a fallback, not their flagship.

Pricing

Xfinity’s plans often start low but balloon with fees and contract traps. AT&T’s fiber is fast but pricey, with introductory rates that spike after a year. Surf Internet keeps pricing straightforward and competitive, with no long-term contracts required. Mercury Broadband offers wireless internet at decent rates, but their speeds don’t match Surf’s fiber offerings.

Customer Service

National providers are notorious for outsourced support and long wait times, as noted in a J.D. Power study. Surf Internet’s local team outshines them, offering quick resolutions and a personal touch. Mercury Broadband gets decent reviews, but their smaller scale limits their responsiveness compared to Surf’s robust support system.

Coverage

While Xfinity and AT&T dominate cities, Surf Internet excels in rural areas where big players often neglect to invest. Their focus on underserved communities gives them a unique niche—and a grateful customer base.

In short, Surf Internet combines the best of both worlds: the advanced technology of national providers and the personalized service of a local company. It’s a winning combo that keeps them ahead of the pack.

Why Reliable Internet Matters: Surf Internet’s Impact on Michiana

In 2024, internet isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Remote work has become the norm for many professionals, with tools like Zoom and Google Workspace requiring a rock-solid connection. Students rely on online platforms for homework and virtual classes, especially in a post-pandemic world. Even leisure—think Netflix, gaming, or video calls with family—demands bandwidth that doesn’t falter.

For Michiana, a region with a mix of bustling towns and quiet countryside, reliable internet can be a lifeline. Rural areas often get shortchanged by big ISPs, leaving residents with slow, spotty service. Surf Internet steps in where others won’t, delivering fiber to places like Plymouth and Nappanee. This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about equity. By connecting these communities, Surf Internet opens doors to economic opportunities, education, and social engagement that might otherwise be out of reach, a point emphasized by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Take a small business owner in LaPorte County, for instance. With Surf Internet’s fiber, they can run an e-commerce site, process payments, and video conference with clients without lag or dropped connections. Or consider a student in Elkhart, streaming lectures and submitting assignments seamlessly. These everyday wins add up, making Surf Internet a catalyst for progress in the region.

Looking Ahead: Surf Internet’s Big Plans

Surf Internet isn’t content to sit still. With their fourth win under their belt, they’re charging toward an ambitious future. Their top priority? Expanding their fiber optic network. By 2025, they aim to serve over 250,000 homes and businesses across Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois, growing their subscriber base to 75,000. This expansion will bring high-speed internet to even more rural corners of Michiana, solidifying their role as a regional leader.

They’re also exploring 5G wireless technology, which could complement their fiber offerings. 5G promises ultra-fast speeds and flexibility, ideal for areas where laying cable isn’t practical, as outlined by TechRadar. If successful, this could position Surf Internet as a pioneer in hybrid internet solutions.

Funding these goals isn’t cheap, but Surf Internet is well-positioned. They’re pursuing grants from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, a federal initiative to boost internet access nationwide. Combined with their private equity backing, these resources will fuel projects that enhance Michiana’s digital infrastructure for decades to come.

Innovation isn’t just about tech—it’s about people. Surf Internet plans to deepen their community ties, with more partnerships and outreach on the horizon. Whether it’s sponsoring local sports teams or bridging the digital divide, they’re committed to being more than just an ISP—they’re aiming to be a cornerstone of Michiana life.

Top 10 FAQs About Surf Internet

1. What areas does Surf Internet serve?

Surf Internet covers multiple counties in Indiana (St. Joseph, Elkhart, LaPorte, Marshall, Kosciusko) and Michigan (parts of Berrien and Cass). Check their coverage map for exact availability in your area.

2. What types of internet does Surf Internet offer?

They provide fiber optic, cable, and DSL services. Fiber is their flagship, offering the fastest speeds, while cable and DSL serve areas still awaiting fiber expansion.

3. How fast are Surf Internet’s speeds?

Fiber plans range from 100 Mbps to over 1 Gbps, depending on location. Cable and DSL top out at lower speeds but still meet basic needs. Visit Surf Internet’s plans page for specifics.

4. Is there a data cap?

No, Surf Internet offers unlimited data on all plans, a big plus compared to providers like Xfinity, which impose caps in some regions, per CNET.

5. How much does Surf Internet cost?

Pricing starts at around $40–$50/month for basic fiber (100 Mbps), with higher tiers costing more. There are no contracts or hidden fees, making it competitive, as noted by PCMag.

6. What’s the installation process like?

Installation is typically free for fiber setups, with a technician visit scheduled within days. DSL and cable may require self-installation in some cases. Contact their support team for details.

7. How reliable is Surf Internet?

Their fiber network boasts near-100% uptime, even in rural areas. Outages are rare, and their local team resolves issues quickly, aligning with customer feedback and industry standards from BroadbandNow.

8. Can I bundle TV or phone services?

Currently, Surf Internet focuses on internet-only plans. However, they’re exploring partnerships for bundled services as part of their 2025 expansion—stay tuned to their news page.

9. What’s their customer service like?

Surf Internet’s local support team is a standout, offering same-day resolutions and no long hold times. This contrasts with national ISPs, as highlighted in Consumer Reports.

10. Is Surf Internet expanding?

Yes, they’re targeting 250,000+ homes by 2025 with fiber and exploring 5G. They’re also leveraging BEAD Program grants to reach more rural areas.

These answers reflect Surf Internet’s current offerings and plans, addressing the most pressing questions from Michiana residents.

Final Thoughts: Surf Internet’s Well-Earned Crown

Surf Internet’s fourth consecutive win as Michiana’s Best Internet Provider is no fluke—it’s the result of nearly 30 years of hard work, smart investments, and a genuine connection to the community. From their blazing-fast fiber to their top-notch customer service, they’ve built a service that meets the region’s needs and exceeds its expectations.

What makes Surf Internet special is their ability to balance cutting-edge technology with a hometown feel. They’re not perfect—no ISP is—but their track record speaks for itself. Four years at the top isn’t luck; it’s a sign of a company that listens, adapts, and delivers.

For Michiana residents, Surf Internet is more than a provider—it’s a partner in navigating the digital age. As they gear up for their 25th anniversary in 2025, their latest award is both a celebration of the past and a promise of the future. With big plans and a bigger heart, Surf Internet is poised to keep Michiana connected, empowered, and thriving for years to come.