EarthLink Continues Fiber Optic and Fixed Wireless Expansion

EarthLink stated that it has acquired BroadAspect’s fiber optic and fixed wireless networks. The company stated that this transaction will strengthen its network operations on the East Coast.
EarthLink did not disclose the transaction terms.
Glenn Goad, CEO of EarthLink, said in a press release: “We very much welcome BroadAspect to join the EarthLink family.” Joining the BroadAspect network was our fourth acquisition of a fixed wireless company last year, which marks EarthLink’s expansion strategy. Together with One Ring Networks, Telegia and QX.net, our extensive network enables us to provide high-speed Internet nationwide. “
EarthLink stated that it will take over the management of BroadAspect’s fiber optic and fixed wireless businesses, but will continue to serve as the brand for managing IT and network security companies.
This transaction marks the strategic acceleration that EarthLink began a few years ago. In 2021, the company launched nationwide 4G and 5G fixed wireless services on T-Mobile’s network.

Then, starting from 2023, EarthLink began to convene fixed wireless operators. Firstly, it acquired One Ring Networks, a fixed wireless operator spanning across Arizona, California, Georgia, Maryland, and Texas (One Ring also acquired Telegia in Baltimore, Maryland around the same time). Earlier this year, EarthLink acquired QX.net, another fixed wireless operator in Kentucky.
“Our vision at EarthLink – to create a broader network covering every corner of the country – is becoming a reality,” said Goad, CEO of EarthLink.
The Internet service of EarthLink brand has existed for more than 30 years, but the company itself has also experienced several iterations. Recently, Windstream acquired EarthLink for US $673 million in 2016, ending EarthLink’s tenure as a listed Internet service provider.

But then, Windstream sold EarthLink’s consumer Internet business to Trive Capital, a Dallas based private equity firm, with $330 million in cash in 2018. At that time, Trive boasted that EarthLink provided more than 600000 customers in the United States with Internet access, advanced e-mail, network hosting, privacy and data security products and services.
Then, in 2021, Trive announced that it had recapitalized EarthLink through a new agreement with Cerberus Business Finance. Trive executives welcomed this move, and General Manager Shravan Thadani said at the time, “EarthLink’s ability to attract new loan partners to join the business proves the hard work and partnership between Trive and the company’s management team. In just two years, they have expanded and turned the business around, creating an exciting growth story for employees and investors.”
Trive stated in the announcement that EarthLink’s customer base has increased from 600000 in 2018 to 800000 in 2021.
According to BroadbandNow, EarthLink currently provides a hybrid service of DSL, fiber optic, satellite, and wireless technologies to nearly 100 million people. BroadbandNow states that in terms of fiber optics, EarthLink is equipped with AT&T’s network.
EarthLink sells various services on its website, ranging from 5 Gbit/s fiber optic connections to Viasat powered satellite connections. It also provides enterprises with optical Internet connectivity and fixed wireless backup options.