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What You Need to Know Now That CenturyLink Is Brightspeed

In late 2022, CenturyLink completed the sale of a significant portion of its wireline assets to a newly formed telecommunications player—Brightspeed. This strategic divestiture involved roughly 6.9 million copper and fiber-enabled homes across 20 states, primarily in the Midwest and Southeast. Lumen Technologies, the parent of CenturyLink, orchestrated the transaction as part of its broader push to streamline operations and invest in high-growth areas such as enterprise fiber and edge computing.

Brightspeed emerged from this transition with a decisive mission: to modernize last-mile broadband infrastructure in underserved communities. Backed by Apollo Global Management, a multibillion-dollar private equity firm, the new company signaled its intentions from the outset. It began operations with former Verizon executive Bob Mudge at the helm as CEO, bringing decades of telecom leadership to the table.

The deal officially closed on October 3, 2022, marking the start of Brightspeed as a brand and broadband provider. Since then, the company has launched new service offerings while initiating a multi-year, $2 billion investment plan—a move positioning it as a disruptive force in rural and suburban connectivity markets.

Brightspeed: A New Force in Rural Connectivity

Company Mission and Values

Brightspeed operates with a clear mission: to deliver dependable, high-speed internet to communities that have long been left behind. The company places a high priority on customer focus, transparency, and ethical conduct. Every decision filters through a commitment to putting people first—whether it's residential customers in remote towns or small businesses on the edge of underserved regions.

Core values like operational excellence, innovation, and integrity shape the company’s long-term goals and everyday decisions. Rather than chasing urban market saturation, Brightspeed deliberately channels its efforts where infrastructure gaps exist. This creates a unique value proposition in an industry where rural expansion has historically lagged behind.

Focus on Rural and Underserved Areas

Brightspeed’s operational footprint is intentionally designed to cover areas that major ISPs overlook. States across the Midwest, South, and certain parts of the Northeast have already started to see implementation efforts. By targeting ZIP codes where fast broadband is either unavailable or unreliable, the company opens doors for new economic opportunities, educational access, and digital inclusion.

The National Broadband Map, maintained by the FCC, shows significant internet speed disparities across regions. Brightspeed uses this data to direct fiber deployments and infrastructure upgrades, addressing service inequity head-on. In rural counties where DSL remains the norm, Brightspeed rolls out gigabit-speed fiber networks with the goal of futureproofing community needs.

Investment Strategy and Overall Tech Vision

Since its formation, Brightspeed has committed over $2 billion toward capital investments. The lion’s share of this funding targets fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) infrastructure. These investments aren’t speculative—they follow a structured, data-driven roadmap that aligns with state-level broadband grant programs and federal initiatives like the BEAD Program (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment).

Unlike legacy telecom operators bound by aging copper networks, Brightspeed builds tech-first. The architecture supports symmetrical upload and download speeds, ultra-low latency, and seamless scaling for future demand spikes driven by 4K streaming, smart home ecosystems, remote work, and cloud-based education platforms.

Brightspeed’s Leadership in Next-Generation Broadband and Fiber

Spearheaded by a leadership team with deep roots in network infrastructure, Brightspeed doesn’t approach the market through telecom inertia. Prior executives from AT&T, Verizon, and Level 3 bring operational discipline and strategic foresight. CEO Bob Mudge, for example, spent nearly four decades leading large-scale network transformations and is known for prioritizing customer experience alongside infrastructure growth.

The technology roadmap prioritizes XGS-PON (10-Gigabit Symmetrical Passive Optical Network) fiber architecture—currently among the highest-capacity residential broadband technologies commercially available. Through strategic vendor partnerships and agile internal operations, Brightspeed aims to deliver gig speeds to three million homes and businesses across 20 states within the next five years.

Looking beyond access speeds, Brightspeed positions itself to lead on network reliability, resilience, and security. That means smarter edge routing, redundant data paths, and locally distributed network hubs that minimize the impact of outages and latency bottlenecks. Combined, these initiatives position Brightspeed as a critical agent of digital transformation in rural America.

Shifting Gears: Transitioning Services From CenturyLink to Brightspeed

What’s Changing Behind the Scenes

The transition from CenturyLink to Brightspeed involves a complex realignment of regional infrastructure, workforce, and technical systems. Brightspeed took over operations in 20 states, acquiring assets such as local fiber networks, copper lines, and switching centers. This means that connectivity, maintenance, and support services in these regions are now fully managed under the Brightspeed brand.

Behind the scenes, Brightspeed has migrated customer data to its new systems — a step that includes account profiles, service packages, and historical billing information. Back-end operations such as network monitoring, routing protocols, and system alerts have also moved to Brightspeed’s control servers. These changes are designed to be seamless, with no action required from customers during the transfer process.

What Happens to Your Plan and Pricing?

Most existing broadband plans remain unchanged immediately following the transition. Customers continue on their current contracts, with the same speeds and pricing inherited from CenturyLink. Brightspeed has publicly committed to honoring these agreements as part of the acquisition terms.

However, new promotions, packaging, and service upgrades are now offered exclusively under the Brightspeed brand. Over time, customers will see phased rollouts of updated speed tiers, fiber internet options, and adjusted pricing models as the company modernizes its infrastructure and product offerings.

Tech Equipment: Routers, Modems, and Compatibility

Current hardware remains compatible. If you received a modem, router, or gateway from CenturyLink, Brightspeed’s system supports those devices without requiring replacement. Firmware updates and remote diagnostics now operate through Brightspeed’s back-end servers, ensuring continuity in performance and troubleshooting.

For customers seeking upgrades, Brightspeed offers newer Wi-Fi 6 enabled equipment. While not mandatory, using Brightspeed-branded gear may enhance speeds, optimize signal stability, and simplify future support calls.

Service Continuity: Zero Downtime Expected

All customers retained uninterrupted service during the handoff from CenturyLink to Brightspeed. The transfer was structured to avoid outages, with technical teams coordinating soft and hard switches during low-usage hours. IP addresses, email accounts, and phone lines remained operational throughout the transition period.

Looking ahead, customers in Brightspeed’s operational areas can expect a more localized support structure, tailored product bundles, and, in many cases, infrastructure upgrades—especially in underserved or rural markets built on older network technologies.

For customers, the shift unlocks access to a company focused solely on broadband and voice services in areas CenturyLink has divested, with new investments targeted at improving speed, reliability, and customer support.

How the Shift to Brightspeed Changes Your Internet and Phone Services

Internet Performance: Matching Growing Demands

The transition from CenturyLink to Brightspeed introduces noticeable upgrades in speed and overall network reliability. Brightspeed is investing heavily in expanding its fiber-optic infrastructure, targeting symmetrical speeds of up to 1 Gbps. That means download and upload speeds match—critical for households relying on video conferencing, cloud collaboration tools, or high-resolution media streaming.

In markets where Brightspeed has already begun fiber deployment, latency has dropped significantly, averaging 3-5 milliseconds. This level of responsiveness supports real-time streaming and gaming without lag. In rural and underserved communities, where customers previously operated on legacy copper DSL connections, the difference in performance becomes even more pronounced.

Emerging Technologies: Broadband Beyond the Basics

Brightspeed's roadmap includes introducing broadband technologies that support the increasing amount of data modern households generate. Their deployment strategy leans heavily on XGS-PON (10 Gigabit-capable Symmetrical Passive Optical Network) infrastructure. This technology enables speeds of up to 10 Gbps and greater bandwidth efficiency, which directly improves network performance during peak usage hours.

New installations also support IPv6 natively, preparing customers for future internet protocol demands while improving routing efficiency and long-term scalability.

Upgraded In-Home Experiences: WiFi 7 Integration

Brightspeed plans to integrate WiFi 7 compatibility into its latest generation of modems and routers. WiFi 7, also known as IEEE 802.11be, supports multi-link operation (MLO), 320 MHz channels, and a peak data rate of up to 46 Gbps—more than four times faster than WiFi 6.

These features reduce interference, support more simultaneous device connections, and improve coverage in large homes. For families using dozens of connected devices—think smartphones, smart TVs, home automation hubs, and security systems—this translates to smoother operation and broader connectivity.

Changes in Landline and Phone Services

Brightspeed continues offering traditional landline and phone services, but there's a gradual shift underway. In several regions, legacy copper services are being phased out over the next few years. This phaseout supports a broader transition to voice-over-IP (VoIP) solutions that operate over the faster, more stable fiber backbone.

Expect more updates as Brightspeed expands its fiber network and continues modernizing its legacy assets. For now, performance gains and new service options are already rolling out—and more is on the horizon.

What’s Changing With Billing and Account Management Under Brightspeed

New Online Portals: What’s Different and What Remains

With the transition from CenturyLink to Brightspeed, customers will notice a redesigned online account portal. The legacy My CenturyLink portal no longer services users who fall under Brightspeed’s coverage. Instead, all billing, service management, and account updates now go through the Brightspeed Customer Portal.

Returning features include:

What’s new? The Brightspeed interface integrates a more streamlined dashboard, real-time billing updates, and quicker response on service change requests. Users no longer use the CenturyLink credentials or navigation system—Brightspeed rebuilt its portal architecture from the ground up on a new backend platform.

How to Log In to Your Brightspeed Account

To access the Brightspeed portal:

Multi-factor authentication is now standard. Expect a six-digit verification code sent to your registered device during your first sign-in. You can select trusted devices for future logins.

First Few Billing Cycles: What to Expect

The first two billing cycles under Brightspeed may reflect transitional adjustments. Here’s what customers commonly experience:

Some customers may receive a final statement from CenturyLink and a separate first bill from Brightspeed. The payment deadline of the new Brightspeed invoice aligns with the original billing cycle, unless notified otherwise via email or mail.

View Your Payment History and Plan Details

Brightspeed imported up to 12 months of past billing history from CenturyLink into the new system. To find previous payments or monitor current plan status:

If any records prior to 12 months are needed, customers will have to request them through Brightspeed customer care. The legacy CenturyLink portal no longer holds these records for migrated accounts.

Want to verify if your plan migrated correctly? The account overview page displays your current service tier and terms—including data usage caps, equipment ownership, and contract end-dates. Adjustments and upgrades can be executed directly through the portal.

Where Brightspeed Is Available Now: Updated Service Area and Network Coverage

Brightspeed’s emergence following the divestiture from CenturyLink has shifted internet and phone service coverage across a wide swath of the United States. The network footprint has been realigned, with selected regions transitioning out of Lumen Technologies (CenturyLink’s parent company) and into Brightspeed’s operational domain.

States and Regions Now Under Brightspeed

Brightspeed currently serves portions of 20 states, primarily in the Midwest, South, and rural markets that were previously underserved. The transition impacts customers in:

Changes are not uniform across each state. Specific zip codes and exchange areas have shifted to Brightspeed management, while others remain with CenturyLink or third-party providers.

Updated Network Coverage Map

Brightspeed published a detailed network coverage map highlighting which territories fall under their current and planned service area. The map allows searches by ZIP code, revealing not only current availability but also zones scheduled for fiber upgrades.

ZIP-Code Level Changes in Service Availability

In many markets, users who input their ZIP codes into Brightspeed's service locator tool will now see different availability data than they did under CenturyLink. Some rural areas previously served only by slower DSL connections are now scheduled for fiber rollout beginning in 2024. Conversely, certain urban ZIP codes remain ineligible for upgrades this year as Brightspeed focuses initial investments on underserved regions.

Expansion Powered by Capital Investment

Brightspeed has earmarked $2 billion for infrastructure expansion, according to its October 2022 launch announcement. This investment will extend fiber internet to as many as 3 million homes and businesses within its territory by the end of 2025. The company began construction projects in markets such as North Carolina, Missouri, and Ohio—targeting communities with historically limited broadband options.

These investments translate directly into increased coverage density in Brightspeed areas. Smaller exchanges are gaining new points of presence, shortening last-mile connections and boosting speed potential. The focus stays on building out fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP), rather than relying on older DSL technologies still used by predecessors.

Brightspeed’s Future: Broadband Expansion and Fiber Rollout

Brightspeed has committed over $2 billion toward strengthening broadband infrastructure across its network, taking a decisive step to transform connectivity in underserved regions. This investment accelerates the company's shift from legacy copper systems to advanced high-speed fiber, laying the foundation for modern digital needs in both rural and suburban communities.

Deployment Timeline and Phased Rollout

The multi-year rollout began in late 2022 with an aggressive deployment strategy. During 2023 alone, Brightspeed aimed to reach more than 1 million locations with new fiber service. By 2026, the company plans to cover over 3 million homes and businesses across 20 states. Each region follows a phased construction timeline, beginning with infrastructure assessment and permitting, followed by network build and service activation.

Next-Gen Technologies and Competitive Speeds

Brightspeed’s network upgrades are anchored by XGS-PON fiber technology, which supports symmetrical speeds up to 10 Gbps. This backbone not only meets current demands for streaming, cloud computing, and smart home integrations—it also enables readiness for future upgrades like WiFi 7 routers and 5G backhaul.

Servicing Underserved Areas

Most of the fiber build targets regions that have been historically overlooked. Brightspeed’s network strategy focuses on Tier 2 and Tier 3 suburban cities, along with rural townships where legacy DSL lines have long underperformed. This approach opens a path to high-speed access for communities currently facing limited or outdated connectivity options. Over 70% of the planned network build falls in these rural and low-competition ZIP codes.

Availability for New Customers

As each phase goes live, new customers in serviceable areas can pre-register online to be notified of install availability. Brightspeed bundles residential internet with unlimited data, no annual contracts, and flat-rate pricing. For small and midsize businesses, fiber packages include static IP options, SD-WAN capabilities, and scalable bandwidth tiers designed for growth.

What does that mean for homeowners, students, and teleworkers in your local area? Faster uploads, smoother video calls, and infrastructure that won’t need replacing for a decade or more. Curious whether your ZIP code is on the build path? Enter your address at Brightspeed.com and see what’s rolling out next door.

Customer Support: Brightspeed vs. CenturyLink

Different Name, Different Experience: Support That Actually Picks Up

With Brightspeed stepping in where CenturyLink stepped out, customer support hasn’t just changed logos—it’s changed course. For years, CenturyLink’s customer service ranked poorly in industry benchmarks. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), CenturyLink scored 62 out of 100 in 2021 for fixed-line internet service, placing it below the national average. Brightspeed isn’t just aiming higher; it's rebuilding the interaction model from scratch.

Customers now navigate a support ecosystem engineered to reduce friction. Interface overhaul, streamlined self-service portals, tighter integration with billing tools—every feature comes with measurable impact. Early user feedback from Brightspeed’s pilot rollout period in late 2022 cited response times up to 40% faster via live chat compared to legacy CenturyLink systems. Email confirmations and proactive status updates further reduce the guesswork.

 

Support Infrastructure: Legacy vs. Modern Stack

Unlike CenturyLink’s fragmented backend, Brightspeed deploys a centralized customer relationship management (CRM) system built on Salesforce Service Cloud. This lets support agents access full customer histories in one interface—billing, technical issues, service modification requests—eliminating the need for customers to repeat information multiple times.

There’s also an internal feedback loop in place. Post-interaction surveys in both chat and email generate data that shapes ongoing training and support scripts, leading to fewer call escalations and higher first-call resolution rates. A company spokesperson confirmed that first-contact resolution reached 85% within the first six months of operational transition.

Want to test it for yourself? Open the chat window or place a call and track how long it takes before you hear a real voice. Odds are, it'll be a shorter wait than you ever had with CenturyLink.