Does Your Internet Hold Up to Its Promise? Vote in the 2026 People's Picks Awards

Your internet provider might promise lightning speeds, but does it actually deliver? CNET is calling on consumers to settle the score with the 2026 People's Picks Awards for internet service providers — a survey that lets real users decide which ISPs deserve the crown.

CNET, a leading tech media outlet, has opened voting for its 2026 People's Picks Awards focused on internet service providers (ISPs). The awards invite residential broadband subscribers across the United States to rate their current ISP on key criteria including speed, reliability, customer service, and value. The goal is to surface the best (and worst) performers in an industry where marketing claims often outpace real-world experience.

The People's Picks Awards debuted for ISPs in 2024, following CNET's long-running consumer awards in categories like mobile phones and laptops. The shift reflects growing consumer frustration with opaque pricing, hidden fees, and inconsistent performance. In an era of remote work and streaming, reliable home internet is no longer a luxury — it's essential. CNET's initiative arrives as federal broadband subsidies like the Affordable Connectivity Program face uncertain renewal, making consumer feedback more critical than ever.

This year's survey evaluates six core metrics: speed consistency, uptime reliability, customer support responsiveness, price transparency, installation ease, and overall satisfaction. Participants can vote via CNET's dedicated portal from March through June 2026. To qualify for ranking, an ISP must receive at least 100 verified submissions. CNET aggregates the scores using a weighted algorithm, producing both regional and national leaderboards. Past winners include Verizon Fios in the fiber category and Xfinity for cable, but new entrants like T-Mobile Home Internet and Starlink could shake up the 2026 standings.

The ISP People's Picks Awards matter because they shift power from marketing departments to real users. Unlike industry speed tests or analyst reports, these awards reflect lived experiences — from the technician who arrived on time to the outage that lasted hours. "We want to hear what you think about your ISP," CNET states in its announcement, emphasizing that every vote helps build a transparent picture of the market. Industry observers note that such crowdsourced data often correlates with churn rates: ISPs that rank poorly in customer satisfaction tend to lose subscribers faster.

Looking ahead, the results — expected in July 2026 — could influence everything from ISP marketing campaigns to regulatory scrutiny. If major providers like Comcast or AT&T consistently underperform, pressure may mount for clearer performance disclosures. Conversely, smaller ISPs or fiber cooperatives that score highly could see a surge in sign-ups. The awards also set a benchmark for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, where broadband access remains a bipartisan issue. For consumers, the message is simple: if your internet doesn't hold up, now is the time to speak up.