When it comes to internet usage, your priorities are likely to center around security and connectivity, which is where both Akamai and CenturyLink step in.
Akamai and CenturyLink could not be more different from each other – Akamai focuses on CDN services, while CenturyLink is an internet provider as well as a telecommunications company. With that said, they do share some similar traits, so it always proves helpful to compare them and see which one fits your needs the most.
Differences between Akamai and CenturyLink
Akamai | CenturyLink |
|
|---|---|---|
Purpose | Cybersecurity, cloud services, CDN (Content Delivery Network) | Telecommunications (internet, voice,) |
Monthly pricing | Customized (depends according to your location and needs) | Between $50 and $65 monthly, depending on which internet package you choose |
Number of tiers | Unspecified | 2 (for internet), 3 (for TV and phone services) |
Akamai vs. CenturyLink – How they compare
Aims
The two companies have different goals and objectives. CenturyLink aims to provide internet connectivity through both DSL and fiber optic connections, and signing up for their plans allows you to access the internet from the comfort of your home. Their realm also extends to the world of telecommunications, so they offer TV, phone, and voice services as well, targeting both small businesses and residential users.
On the other hand, Akamai is more of a cloud service, cybersecurity, and CDN (content delivery network) company, so they give their users both internet and web security services. They do so by owning and operating various network servers globally, and they will use algorithms to rent out these servers in different capacities to users that want to distribute content from locations near them. Additionally, the company also implements security services such as DDoS mitigation through their edge server platforms.
The choice of the two companies depends on your ultimate goals; CenturyLink is better if you just want the benefit of internet access, while Akamai is your best bet if you want cybersecurity benefits. Akamai is the better choice, as it is more versatile with its usage scope.
Pricing
Unlike CenturyLink, Akamai does not have a definite pricing plan or pricing tiers – instead, you pay a customized fee that takes your preferred features into account. These features include static content caching, custom SSLs, dynamic content routing, and custom reports, as well as other functions like data integration. While this allows for flexible pricing, it can prove disadvantageous if you are looking to plan ahead concerning your monthly costs before signing up for the service.
CenturyLink, on the other hand, has two tiers on their internet package platform; one costing $50 monthly, and the other costing $65 monthly. The cheaper option connects you to their DSL internet package, with the benefit of widespread availability, while the second option connects you to their fiber internet package that has higher speeds despite the more limited coverage.
Between the two options, we will put CenturyLink as the winner as its pricing plans are more defined and more information is available on them, compared to Akamai.
Akamai vs CenturyLink – A comparison review
Akamai review
Akamai Technologies is well known for their content delivery networks, as well as their provision of both internet and web security services. They will cost significantly more than most of their competitors, as they aim to offer premium functionalities to you at prices that reflect their availability and value of their performance.
Pros
- Very reliable API
- Very fast CDN services
- Levels of security and internet protection are superior compared to most competitors
Cons
- Complex registration process
- Not very accessible in most areas
- Quite pricey in their offerings
CenturyLink review
For people that want internet connections to their homes or businesses, CenturyLink is among the options you should consider. They offer both DSL and fiber optic connectivity, so the monthly fees you pay will depend on the connectivity option you choose.
While their services are widely available and quite affordable compared to their competitors, many users complain about their customer service, slow internet speeds, and confusing availability of download speeds.
Pros
- All plans have unlimited data as part of the package
- You can apply for their Gig Fiber connectivity if you live in select cities
- No cancellation fees and no contracts
- Quite affordable in pricing
Cons
- Speed performance is relatively poor
- Customer service is difficult to reach
- Download speeds have confusing availability
Verdict: So, which of the two is the winner? Akamai or CenturyLink?
It is challenging to choose a winner here because both companies have different objectives and fulfill them in different ways. However, online security is always the best option, so Akamai wins it based on their provision of this service, which is a useful addition to your internet usage experience.
FAQs
Does CenturyLink need contracts when you join their services?
No, it does not. The company offers their plans with a no-term commitment policy, allowing you to pa month-to-month and cancel your service without paying an early termination fee. However, you will need to accept their High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement before signing up to their service.
How many servers does Akamai have throughout the world?
In terms of global capacity, the company operates a network of more than 300 Tbps that are spread out across more than 4,200 locations and 135 countries.