Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) in Texas

Save on phone service with Texas CLECs

Several CLECs serve the state of Texas. Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC) in Texas have been around since the Telecommunications Act of 1996. They compete with Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers (ILEC). ILECs are the carriers that were in place before deregulation. Most are Regional Bell Operating Companies that were created after the break up of AT&T in the 1980s.

The Telecommunications Act of 1996 enabled these Texas CLECs to offer long distance service in exchange for allowing competition for local phone service. An ILEC company is usually your default carrier and competes with CLECs for phone service and other offerings.

Most Competitive Local Exchange Carriers use rack space and lines provided by the ILEC and resell the services to local customers, although some larger companies host their own lines. Here is some information about Competitive Local Exchange Carriers in Texas:

1. CLECs in Texas range in size from smaller local companies to national providers.

2. CLECs can offer savings through bundled services and discounts.

3. CLECs may also offer savings on other services like DSL and other high speed Internet access.

Look at large CLECs in Texas

Many competitive local exchange carriers are large telecommunications companies that operate throughout the United States. These companies often offer lower prices as well as reliable service.

Consider smaller local telecom carriers in Texas

A smaller company can offer personal service and a great deal.

Find listings of Competitive Local Exchange Carriers in Texas

It's a good idea to shop around and get as many prices as possible before making a choice. To find more options, browse listings of local Competitive Local Exchange providers.
Federal Communications Commission and the Public Utility Commission of Texas offer lists of CLECs that offer service in the state. The Texas Statewide Telephone Cooperative lists rural independent telecommunications providers.

• While smaller Texas CLECs often offer great rates, their control over system outages may be limited. Reliable phone service is important to any business, so make sure to get references and check with other customers before committing to a CLEC.
• Determine whether price or features is the most important factor in choosing a CLEC.
• Find services that will grow with your needs. Even if some services aren't required now, they may be useful in the future. Find out if you have the ability to upgrade to more advanced options down the road.

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