Socket (telecommunications)

Socket is a Missouri-based telecommunications provider, with its headquarters in Columbia, Missouri. Socket is a privately held company and offers local and long distance phone service, DSL and dial-up internet, and data solutions to residents and businesses across Missouri.

History

Founded in 1994 by George Pfenenger and John Dupuy, Socket Internet quickly became the largest local internet provider in Missouri. In 2001 Inc. (magazine) ranked Socket Internet 136th on its list of America's Top 500 fastest-Growing Private Held Companies. Also in 2001 Technology Fast 50, ranked Socket 4th in The Fast 50, which recognizes the 50 fastest growing technology companies in a given geographic area. In 2004, Socket expanded into the telephone industry, offering business telephone and networking services.

In 2008, the company began offering residential telephone service in select markets. Socket now provides phone services and DSL Internet to most of Missouri.

In 2010, Socket was awarded $23.7 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to deploy a fiber-to-the-home network in Callaway County. Construction for the project began in late 2011 with the first residential customers Fiber Internet service being installed in May 2012. The project is expected to have a major impact in Millersburg, MO and Callaway County where residents are limited to dial-up and satellite Internet options.

The company offers flat rate pricing as well as no contract Internet services.