Many people see ads for fiber internet and don’t understand what it is. They wonder if they should switch from their current provider to one offering this option. Before doing so, they may want a basic understanding of how it works. The following guide provides this information.
The Basics of Fiber Internet
Fiber internet transmits data using light pulses. This data moves through glass or plastic optical cables to reach its destination. Wired connections were popular once, but high speed fiber internet is faster and more reliable, so many people are switching. Fiber offers several benefits over copper coaxial cables and phone lines. Data moves through the network rapidly, and fiber offers higher bandwidth capacity. Symmetrical speeds mean uploads and downloads take the same amount of time. Fiber is significantly faster overall.
Fiber Connections
Fiber connections come in many variations. Fiber to the home (FTTH) is also known as fiber to the premises (FTTP). With either, the home connects directly to the provider’s network. However, some people have fiber to the node (FTTN). The fiber line stops in their neighborhood or street, and a coaxial cable or DSL line is used to connect to the home. This type of connection may not offer the same speed as an FTTP or FTTH connection.
Fiber Availability
One problem many people encounter when researching fiber internet is they find it isn’t offered in their area. The United States Federal Communications Commission reports less than half of the US population has access to fiber internet. Cable and DSL internet are very common. Choosing a provider typically isn’t an option for those with access to fiber. They only have one choice.
The Benefits of Fiber Internet
Fiber internet offers the fastest speeds available today. Performance is excellent, and fiber is a reliable source of internet access. Performance issues and lag become a thing of the past when this option is selected, making it ideal for gaming, streaming, and workplaces with multiple users. Anyone who experiences performance issues with their current provider should look into fiber internet availability in their area.
Many people are surprised to learn that fiber internet costs are comparable to cable internet costs. Data caps and contracts are rare in the fiber internet industry, and users rarely deal with price increases after the first year. However, a user might need to lease a router rather than buy one or get one for free. Many other internet providers do the same today. Furthermore, there might be an installation fee. Ask about free installation and other benefits of switching to fiber internet. A provider might be willing to offer discounts if asked.
Making the Switch
Is fiber internet the right choice for you? When it is available, most people find the answer to this question is yes. They find it is a great value compared to cable, satellite, and DSL options. The speeds seen with this internet option are impressive and apply to both uploads and downloads, which is not the case with most other internet options.
Many families find fiber internet is more than they truly need, but they love the speed. Large households, where multiple family members access the internet simultaneously, will love the fiber connection, and the same holds for gamers and those who rely heavily on streaming services. Contact a fiber internet provider today to learn whether your area offers the option. If it does, it’s time to learn more.
