The Basics of Fiber Internet

From DSL to cable and fiber, Internet subscribers face seemingly endless choices when it comes to connection options. While DSL and cable are widely used services, the fiber-optic Internet is uncharted territory for many. Despite its smaller user base, the fiber-optic Internet offers many unique advantages over DSL and cable. If you are considering switching to fiber optic Internet, this is the guide for you. What is fiber Internet and how does it work? Unlike DSL or cable, fiber optic Internet is based on optical cables made up of thousands of thin glass wires that contain three parts: the core, the sheath and the protective sheath. The cable transmits data through light signals that travel through the core and the light is reflected by the sheath, allowing the signals to move along the cable. What are the benefits of fiber Internet? The biggest advantage of the fiber Internet is its speed. It is the fastest Internet option available, because its optical cables can quickly transport large amounts of data over long distances. Some fiber connections offer downstream speeds of up to 1 Gbps, which is 50 times faster than the national average of 18.2 Mbps. 

If you download music frequently, use Internet-based programs or stream movies, you will quickly notice the difference between fiber and cable or DSL Internet. Another big advantage is that fiber Internet is very reliable. The system's network neither generates nor transports electricity, which means your fiber Internet connection is less likely to be interrupted during a power outage. As an added bonus, this also reduces the risk of electrical or fire damage. Finally, fiber Internet is private. A dedicated network is installed in your home, so there is no need to share the Internet with neighbors. This makes your Internet connection a little more secure against delays in network traffic. Which companies offer fiber internet? There are more than two dozen fiber Internet providers, from popular AT&T to local companies like Cincinnati Bell. Google Fiber is one of the most recent suppliers on the market and is working to expand its network beyond the three locations in which it currently operates. Is fiber optic Internet available in my area? In order for the Internet to work with fiber, the ISP must create a network infrastructure in each geographic area it tries to serve. That is why fiber Internet is not available across the country and is particularly scarce in rural areas. For comparison, 89% of the United States has access to cable Internet service providers, while only 25% can use fiber Internet. However, the availability of fiber optic Internet is rapidly expanding in multiple markets. The best way to find out if fiber optic Internet is available in your area is to check with individual Internet providers. Many providers make it easy to check availability by looking for your zip code. What equipment do I need for fiber Internet? Fiber to the Home (FTTH) services - where fiber cables pass from the provider to your home, instead of ending up in a remote hub - do not require a separate modem.

Instead, they use a terminal to convert pulses of light into electrical signals that your computer can recognize. A router may be required to provide a wireless access point for connecting to the Internet. Some providers offer routers with their fiber bundles, but if you want to buy yours, you need to ensure that it can handle the speeds at which you subscribe. As a general rule, your fiber Internet provider will be able to provide some of this basic connection hardware, although you want to confirm in advance whether there will be any associated costs. Do I need to switch to the fiber Internet? The fiber-optic Internet saves hours lost when downloading large files, uploading Internet-based programs, or streaming video or music. And with increased competition in the industry, prices are becoming more reasonable. If you want a reliable Internet connection that offers the highest speeds available, fiber Internet is the best option. Start looking for local fiber cable installer / suppliers to make the switch.