If you live in a highly populated area of the United States, you will probably have to choose between cable internet access and fiber optic internet access for your technologies, both current and upcoming. Whether you need to run a program, an application or VoIP or anything else, you will need a stable, fast and reliable broadband internet connection. So here are some facts and comparisons between the options you have.
Cable Internet
Many people have access to Spectrum’s high-speed internet connection, though it isn’t as fast as fiber optic connections. Spectrum internet prices at S9.com are very reasonable. Cable internet relies basically on the coaxial cable with which your cable TV receives its signals, not on pulses of light like fiber optics.
While cable speeds may be slower than that of fiber optics, they can still be used for streaming, gaming and surfing the internet. Generally, the speeds range from 5 Mbps to 25 Mbps but it can vary depending on how many people are making use of the connection and the time of day.
Cable is available in most places but cable internet isn’t necessarily available. Places like rural areas that don’t have cable TV most likely do not have cable internet. If you do have internet available and want to buy a cable internet package, ensure you shop around to get the best package. You can protect your family during this Covid-19 Pandemic by self-installing Spectrum Internet, and save yourself some money in the process.
Fiber Optic Internet
Fiber optic internet access is a relatively new way to receive internet access. The connection is carried through a cable that is made of fiber optic glass on the inside. The connection is made as this glass disperses pulses of light via the cable.
Fiber optic internet speeds can fluctuate as connection speeds are dependent on the type of glass within the cable. Speeds in the range of 150 Mbps and 500 Mbps are typical, so whether it fluctuates or not, it is still high considering that standard speeds are between 5 Mbps and 25 Mbps.
As great as this is, fiber optic internet is not available everywhere. Its availability and cost are dependent on your area of residence. Providers normally advertise the highest speeds but yours may be lower depending on how far you are from the central transfer station, the number of users connected and the time of day. This is something to note while trying to get fiber optic internet service.
Another advantage that fiber optic internet has over cable internet is that fiber optic cables are can deliver high-speed internet and allow for fast data transfers over long distances. It also does not have any kind of interference from power lines, other cables or lightning strikes because fiber optic cables do not conduct electricity.
Currently, only Google, Comcast, AT&T and Verizon provide fiber optic internet. Before deciding which provider to go with, ensure you research them all and select the one with the best deals for you.
Comparisons
Installation: The process for installing fiber optic internet is complex, requires a special cable and can be done by only professionals. Cable internet, on the other hand, is much simpler and can be installed by you. You most likely already have the coaxial cable in your home providing you with cable television signals. You only need to get a modem to connect.
Availability: Fiber optic internet is currently not available everywhere. While cable internet is also not available everywhere, it is widely used and more available than fiber optic internet. Providers of fiber optic internet are beginning to change that narrative as they are adding lines throughout the country.
Reliability: Fiber optic internet, like cable internet, is reliable and it eliminates the risk of interference that cable is subject to. Cable internet, on the other hand, is a safer option but risks being affected by disruptions and outages.
Connection Speeds: Standard cable internet speeds are between 5 Mbps and 25 Mbps while that of fiber optic internet is between 150 Mbps and 500 Mbps.
Similarities
Though they are different in several ways, they share some similarities which include the fact that they both have an “always-on” feature which means you don’t have to always log on with a password each time you want to make use of your internet. Also, you pay a flat monthly fee for each service and can add VoIP.
Conclusion
While we all want the fastest internet service possible, not every one of us lives in areas where everything is available. Fiber optic internet, like that provided by Google, is many times faster than cable, but isn’t available in as many areas of the country. If you find yourself in an environment without fiber optic internet, make the most of the available cable internet. While it may be slower, you can stream, game and carry out other internet activities with it.