Understanding the differences between fiber and cable internet connections can confuse many people. Both provide high-speed internet access and are widely available, but there are some key differences between the two. This article will explain the differences between fiber and cable internet connections and help you determine which is right.
What is Fiber Internet?
Fiber internet is a newer technology that is becoming more popular and is generally considered faster and more reliable than cable. Fiber internet connections use light to transmit data through fiber-optic cables and thin glass strands. This connection is extremely fast and can reach up to 1Gbps, or 1,000 Mbps. It is also more reliable than cable and has less interference from outside sources, such as weather or other electronic signals.
What is Cable Internet?
Cable internet, on the other hand, uses coaxial cables to transmit data. This type of connection is less reliable than fiber but can reach speeds up to 200 Mbps. Cable internet is also more susceptible to interference from outside sources, such as bad weather or electronic signals.
The Differences Between Fiber and Cable Internet
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Cost
When it comes to cost, fiber is generally more expensive than cable. Fiber connections require special equipment to set up and maintain, which can add to the cost. However, fiber connections are generally more reliable and faster, so the extra cost may be worth it for those who need a reliable and fast connection.
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Availability
Regarding availability, both fiber and cable internet connections are widely available. Fiber connections are generally available in densely populated areas, while cable connections are more widely available in rural areas.
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Speed
Fiber connections can deliver speeds up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbps), while cable connections typically max out at around 1 Gbps. This makes fiber the ideal choice for those who need a fast connection for activities such as streaming 4K video or gaming online with multiple players simultaneously.
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Reliability
Fiber and cable can both be reliable depending on your provider and location. Fiber tends to be more reliable due to its dedicated lines, and most providers offer service-level agreements (SLA) that guarantee certain performance levels. Copper-based networks can be affected by peak usage times or inclement weather conditions leading to slower speeds and potential outages.
Get Your Local Internet From a Trusted Company
Many local internet service providers now provide customers with reliable, cost-effective, high-speed internet access. These ISPs focus on providing better customer service, faster internet speeds, and more affordable prices than larger, nationwide ISPs.
Getting internet from a local service provider can be beneficial because they often have better customer service than larger internet providers. They take the time to get to know their customers and provide them with helpful, personalized service.
Final Thoughts
Fiber and cable internet both offer high-speed connections but have distinct differences. Fiber offers faster speeds and more reliable connections, while cable is more readily available and typically more affordable. The best choice will depend on location, budget, and speed requirements.
SST is dedicated to offering the highest quality services to those living in rural areas, including customer support, telephone services, and access to Fiber-to-the-Home technology. If you are looking for high-speed internet providers in Kansas, OK, we can help you!
