Benefits of Fiber Optic Networks: Learn What It Is and Why It Matters

As streaming, remote work, and online education tools grow, so too does the need for reliable, fast internet service, with limited download and upload limits.

What is a fiber optic network?

Before you spend time learning about the many benefits of fiber optic internet, take a moment to understand what it is and how it works.

Fiber optic networks are also called fiber optic internet. Data is transmitted through very fine cables made of glass or optical fibers. In contrast, cable or DSL (digital subscriber line) internet connections, send data over copper-based infrastructure, which is not as reliable as fiber optic cables. Fiber optic connections allow for a more consistent experience, even during peak hours of internet usage.

Benefits of Fiber Optic Networks

Fiber optic networks are the answer to these needs for increased speed and reliability. Here are the benefits we can experience when switching to fiber optic internet.

1. Speed

With fiber optic internet, you don’t have to worry about slow loading speeds during peak hours, like when you want to watch your favorite shows at night, and the connection can maintain fast speeds even when there are many devices on the internet connection.

2. Reliable

Speeds don’t slow down when multiple devices are using the connection at once, or when your neighbors are particularly active on the internet, so you can have a consistent experience at all times of the day and your connection will never be throttled due to usage.

3. High-quality experience

Whether you’re streaming your favorite entertainment or working to connect with your team around the world via video conferencing, you’ll have a high-quality connection. Some fiber optic internet providers offer the same download and upload speeds, so you can hold a virtual meeting in the den while your family is watching 4K video in the living room.

Gamers find that fiber connections provide a great experience so they don’t miss anything important, and they can also chat with other gamers during gameplay and know that they won’t be disconnected during a crucial period.

4. Ability to handle multiple devices

Today, home internet connections aren’t just used to handle smartphones, tablets, and computers. They also handle video doorbells, connected garage doors, home assistants, smart light switches, security devices, smart timers, and more. Even though these smart home devices rarely pull in large amounts of data, they still require connectivity to perform their daily activities.

The more devices you connect, the harder it is to connect to a traditional internet connection. But fiber optic networks can work even in homes with 25 or more connected devices.

5. Provide higher bandwidth options

Fiber generally allows for higher caps to support more simultaneous devices. There are no unlimited internet plans, so the right plan will need to be chosen based on the needs of your home or business. Businesses will need to consider how various activities may affect their needs. Some activities to consider include:

• Web Conferencing
• Streaming media, such as training or compliance videos
• File Sharing Platform
• Cloud Applications

If you frequently experience disconnections, unstable video quality, or slow file upload and download speeds when using file-sharing platforms, you know your network is not sufficient.

Is fiber optic network suitable for us?

Most businesses benefit from upgrading to fiber optic internet due to its speed and reliability. Households that use the internet heavily also find the switch worthwhile. Some of the things that households find fiber optic internet helpful include the following:

• Gamers
• Online educator or student
• Remote Workers
• Stream from multiple devices simultaneously
• Households with many members, such as extended families or families living with extended family or friends