Many people have choices when it comes to their home or office internet service. When comparing fiber optic internet vs cable, you will notice many similarities between the two. For example, they are generally considered superior to DSL and wireless networks. However, there are differences between them that you should understand before choosing one type of service over the other.
Choosing Between Fiber Optic Internet vs Cable Internet
When comparing fiber optic internet vs cable internet, you must consider that both offer fast download and upload speeds that can meet most home and small office needs. To make an informed decision about which type of internet service you need, you should understand the basics of each one. You should also take time to fully assess your needs, so the service you choose can meet them.
Fiber Optic Internet Basics
Fiber optic internet is generally considered the most advanced internet technology. It uses special glass fiber cables called fiber optics. Bundles of individual fiber optics transmit data using light signals.
Fiber is well suited for high-speed data transfer and can cover long distances. It is highly resistant to interference and data degradation, making it an excellent tool for transmitting important data.
Cable Internet Basics
Cable internet transmits through coaxial cables. These use insulated copper wire, which may be solid or stranded. They can accommodate relatively high speeds, but network interference and signal degradation may occur over longer distances.
Coaxial cable is a relatively affordable material for running home and business internet. It is also commonly available, something that cannot be said for fiber optic cables. Many homes and office buildings have easy access to cable through existing infrastructure, which also means that there is likely a lower initial investment for installation.
Understanding Key Differences Between Fiber Optic Internet vs Cable
While both cable fiber and cable offer high-speed internet, some critical differences might make one preferable over the other for your needs. Once you determine how important each of these factors is to your operations, you can make an informed decision about fiber optic vs cable internet.
Transmission Speed
When it comes to transmission speed, fiber optic internet is the clear winner in this comparison. Download and upload speeds of 200 Mbps to 20 Gbps put even a slow service above many cable connections.
Researchers recently broke the world record for data transmission using modified fiber optics. They transmitted data at a staggering 402 terabits per second, which topped the previous record of 301 Tbps set only months earlier. Most users, even those in medical or research facilities, do not need this level of speed. However, it does show one of the major advantages of fiber optic internet vs cable internet.
Cable internet is still incredibly fast. It offers download speeds between 10 Mbps and 1 Gbps with upload speeds of 5 to 50 Mbps.
There are a couple of points worth noting about the internet speed debate. First, most individuals and many businesses do not need speeds faster than those that cable internet can provide under ideal circumstances. Unless you are transmitting massive amounts of critical data, the cable’s download range of 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps is likely sufficient.
Additionally, transmission speeds are limited by other network equipment. If your system components are not set up to handle the massive speeds of fiber optic internet, you might consider sticking with cable. However, if you are building a new network or require the other features of fiber, then it could be a worthwhile investment.
Reliability and Quality
Comparing fiber vs cable internet, fiber comes out on top in terms of reliability. It offers consistent, reliable performance with minimal interference. There is also very little loss of quality even over very long distances.
Accessibility
A major factor when choosing between fiber optic internet vs cable is which service is available in your area. This is not a major concern in most large metropolitan cities, but it does come into play in smaller cities and rural towns.
Fiber optic cabling is a much newer technology compared to cable. As a result, it is not installed in many locations. Many municipalities and advocacy groups are pushing for its expansion into wider geographic regions.
According to recent data from BroadbandNow Research, Rhode Island leads the way with more than 97% of the state having access to fiber internet. Several other states, including Oregon and New York, have over 50% coverage. Areas with large regions of population density and major tech centers have some of the best access. At the opposite end of the accessibility scale, less than 2% of Alaska, Maine, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia have access to the technology.
Cost
Cable uses traditional copper wiring and fiber uses fiber optic cabling. As a result, cable is the more affordable option. It is largely compatible with common equipment, which can further reduce upfront costs.
On the other hand, fiber optics require a larger upfront investment. In addition to the cabling for your network, you may need to purchase compatible servers, connections, and other equipment to maximize the benefits of fiber internet. The service itself may also cost more through your provider.
Upfront costs are only part of the picture, however. You should also consider the cost of downtime and lost productivity from service interruptions. These are more likely with cable than with fiber.
There are also potential costs for future upgrades. These are more likely with cable internet since fiber internet is widely considered the more futureproof technology. Keep in mind that this does not mean you will never need to upgrade fiber networks. Newer technology is leaning toward thinner, more durable cabling.
Explore Your Options: Fiber Optic Internet vs Cable Internet
Learning what separates fiber optic internet vs cable is an important first step to building a comprehensive network that meets your IT needs. Whether you opt for fiber or cable internet, you need the correct cabling, servers, and equipment to keep your network running smoothly. Equal optics uses Tier One components to ensure reliability. We back our products with a lifetime warranty. Contact us to learn more.
