Fiber internet has multiple advantages over the competition. It is generally faster and more reliable, and it provides a higher data integrity compared to cable or wireless options. Installation can cause some confusion. Our team at Equal Optics is here to provide answers to “How is fiber optic internet installed?”
How Is Fiber Optic Internet Installed?
Fiber optic internet requires special equipment and cabling. Internet providers generally handle the installation of main lines and connections to your facilities. However, your IT team is usually responsible for connections inside the building and within your server.
Select an Internet Provider
The first step in any installation process is to select a service provider. This is often limited by who has fiber optic infrastructure in place in your area. There is commonly at least one fiber internet provider in areas with technology companies and data centers. If more than one provider is available, consider factors such as network speed, reliability, and service options when making a decision.
Connect to the Fiber Network
Your selected internet service provider will install fiber optic cables to your building. Data centers use redundant connections provided by the ISP. Your ISP will use various techniques to ensure fast reliable data transfer between your equipment and its fiber infrastructure., including:
- Dedicated fiber optic links
- Load balancing
- Multiple connections
Combined, these approaches reduce disruptions and improve network resilience. With them, you should experience reliable connectivity for all of your network functions.
Purchase and Install Fiber-Capable Equipment
To work most efficiently, any equipment and peripherals hooked to fiber optic internet must be compatible. You will need to use compatible optical transceivers, routers, and switches to accomplish this.
Cabling is a major part of maximizing the benefits of fiber internet. Careful planning to identify the most efficient cable pathways can help reduce clutter, interference, and costs of installation. Several types of cables are available for your fiber optic connections. The most common include:
- Active optic cables: AOCs are fiber optic cables with dedicated transceiver modules attached on either end. They can provide several types of connections between peripherals and are usually used to cover distances up to 30 meters.
- Multi-mode fiber: MM fiber cables transmit data over multiple glass strands. They offer an affordable option but may have lower bandwidth capabilities. Common designations include OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5.
- Single-mode fiber: SM fiber cables transmit data over a single strand of glass fiber. They can support high bandwidths over long distances. Common examples of SM fiber cables include SM1 and SM2.
At Equal Optics, we carry a wide selection of SM, MM, and AOC cabling to meet various server and data center needs. Our components are compatible with most major tech manufacturers, including Cisco, Intel, Lenovo, and Siemon.
Test Your Connection
The final step for how fiber optic internet is installed is to test the connection. A robust series of tests ensures your physical connections are secure, the equipment you chose is sufficient for your application, and the network is stable.
Ready to Learn More About How Fiber Optic Internet Is Installed?
Many people ask “How is fiber optic internet installed?” Understanding the process is the first step to ensuring that your network has the equipment and supplies necessary to make the most of fiber’s many advantages. Equal Optics provides first-class support and state-of-the-art network solutions. Contact us to learn more.
