Internet connectivity via fiber-optic networks has established itself as the gold standard for enterprises seeking rapid, high-quality data transmission.
While fiber-optic Internet is still relatively new in comparison to other connectivity alternatives, it has a number of significant advantages.
Fiber optics carry data by light rather than electricity, enabling vastly quicker Internet connections capable of handling higher bandwidth. The FCC reports that fiber providers regularly deliver 117 percent of claimed speeds, even during peak demand periods.
So how does it compare to the legacy copper or cable coax circuits that are still available?
In a nutshell, fiber-optic Internet vs. cable:
Fiber is faster than copper, more secure than copper, more reliable and durable than copper, easier to scale than copper, and more cost-effective in the long term than copper.
While the majority of company decision-makers are aware of fiber’s speed advantages, other perks are less well-known. Spending on newer technology might feel dangerous, particularly for businesses that rely significantly on Internet access for customer communications, productivity, and collaboration.
In this post, we’ll discuss how fibre optic Internet compares to regular copper connections in a variety of areas, including bandwidth capacity, speed, and reliability.
1. Bandwidth
Investing in fiber optic Internet allows you to considerably expand your bandwidth capacity.
Copper wire infrastructure and TDM technology are intrinsically limited in their capabilities.
Due to the fact that it was initially created for the sole purpose of delivering voice calls, the need for bandwidth was not large.
For example, T-1 has a maximum throughput of 1.5 Mbps.
Additionally, due to the nature of electrical signaling, many forms of connections over cable are distance-limited.
Typically, Ethernet over Copper (EoC) is not available for circuits longer than 15,000 feet.
If your firm is considering migrating to Voice-over-IP (VoIP), having your bandwidth delivered through fibre can be a game-changer.
2. Transfer/Download Speed
Is there a perceptible difference in speed between fiber optic and cable Internet?
Absolutely.
Numerous Atlantech Online clients who connect to our network by fiber can transmit data at a rate of 1 gigabit per second. This is many times faster than the federal government’s definition of broadband service, which as of January 2019 is 25 Mbps upload and 3 Mbps download.
According to the technology site NorthWest, downloads that often take 22 minutes via copper cable can take as little as 8 seconds over fiber. With this breakthrough in technology, the concept of “waiting for things to load” is on the verge of extinction.
Almost all ISPs are now switching to fiber optic cables to help boost internet speeds and download bandwidth. This is good news for individuals that download a lot of content from torrenting platforms. To check out the latest and best platform for downloading educational and entertainment content online, please visit proxybay.github.io.
3. Distinction
For copper Internet networks, the signal weakens as it travels from the central office (CO).
Initially, fibre was employed for long-haul networks.
Cell phone towers in faraway regions are connected to the network via fibre optic cable.
Certain types of fibre connections, according to Blackbox Technology, can transport data for nearly 25 kilometres.
While most business expansions will not necessitate equally substantial fibre connections, your signal will not degrade within the metro fibre rings that service your firm.
4. Safety
In an era when cybersecurity is receiving growing attention, fibre optic is marketed as a cost-effective approach to instantly boost your Internet security.
Copper cable interception can be accomplished by connecting taps to a line to take up electronic signals.
Putting a tap on a fiber optic Internet cable to intercept data transmissions, however, is incredibly difficult.
Additionally, it is simple to recognise corrupted wires because they generate visible light during communications.
With distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) assaults on the rise, it is more critical than ever to beef up your network’s security.
Related: Difference Between MB and MB (Megabit and Megabyte)
5. Dependability
When an enterprise is depending on copper cable-based Internet, there are numerous variables that can cause disruptions. Temperature swings, harsh weather, and wetness can all result in a loss of connectivity.
Due to the fact that copper wire transmits an electric current, it can even pose a fire threat.
Additional concerns about cable reliability include the possibility of interference from electronic or radio transmissions. Additionally, telephone company staff gain access to copper cables within the structure, and they occasionally make errors and tamper with the incorrect lines.
Additionally, all copper wires return to the telephone company’s Central Office, where disconnections might occur.
Fiber is often unrelated to the telephone company, its equipment, or its termination points.
6. Cable Dimensions
The speed of Internet transmission over copper cable is directly proportional to the cable’s weight.
To attain better speeds, a business must utilise more cable, which demands additional space in the telecoms room. Fiber’s speed is not proportional to its size, and it is far lighter than copper.
This makes it more convenient to use and less taxing on the limited space available in small areas.
7. Price
Investing in fibre Internet is initially more expensive than copper, but costs are rapidly declining as this choice becomes more prevalent.
Ultimately, the total cost of ownership (TCO) of fibre is lower during its lifespan.
It is more robust, requires less maintenance, and requires less hardware.
Because of the benefits of fibre optic Internet, it is a more cost-effective investment for businesses of all sizes.
