Current and emerging technologies are requiring faster Internet connections that help users to run multimedia applications, VoIP, and other applications that cannot function properly without a high speed Internet connection. As a result, there are many different types of Internet connections that have evolved since the initial dial-up access including fiber optic and cable Internet access.
If you are trying to decide which Internet connection is best in terms of the applications you use, you may be wondering what the difference is between fiber optic and cable Internet connectivity. The following information will provide you with an overview of each type so you can compare and contrast to gain a better understanding of these two different types of connectivity.
Fiber Optic Internet: What is it and How Does It Work?
Although fiber optic functions through the use of a cable, the contents inside the cable are what differentiate it from cable Internet. Fiber optics consists of glass which is the reason they are also referred to as optical cables. Fiber optic cables operate by dispersing pulses of light through the glass cables which are encased in weather resistant material to protect the delicate components inside the cable.
Depending upon the type of glass that is used during cable construction the speed of the connection may fluctuate but still produces a fairly fast connection speed. The typical speed for a fiber optic Internet connection will range between 15 Mbps (megabits per second) and 50 Mbps. In comparison with cable Internet which typically provides data transfer speeds at anywhere from 5Mbps ranging to 20 Mbps fiber optic Internet is definitely the faster of the two connections.
Depending upon the area in which you live fiber optic availability may vary along with the cost. As you search for a fiber optic Internet connection keep in mind that Internet Service Providers always advertise on the high end of the actual Internet speed you will receive when you connect to the Internet. The actual speed has many variables that come into play such as your distance from the main transfer station, the number of other users who are sharing the connection with you, and the time of day you typically connect to the Internet.
Some of the primary providers of fiber optic Internet include Verizon, Comcast, and AT&T and if you have your choice of providers then you can comparison shop for the best deal. By shopping around you will also discover what your options are for availability and connectivity in your area.
Cable Internet Defined and How It Works
Cable Internet also provides a high speed Internet connection except at a typically slower rate than fiber optic. Instead of delivering connectivity through pulses of light the Internet connection is established through a coaxial cable that your television service typically operates from however, the Internet service does not interfere with your television service and vice versa.
Similar to a fiber optic connection the speed will vary depending upon the number of people that are sharing the bandwidth with you and the time of day you typically use the Internet. The typical speed of a cable Internet connection can be anywhere from5Mbps ranging to 20Mbps which is slower than fiber optic running at 15Mbps to 50Mbps. Regardless, a cable Internet connection provides broadband speed Internet and allows you to run current applications without experiencing any glitches.
Cable Internet connectivity and availability will vary according to the area where you live. For example, if you live in a rural area where there is no cable television service, chances are cable Internet is not available either. If you do live in an area that offers cable Internet it is worth the investment of your time to comparison shop with multiple providers if possible to ensure you are getting the best deal.
If you require the fastest Internet speed possible you should also inquire about the distance you are from the transfer station and how many people will be sharing the connection with you. The cable provider may also limit the bandwidth you can use depending upon how many of their customers share the connection in your neighborhood.
Some of the major providers that offer cable Internet include Time Warner Cable, Comcast, and Cox Communications. These companies often provide the necessary equipment that you need such as a cable modem and software to establish high speed Internet connectivity.
Fiber Optic and Cable Similarities
Despite the difference in the speed of the connection fiber optic and cable Internet also have similar features. Both connections are “always on” meaning you do not have to log on with a password and instead you simply open your browser to establish connectivity. Fiber optic and cable Internet are both offered at a flat monthly fee that will vary according to your location. Both services allow you to take advantage of VoIP telephony as a cost effective telephone option delivered over the Internet.
You can easily find out if what types of options you have when it comes to fiber optic and cable Internet connectivity by logging onto sites online that provide you with availability and a free quote for the service. Websites such as America Connects.net provide a feature that allows you to choose the services you are searching for and when you enter your general location they will provide you with information on access and availability and provide you with a free price quote.
Related posts:
