Not All Internet Options are Created Equal
10:03AM March 19, 2021
One missed virtual meeting or one lagging video game is all it takes to realize that your current internet service may not be sufficient. Let’s explore the speed, reliability and bandwidth of the three major service delivery options - digital subscriber line (DSL), cable TV line (cable) and fiber-optic line (fiber) - to understand why fiber is the clear choice.
Speed
Fiber-optic broadband offers faster internet speeds over greater distances than its copper-based competitors, such as DSL and cable. Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) internet service from Chariton Valley boasts gigabit-level speed, which is several times faster than the maximum speed offered by DSL and cable. Comparatively, DSL speed maxes out at about 45 Mbps, while cable hits top speed at 300 Mbps. On the surface, fiber may seem to provide more speed than you need, but you may be surprised by how much speed is actually needed for better online experiences.
Reliability
Simply put, if reliability is important to you, choose fiber. DSL and cable experience significant slowdowns during extreme weather conditions, such as drastic temperature changes and flooding. Plus, the capacity and speed of both fluctuate during times of demand, which can leave you lagging when you have a pressing deadline or virtual meeting to attend. Keep in mind unplanned downtime negatively impacts productivity.
Usage
Don’t make the mistake of underestimating your household’s internet usage. The reality is that most people are now high-capacity users. Ask yourself the following questions to gain a better understanding of your household’s internet consumption.
- How many desktops, laptops, tablets, phones and gaming systems are competing for bandwidth in your home?
- How many people are regularly accessing the internet in your home?
- Do you or others in your household stream Netflix, Hulu or videos on YouTube?
- Do you or others in the household play video games or games on smartphones?
- Do you have a security system, video doorbell or other smart devices that require an internet connection to function?
- Do you use a home assistant device, such as Amazon Echo?
- Are you working from home?
- Are your children eLearning from home?
You should also consider how many devices may be added to your home network in the future. As you get more connected, a high-speed and reliable internet connection becomes increasingly important.
Ready to make the switch to fiber? Contact Chariton Valley today