Why Fiber vs. Cable Networks

Why fiber?

The demand for data and bandwidth continues to accelerate. As traditional cable and metallic networks reach the limits of their capabilities, more Internet providers are moving to upgrade their equipment to meet demands for faster speeds. Fortunately, altafiber has invested over $1 Billion to make Greater Cincinnati one of the most fiber-dense regions in the nation, and we're continuing to invest to bring more fiber to more people. Faster speeds aren't the only thing that cement fiber Internet's place as the network of the future. Learn more about the superior performance of fiber, how the technology works, and how it impacts the way you use the Internet today and in the future.

What's the difference between fiber and cable networks?

Learn about the differences between the different network types, and what that means for you. A fiber Internet connection allows for:

Faster download speeds and upload speeds - get information to and from the Internet more quickly, with less buffering.
More bandwidth - fiber optic cables are able to carry exponentially more bandwidth than traditional metallic lines.
More reliable connection - fiber is built with thin strands of glass, are able to carry information longer distances and are immune to interference from other signals.

The facts about fiber

Travel at the speed of light

Data is sent as light signals through glass fiber-optic cables which are thinner than a human hair.

Faster upload/download speeds

Fiber is able to offer faster upload and download speeds and is transmitted on a dedicated line. This allows for more consistent and reliable speeds than cable.

Durable and resistant

Fiber is less likely to go down during a power outage and is resistant to signal interference such as electric lines.

Better for the planet

Fiber-optic cables use much less energy to transmit data than metal cables do.

Understanding more about fiber network technology

Head of Network Ron Beerman and Design Engineer Kevin Newbold explain more about fiber network technology.

Fiber vs. Cable Networks

Head of Network Operations Ron Beerman explains the different Internet network types, and the unlimited potential of fiber.

Speeds over WiFi: Myths & FAQs

Design Engineer Kevin Newbold answers common questions about Wi-Fi connections.

Upload and Download Speeds

Head of Network Operations Ron Beerman talks about the importance of upload and download speeds for different application of Internet users today.

What is fiber Internet?

Head of Network Operations Ron Beerman explains fiber technology, its advantages and future-proof capabilities.

Blog: Why you need to start paying attention to your upload speed

Your Internet's upload speed determines how fast you can send content to the Internet. An increase in activities such as video conferencing, sending content, and live streaming have made upload speeds even more important.

Blog: Fiber is the future and the future is now

Communications networks across the country have been put to the test as tens of millions of people have transitioned to working and learning from home. Read about the advantages of having fiber Internet at work and home, and why the necessity for these higher speeds is here to stay.

Blog: Fiber Internet can increase your home value by 3%

Okay...so...what is fiber internet, and why should you care as a current homeowner or homeowner-to-be? Read this blog to learn what fiber technology is as it relates to copper cables and the potential benefits of fiber internet on both the individual and community level for homeowners.

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