Your easy guide to internet types:
fiber, satellite, 5G, and more!
Internet is no longer a luxury, it is essential for work, education, and staying connected. With more internet options and ways to connect, making a decision can be overwhelming. Who has time to keep up with learning every difference in new technology anyways?
Understanding how fiber-optic, cable, DSL, satellite, and other types of internet connections work can help you make an informed decision about the best internet service for your needs. Five different types are popular in the United States, and all come with unique considerations for what is best for you.
Fiber-optic internet
If fiber is available in your area, it’s the best choice for speed and reliability. Fiber-optic internet uses light signals to transmit data through ultra-thin glass strands, which travels faster than electric signals. This allows for symmetrical upload and download speeds, meaning you can, for example, upload photos to social media at the same speed as you can download updates for apps on your phone.
Fiber is best for all sorts of uses, including video calls, online gaming, and uploading or downloading all your important documents and files. You can also be secure in the reliability of fiber since it is buried underground, does not conduct electricity, and is resistant to weather conditions. In addition, fiber-optic technology offers enough speed options to connect multiple devices at once, so you do not have to wait to watch a movie while your kids are busy playing video games upstairs.
Since fiber-optic technology is positioned well for the future, upgrades will be easier to install and will require little, if any, construction. Golden West is committed to upgrading the reminder of its service territory to the fiber-optic network soon.
Coaxial cable internet
Coaxial cables are one of the most widely available broadband options, and the second-best option for internet. A coax cable connection delivers fast download speeds using the same cables as cable TV. This makes it a good choice for households with multiple users streaming, browsing, and working online. However, cable upload speeds can be lower than fiber, which can impact video conferencing and large file uploads.
Additionally, cable networks are shared among multiple users in a neighborhood, meaning speeds may vary in reliability during high usage times. Despite this, cable is still a popular and reliable choice for many households.
DSL internet
Direct Service Line (DSL) internet uses traditional copper telephone lines to deliver service. DSL internet is widely available and often affordable, but it is also one of the oldest internet technologies still in use today. You may recognize what DSL cables look like, with a square shaped end that plugs into the proper wall outlet.
Because DSL relies on older phone lines, speeds can vary depending on how far you live from the provider’s equipment. The farther away, the slower your service may be. DSL can handle basic tasks like email, web browsing, and social media, but it may struggle with video streaming, online gaming, or connecting multiple devices at once.
Satellite internet
For folks living in areas with few other options, satellite internet can be an alternative to local providers. This service beams a signal from satellites orbiting the Earth to a dish mounted at your home. While satellite service makes internet access possible in hard-to-reach places, it comes with a few trade-offs.
Satellite internet typically has slower speeds and higher latency, which is the delay you may notice when video chatting, gaming, or loading websites. Some satellite internet providers also limit how much data you can use each month and require self-installation. Weather can impact service as well, meaning a rainy day might decrease the effectiveness of a connection.
In addition, satellite internet service is often more expensive and without local service and support. It may also require an expensive, up-front purchase of equipment along with self-installation, which can be both inconvenient and challenging.
Fixed wireless and 5G home internet
Fixed wireless internet delivers service using radio signals from towers in your area. 5G home internet works much the same way, using cell towers to provide a connection. These services can be a good option if fiber or cable are not available, but speeds and reliability may depend on how close you are to a tower and the amount of traffic on the network.
Both services are growing in popularity for people that do not have access to other options. However, for those with other fixed options, such as service delivered over fiber-optic or coax cables, wireless may not be the right choice since network quality may vary based on location.
Making the right choice
Some internet choices are faster, some are more affordable, and some may be the only option. However, fiber-optic internet has become the best choice for today and the future, due to its efficiency compared to other ways of connecting.
Each of the five different options should be researched before making a choice on what is the best fit, since everyone uses their internet in different ways. Make sure your needs are met and that you can connect to what matters most from each option available to you. For more information on choosing an internet provider, read about it here.
Sources: CNET
