Since virtual connections are crucial for people who work remotely or families whose children learn online, reliable internet service is essential. This is where fiber optic internet comes in, providing the fastest and most dependable speeds of any type of internet connection on the market today. Below, learn more about this popular type of internet service with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject.

Answers to Questions About Fiber Optic Internet

How do fiber optics work?

Fiber optic internet cables are glass or plastic tubes, and they transmit data across vast distances via pulses of light. The insides of the cables function as a sort of mirror, bouncing the light and the data it contains at warp-speed across the many miles to the destination. When you click on a link or type something into a website, the cables pick up that data, translate it into light pulses, and send it through the tubes.

How does it differ from DSL?

Digital subscriber lines, or DSL, use copper wires to transmit data. These wires are not as effective at delivering information to locations beyond that of your local internet service provider, resulting in slower speeds and higher attenuation. Attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength, and higher attenuation rates mean a weaker overall signal between your connection and the rest of the world.

What are the advantages of fiber optic internet?

Your internet service will be lightning-fast with fiber optic. Not only does this mean you can send data at the highest rate of speed available, but you can also receive and download data with equal velocity.

Fiber optic maintains its speed no matter the weather (a problem for satellite internet users), your location (an issue for DSL users), or the number of people in your neighborhood who are currently using the internet (a major roadblock for cable internet users). Fiber optic is also the best solution for efficiently carrying information over long distances.

Are there different kinds of fiber optic internet?

Yes. Fiber optic to the home or premises connects straight to your home. Fiber optic to the curb connects to the closest utility pole or box and links to your home via coaxial cables. Fiber optic to the neighborhood connects a small, one-mile area to one fiber optic node, linked to individual homes with the help of DSL connections.

When you're ready to experience fiber optic internet service, contact New Hope Telephone Co-Op. Since 1951, they have been providing residents with a variety of telecommunications solutions. From fiber optic internet and telephone service to cable TV packages and security monitoring systems, they have the tools to keep you connected. Call (256) 723-4211 or visit them online to learn more about their offerings.