Switching to Fiber Internet: What You Need to Know for a Smooth Transition

With millions of people staying at home to work and unwind, the need for a fast and reliable internet connection is more necessary than ever. And, for those in remote work environments, switching to fiber internet ensures a stable connection, essential for video conferencing and large file transfers. 

For those who own or rent a home and are looking to upgrade their internet service, nothing can beat the benefits of going fiber. Switching to fiber internet can significantly improve a home’s overall connectivity and internet performance. Additionally, switching to fiber internet can increase the property value of a home, as it is a desirable feature for tech-savvy homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through choosing a fiber internet service, the installation process, and answer some of the most asked questions regarding switching to fiber internet. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and seamlessly transition to a faster, more reliable internet experience with fiber.

Why Switch to Fiber Internet? 

Fiber internet, also known as fiber optic internet, uses light signals transmitted through thin strands of glass or plastic to deliver data at incredibly high speeds. This technology offers several compelling reasons to make the switch, and If you’re considering upgrading your current setup, switching to fiber internet is a decision that offers long-term benefits. 

• Faster Speeds: Fiber internet can provide speeds up to 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) or higher, significantly faster than most DSL or cable connections.
• Reliable Internet Connection: Unlike copper cables, fiber optic cables are less susceptible to weather conditions and electromagnetic interference, resulting in a more stable and reliable connection.
• Low Latency: Fiber internet reduces latency, which is the delay before a transfer of data begins. This is crucial for activities like online gaming, video conferencing, and streaming high-definition content. Many households have found that switching to fiber internet reduces buffering times and enhances streaming quality. 
• High Bandwidth: Fiber optic technology can handle a large amount of data simultaneously, making it ideal for households with multiple users and devices.

Benefits of Fiber Internet

Switching to fiber internet offers numerous benefits, making it a worthwhile investment for any household:

• Superior Speed and Performance: With download and upload speeds far surpassing traditional internet types, fiber internet ensures smooth streaming, faster downloads, and efficient online gaming.
• Enhanced Reliability: Fiber-optic cables are more durable and less prone to outages, ensuring a consistent and dependable connection.
• Future-Proof Technology: As internet demands increase, fiber’s high capacity makes it a future-proof option that is able to handle advancements in technology and increasing data requirements.
• Smart Home Compatibility: Fiber internet supports a wide range of smart home devices, from security systems to home automation gadgets, ensuring they operate efficiently without lag.

Switching to Fiber Internet

Switching to fiber internet involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth transition:

• Check Availability: First, determine if fiber internet is available in your area. You can do this by visiting internet service provider (ISP) websites or using online tools that check availability based on your address.
• Compare Providers: Research different ISPs that offer fiber internet in your region. Compare their plans, speeds, prices, and customer reviews to find the best option for your needs.
• Select a Plan: Choose a fiber internet plan that matches your household’s usage requirements. Consider factors like the number of users, types of activities (e.g., streaming, gaming), and desired speed.
• Schedule Installation: Once you’ve selected a plan, contact the ISP to schedule an installation. They will guide you through the process and provide any necessary equipment.
• Understand the Equipment Needed: Typically, switching to fiber internet requires an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) and a compatible router to handle the high speeds and bandwidth of fiber-optic technology. Sometimes ISPs may offer these as part of a sign-up promotion, while other times they may charge for this equipment. It’s always a good idea to ask before signing any contracts.

Fiber Internet Installation Process

The installation process for fiber internet is straightforward but may vary slightly depending on your location and ISP:

• Site Survey: Before installation, a technician may visit your home to conduct a site survey. This helps determine the best route for the fiber optic cables and identifies any potential issues.
• Install Fiber Optic Cables: The technician will install the fiber optic cables from the nearest distribution point to your home. This may involve digging a small trench or using existing underground conduits.
• Install Optical Network Terminal (ONT): Inside your home, the technician will install an Optical Network Terminal, a device that converts light signals into digital data that your devices can use.
• Connect Equipment: The ONT will be connected to your router or modem, which distributes the internet signal throughout your home. The technician will ensure everything is working correctly before completing the installation.

Comparing Fiber to Other Internet Types

Understanding how fiber internet compares to other types of internet connections can help you make an informed decision:

• Digital Subscriber Line (DSL): DSL uses copper telephone lines to deliver internet service. While widely available, DSL speeds are significantly slower than fiber, and performance can degrade over long distances.
• Cable: Cable internet uses coaxial cables and offers faster speeds than DSL, but it can suffer from congestion during peak usage times. Fiber provides more consistent speeds and better reliability.
• Satellite: Satellite internet is available in remote areas where other types of connections are not. However, it has higher latency and lower speeds compared to fiber.
• Wireless: Fixed wireless and mobile internet can be convenient but often lack the speed and stability of a fiber connection.

FAQ

How much faster is fiber than DSL or cable? How much is the fiber internet? Will I need a new router? How long will it take for them to come? Will fiber internet work for me? And does fiber internet actually boost my home WiFi? Let’s dive right in. 

How much faster is fiber than DSL or cable? 

Fiber internet has the potential to be up to 100 times faster than DSL and much faster than cable. Fiber connection speeds can be as high as 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) and even up to 10 Gbps. 

How much is the fiber internet? 

The initial build out cost might be high but in some cases the payoff can ultimately save you money because of the superior results and reliability compared with slower speeds. Speed, performance and reliability often make investing in it a no-brainer and ISPs often add competition to the pricing of fiber plans. 

Will I need to buy a new router? 

Possibly yes. You might find that your current router is not compatible with fiber internet speeds, so you’ll need a model that can deliver the ‘fiber goods.’ Most ISPs can recommend suitable models or the best case option would be for them to provide one for you when they connect the fiber. 

How long will it take for them to come? 

It’s rarely an overnight process but fiber connects in a few hours for a lot of people. But that can all depend on how your house is set up as well as the prep work that might be required. 

Is fiber only available in cities? 

Rural availability continues to expand but right now you’re more likely to find fiber internet options in urban and suburban areas. 

Will fiber internet boost my home WiFi performance? 

In short, yes. But you will still need a high-bandwidth, high-quality router that can support fiber performance to start delivering better WiFi to your home. Switching to fiber could transform your online experience. 

By learning more about the difference fiber internet can make and by following the installation steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be on your way to having the best possible home internet on offer.

Conclusion

Switching to fiber internet can transform your online experience, offering unmatched speed, reliability, and capacity. Whether you’re a gamer seeking low latency, a remote worker needing constant connectivity, or a family with multiple devices streaming simultaneously, fiber internet caters to all your needs. For those in remote work environments, switching to fiber internet ensures a stable connection, which is essential for video conferencing and large file transfers. 

By understanding the benefits and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make the transition smoothly and start enjoying the advantages of fiber optic technology. Moreover, upgrading to fiber not only enhances your current internet activities but also prepares your home for future technological advancements. With the increasing prevalence of smart home devices and the growing demand for high-definition content, having a robust and high-speed internet connection becomes crucial. Fiber internet’s high bandwidth ensures you can integrate these technologies seamlessly, providing a foundation for a more connected and efficient home.

If you’re looking to make the switch to fiber internet and want to know if it’s available in your area, contact the experts at 24-7 & West Wisconsin Telcom. We build fiber optic smart communities from the ground up.