Technology

Fiber Vs. Satellite: Which Internet Connection Is Better?

Since the internet is a part of our daily lives, it is safe to say that it is now a basic need than a mere perk. According to Statista, almost 64.4 percent of the global population uses the internet. This is the reason that a steady and speedy connection is the need of every household. A fast internet connection not only speeds up your work but also improves the quality of gaming and streaming. Therefore, it is significant for you to choose the right type of internet connection so you can complete all your work effortlessly.

There are different types of internet connection, such as DSL, satellite, fiber optic, cable, and so on. And every connection is different from the other in several ways. So, finding the right type of internet connection can be quite confusing.

If you cannot decide which internet connection to opt for, then we are here to explain the differences between a fiber and satellite internet connection. As these two connections are quite popular and hold an edge over DSL or cable connections. Thus, it will be easier for you to decide which option is better for you. In this blog, we will explore the following:

  • What is satellite and fiber optic technology?
  • The advantages and disadvantages of satellite and fiber optic connection
  • Our final verdict

So, let’s get started!

Fiber Optic Technology Explained

Over the last few years, the term fiber optic has been a popular buzzword in the broadband market, and you must have definitely heard about it when shopping for the internet. This type of internet is delivered via fiber-optic cables, which are made up of several fiber strands that can send information in the form of light. Moreover, the cables are made up of thin strands of glass, that can withstand a pressure of approximately 200 pounds. So, fiber-optic technology is not susceptible to severe weather conditions. Even power outages tend to have zero to no effect on this type of internet connection. Due to all these benefits, internet connectivity over this type of network has become the standard for high-quality and fast data transmission for businesses as well.

Advantages of Using Fiber Optic Technology

Below, we have listed some of the incredible benefits of using fiber optic technology.

High-Speed Internet

Fiber optic is a broadband connection that can reach up to 1000 Mbps speeds. It is significantly faster than another type of connection, as advanced technology is used that sends data at the speed of light. You can easily stream videos in HD quality, connect multiple devices, play games, and do so much more. Therefore, due to its increasing demand and ability to offer blazing-fast internet speed, the fiber optic market is projected to reach $8.2 billion by 2027

Symmetrical Speeds

Symmetrical internet speeds mean similar download and upload speeds. For example, if your download speed is 100 Mbps, then your upload speed is also 100 Mbps. However, not all broadband connections can offer symmetrical internet speeds, which can frustrate internet users. But unlike other types of internet connections, fiber internet offers symmetrical internet speeds, so users can enjoy using the same fast speed to upload or download data. In addition, with symmetrical upload and download speed, you stay more focused because your browser is less likely to get sluggish.

Reliability

The fiber optic technology is entirely grounded, so this protects the network from common weather interruptions. It can withstand harsh weather environments without any changes in performance. Since it is less prone to downtime, it provides consistent speeds, so you can use the internet efficiently. Simply put, as long as the fiber optic cables are fully intact, they can keep delivering internet connection even during rough weather conditions.

Lower Latency

Fiber optic technology has lower latency as compared to other types of broadband connections. Since fiber optic cables are thinner and lighter, they can transfer data at higher speeds, so they have lower latency levels. It is indeed an incredible choice for high-bandwidth households where several users want to stream videos, play games, and download or upload large files, at the same time.

Secure Internet Connection

Today, internet security is of utmost importance because hackers can easily hack vulnerable networks and cause financial damage by stealing sensitive data. Therefore, it is significant for you to choose a secure connection so hackers cannot easily penetrate your networks. Since fiber technology does not radiate signals, hackers cannot easily tap into fiber cables to intercept data. This makes it difficult for hackers to hack your internet connection.

Disadvantages of Fiber Optic Technology

A few disadvantages of using fiber optic technology are listed below.

Fragility

Since the technology is made of glass, the cables are more fragile than copper cables, and if you bend them too much, they will break. That’s why your internet service provider would send a team of professionals to deploy your internet connection.

Expensive to Install

Even though their cost is lower, they are still quite expensive to install. One has to call the specialists to install it and check it’s working. Thus, the costs can be more than you expect, and you need to check your budget before deploying this technology.

Which Fiber Internet Provider to Go For?

If you are looking for an internet service provider that offers quality fiber optic connection, then you can subscribe to Kinetic internet services by Windstream.

Windstream Holdings Inc. is commonly referred to as Windstream Communications, it offers kinetic fiber-optic internet connection across 18 states of America. Its service stands out among others because of the provider’s focus on bringing the cutting-edge fiber-backed network to every state it serves. It offers internet speeds up to one gig and offers a great deal of bandwidth to households to connect several devices. Therefore, no matter how many people are using the internet at the same time, the provider ensures that everyone can enjoy a fast-speed connection.

Thus, with a steady and reliable connection offered by Windstream, you can enjoy a seamless internet browsing experience and stream videos without any hassle. In addition, it offers unlimited data plans with no contract requirements, so you can use the internet easily without worrying about running out of data.

Windstream has carefully designed its plans and packages to meet the internet needs of the users, and all the plans come without any data caps. You can visit its website for more information regarding the different speed tiers offered by the provider.

Satellite Internet: All You Need to Know

Satellite internet is another popular type of connection in which three types of satellite dishes are used to provide a high-speed internet connection to the subscribers.  The three satellite dishes, one installed on your roof, the second orbits the earth, and the third situated at the provider’s hub, work to send data back and forth wirelessly. Therefore, due to the complexity of its network infrastructure, the satellite connection is more susceptible to weather conditions and can affect your internet activities at large.

However, this connection is better than DSL and is a good option for those living in rural areas, who do not have access to other high-speed internet options. Its speed range is around 10-300 Mbps, so your users can stream or play games with ease.

Benefits of Using Satellite Internet Connection

A few benefits of using a satellite internet connection are as follows.

Global Coverage

This is one of the major reasons for using satellite connections because it can give global coverage. So, you will never be without an internet connection if you live in a remote area. It is indeed a blessing for those living in regions where they do not have access to other types of internet connection. In addition, your business operations will never suffer if you are planning to move to some far-flung mountainous area because a satellite connection meets you where you are.

Reliability

A satellite internet connection is more reliable than a cable connection because there are fewer chances of network outages. The networks are dependable and can provide constant connectivity as long as the equipment is powered.

Cost Effective

Gone are the days when satellite internet was costly because today, several ISPs are investing in low-orbit satellites to offer affordable internet services to houses across the US. So, if you do not want to spend hundreds of dollars, then you can choose a satellite internet connection. Its deployment is much cheaper than other wired connections.

Quick Installation

Satellite internet can be installed and configured within a few hours. Therefore, you do not have to wait all day to use the internet.

Disadvantages of Satellite Internet Connection

A few benefits of satellite internet connection are as follows:

Latency Issues

Satellite technology has high latency because of the distance between the satellites and the surface of the Earth. Its latency is around 594-624 ms, which is greater compared to other broadband connections. The mere reason is that in this technology, the data is sent to space, then to your ISP, and back again, which results in higher latency issues.

Susceptible to Weather Issues

Rough weather affects the signal path of the satellite internet connection, resulting in connectivity problems. For instance, during rain or stormy weather, the dishes can get damaged which results in internet outages.

Data Caps

This is another major disadvantage of using a satellite internet connection. Since the speed range of satellite internet connection is around 25-300 Mbps therefore, your internet provider is likely to impose data caps. Therefore, if you reach your monthly data cap, you cannot use the internet properly until your next billing cycle starts.

Obstructions Affect the Signals

Since the satellite dish is on the rooftop, it needs to be checked for obstructions in the path. For instance, leaves or bushes around the dish may temporarily obstruct the signals. So, remove the debris or any other obstacle that can damage your cable or dish otherwise, you will suffer from a sluggish internet connection.

Fiber Vs. Satellite: Who is the Winner?

As mentioned above, the best thing about using a satellite internet connection is that it is widely available all across the United States of America. This is the major reason that it is quite popular in rural areas where other types of internet connections are unavailable. Despite its strongest selling point, satellite internet connection also has many disadvantages. Its disadvantages outweigh its benefits, making fiber optic internet connection a clear winner.

Despite the fact that fiber optic connection is not widely available, the surge in demand for high-speed internet connection is expected to drive the growth of the fiber optic market. Therefore, it will be widely available in more States.

Simply put, considering the benefits of a fiber optic internet connection, it is far better than a satellite internet connection.

All in All…

Satellite and fiber optic connections are quite popular types of internet connection. But the advantages of fiber optic connectors are significantly greater, and it can be said that fiber optic is here to stay. So, if you cannot decide which internet connection to opt for, we suggest you choose a fiber optic connection.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button