Fiber-optic

infrastructureintermediate
connection typehigh-speedfuture-proof

A high-speed internet technology that uses thin glass or plastic fibers to transmit data using pulses of light.

Examples

Speed capabilities

Fiber can deliver speeds from 100 Mbps to 10 Gbps for residential users

Symmetric speeds

Unlike cable, fiber typically offers equal upload and download speeds

Typical Values

Entry-level fiber100-300 Mbps
Mid-tier fiber500-1000 Mbps
Premium fiber2-10 Gbps

Common Misconceptions

  • Fiber availability is limited - not available in all areas
  • Fiber installation may require professional setup and equipment

Optimization Tips

Ensure your router supports gigabit speeds

high impact

Use Cat 6 or better Ethernet cables

high impact

Update network adapters to support fiber speeds

high impact

User Impact

Future-proofing

Fiber infrastructure can handle increasing bandwidth demands

Reliability

Less susceptible to interference and weather than copper cables

Technical Details

Specification: Uses light pulses through glass fibers
Standard: Can support speeds up to 100 Gbps theoretically

Related Terms