What is fibre broadband?
Broadband refers to a high-speed, always-on internet connection. Fibre-based broadband is the next evolution of broadband; it is quicker, more reliable, and uses different technology than its predecessors. Unlike conventional broadband service, which uses copper telephone lines, fibre-based broadband uses fibre-optic cable to connect end users to their service providers. Fibre-optic broadband is by far the quickest way to access the internet today.
How fast is fibre broadband?
Fibre-optic broadband is a new standard of Ultrafast broadband that offers internet speeds of up to 1Gbps. However, most households only require a maximum of 150Mbps to handle multiple devices at once.
The UK’s average internet speed as of 2022 is currently around 60Mbps, yet, there are still areas of the UK receiving less than 2Mbps or no internet at all.
The term “superfast” refers to the speed at which broadband is delivered to the residence. According to Ofcom, speeds greater than 24 Mbps are considered “superfast.” As part of the universal service obligation, it is expected that all residences will have access to at least 2 Mbps of bandwidth in the years to come.
How does fibre broadband work?
Fibre-optic cable functions at a faster frequency rate using light bursts and operates with considerably less interference, allowing for much longer transmission lengths without degrading the signal quality. The higher the frequency, the more bandwidth you have, and the faster your connection will be.
What is the difference between FTTC and FTTP?
There are 2-types of fibre optic broadband: Fibre-to-the-Cabinet (FTTC) & Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP), also known as full-fibre.
FTTC is a hybrid approach using fibre-optic cables and copper wiring. It works by running fibre up to a distribution cabinet (the green boxes you might recognise on the street) which will then send broadband to the properties on the street via copper wires, resulting in variable speeds. FTTC connections can expect a broadband speed between 40-80Mbps.
FTTP involves fibre optic cables running directly into the property and receiving the fastest possible speeds. A full-fibre connection can expect broadband speeds of 150Mbps up to a potential 1Gbps.
Top 3 benefits of fibre broadband
Fibre is a future-proofed technology that offers many advantages over traditional broadband. You can find more information on the benefits of fibre here.
Fast internet speeds
Fast and reliable broadband directly affects how satisfying the user’s internet experience is. A 150Mbps broadband speed could download a 4Gb ultra-HD film in less than 4 minutes as opposed to a copper-only connection at <17Mbps, which would take 30 minutes as long as every other device in the household is disconnected.
Better connection
The peace of mind that comes from having a fibre-optic broadband connection in your home is invaluable if you have a large family where everyone has their own device and uses it frequently. Thanks to the lightning-fast responsiveness and reliability of fibre broadband, everyone can be online at once without experiencing any lag or delay.
Fibre broadband enables users to do things like shop, watch movies and TV shows, play games, keep in touch with friends and family, and so much more, with ease.
Lower energy cost
Fibre optics is a superior choice for reduced energy consumption and the environment compared to copper. Fibre optic is a long-lasting solution that requires less energy, less space and has a reduced carbon footprint.
Fibre optic is also manufactured from a more eco-conscious material, due to most fibre networks being manufactured of silicon glass, a premium glass made out of Silicon dioxide (Si02). This material is considered the second most common element on earth, in contrast to copper, which harvesting has detrimental consequences to the planet.
Why do I need fibre broadband?
Fibre optic is also manufactured from a more eco-conscious material, due to most fibre networks being manufactured of silicon glass, a premium glass made out of Silicon dioxide (Si02). This material is considered the second most common element on earth, in contrast to copper, which harvesting has detrimental consequences to the planet.
Do I need fibre broadband?
Fibre optic is also manufactured from a more eco-conscious material, due to most fibre networks being manufactured of silicon glass, a premium glass made out of Silicon dioxide (Si02). This material is considered the second most common element on earth, in contrast to copper, which harvesting has detrimental consequences to the planet.
Also, with the world becoming more digital, it’s important to have the ability to adapt to it.
Ultimately, fibre broadband is more expensive, but having stable, high-speed broadband is worth it if you can afford it.
