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Why is my internet so slow?

Our resource will help you diagnose and troubleshoot your slow internet issues to see if there’s a quick fix or if you need to switch providers or upgrade your plan.

Written by Rebecca Sowell • September 4, 2024 • 3 min read

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In the modern technological landscape, there’s little more frustrating than slow internet. Say you’ve gotten off of a long day at work and want to stream your favorite comfort shows, but the smart TV gives you the little blue wheel of death and says, over and over again, “Buffering.” Or you’re working from home, typing up an important Google Doc, and the internet disconnects and you’re locked out. 

We at Brightspeedplans.com feel your pain. Hopefully, our helpful resource will help you diagnose and troubleshoot your slow internet issues to see if there’s a quick fix or if you need to switch providers or upgrade your plan.

Possible causes of slow internet

If you find yourself asking “Why is my internet slow today?” here are some of the most common causes of a slow internet connection.

  • Network congestion. Suppose you have multiple devices connected to the internet running simultaneously (for example, playing a console game online while streaming music from your phone while another family member streams a movie in the other room). In that case, your bandwidth might be stretched thin, slowing the connection. If you experience this issue often with multiple devices connected, you may need faster speeds.
  • Distance from your router. The farther you are from your router, the weaker the signal your Wi-Fi-enabled device receives.
  • Outdated equipment. Older routers or modems may not support modern tech like dual-band Wi-Fi, resulting in slower internet.
  • Interference. Physical obstructions like walls or floors, or electronic devices such as microwaves, can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal.
  • ISP issues. Your internet service provider may be experiencing outages or network issues in your area. 
  • Background applications. If your device runs software updates or cloud backups, that can consume much of your bandwidth.
  • Viruses or malware. Malicious software often consumes bandwidth and slows down your internet connection in addition to its more-publicized dangers.
  • Throttling. Some ISPs throttle or limit the speed of certain types of traffic, such as video streaming, during peak hours or after you’ve used a certain amount of data. Check to see if your plan has built-in data caps.
  • Browser issues. A slow or outdated browser can lower your device’s browsing speed even if your internet connection from the provider is running smoothly.

How do you fix a slow internet connection?

Before prescribing any direct fixes for how to boost download speed, we recommend testing your internet speed. This will tell you if the problem is with the speed coming from your internet service provider or another of the above-listed issues. 

Once you’ve determined your issue’s cause, there are actions you can take.

  • If there is an issue with your Wi-Fi connection … place your router in a different, more central location; purchase Wi-Fi mesh extenders to extend your router’s reach throughout the home; upgrade your equipment; or simply try turning it off and back on again (you’d be surprised how many issues this fixes).
  • If there is an issue with your device … update your browser and other relevant software and apps; close background applications; run virus and malware checks (usually found in your device’s Settings menu); or, what the heck, try turning it off and back on again and see if that solves the issue.
  • If there is an issue with your ISP … call or chat with their customer service team; check online to find or report outages in your area; upgrade to a plan with higher speeds; or, if necessary, switch to another provider.

How do I know if I need a faster internet plan?

If your speed test results match your provider’s promised speeds, and you’re still experiencing difficulty doing everything your home needs to do online, it’s time to upgrade to a new plan or switch providers.

If you are a current Brightspeed customer or interested in becoming one, visit our customer service page to contact us about upgrades or new plans.

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Resource Center

Discover the best internet for gaming

Your gaming internet questions, answered.

Written by Rebecca Sowell • April 8, 2024 • < 1

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Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive esports enthusiast, the quality of your internet service can make or break your gaming experience. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the realm of gaming internet, shedding light on what makes for great internet for gaming.

Understanding the importance of internet for gaming

Gaming has evolved far beyond a solitary activity, with multiplayer online games becoming the norm. Whether you’re engaging in intense first-person shooter battles, exploring vast open-world environments, or participating in esports tournaments, a reliable internet connection forms the foundation of a smooth gaming experience. Let’s break down the key aspects that make an internet connection gaming-friendly.

Low latency

Low latency is the Holy Grail for gamers. It refers to the delay between your input (such as pressing a button or moving the mouse) and the corresponding action taking place on your screen. In fast-paced games, every millisecond counts, and a low-latency connection can be the decisive factor between victory and defeat.

Investing in a fiber internet plan is a surefire way to ensure low latency. Because fiber internet typically provides symmetrical download and upload speeds, every click and move you make will be reflected within your game quicker than with a cable internet connection.

High bandwidth

Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be transmitted over an internet connection per unit of time. For gaming, a high bandwidth is essential to handle the constant exchange of data between your device and the game server. This ensures a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience, especially in graphics-intensive games or those with large player bases.

Stable connection

Imagine being in the final moments of a high-stakes game, only to be thwarted by a sudden connection drop. Stability is key to a strong gaming internet. A stable connection ensures that you stay connected to the game server without sudden interruptions, reducing the risk of disconnections and lag spikes that negatively affect your gaming performance.

Brightspeed Internet delivers unmatched speeds

Now that we understand the vital components of gaming internet, let’s turn our attention to Brightspeed Internet and its position as a top contender in the world of gaming connectivity.

Super-fast speeds

With a Brightspeed Fiber Internet connection, you get fast download and upload speeds up to 940 Mbps—ensuring that your gaming data travels at the speed of light. With high-speed plans, you can bid farewell to the frustration of slow downloads and experience minimal lag during online gaming sessions. The emphasis on speed is a testament to Brightspeed’s commitment to providing a superior gaming experience.

Low latency = seamless gameplay

Brightspeed Internet’s low latency ensures that your commands are executed in real-time, offering an incredibly responsive gaming experience. For strategic maneuvers or lightning-fast reflex actions, Brightspeed’s low latency gives you the competitive edge you need to outperform your opponents.

Unlimited data

Brightspeed’s unlimited data allows gamers to explore expansive virtual realms without fear of reaching limits. It’s a ticket to continuous gameplay, enabling seamless access to online multiplayer, massive game downloads, and high-definition streaming. 

With unlimited data, gamers can indulge in lengthy sessions, engage in competitive play, and enjoy the evolving landscape of the gaming industry without worrying about data constraints. Game for as long as you want, whenever you want, with Brightspeed Internet.

Find your ideal gaming internet plan

To choose the best gaming internet, you must consider several factors, including your gaming habits, the number of connected devices in your home, and your budget. 

Assess your gaming needs

Before we talk about specific internet plans, determine your gaming needs. Consider the types of games you play, the frequency of your gaming sessions, and whether you stream or video chat while gaming. Understanding your requirements will guide you in selecting a plan that caters to your specific needs.

Bandwidth considerations: Matching speed with demand

You’ll want an internet plan that can keep up with your gaming habits. Depending on your preferences, a 100 Mbps copper connection can support you just fine. If you are a more intense gamer, you may need a fiber connection to keep up with your favorite games.

Games with lower bandwidth needs:

  1. Casual games: Simple mobile or browser-based games often have minimal bandwidth requirements.
  2. Turn-based strategy games: Games that don’t require constant real-time updates, allowing for a smoother experience on lower bandwidth.

Games with higher bandwidth requirements:

  1. First-person shooters (FPS): Fast-paced action demands more data for real-time player movements and interactions.
  2. Massive multiplayer online games (MMOs): With a multitude of players sharing a virtual world, MMOs often require higher bandwidth for seamless interactions.
  3. High-resolution/Open-world games:  Graphics-intensive games with detailed environments or large maps necessitate more data for smooth rendering and exploration.

Ultimately, the specific bandwidth needed depends on the game’s complexity, graphics, and the intensity of multiplayer interactions. Brightspeed Internet’s high-speed plans cater to a spectrum of gaming needs, ensuring a reliable connection for various gaming experiences.

Multiple devices, one connection

If you share your internet connection with family members or roommates, consider the number of devices that will be simultaneously connected. A plan with higher bandwidth and greater capacity accommodates multiple users and devices without compromising gaming performance.

With a Brightspeed Fiber plan, you get Wi-Fi in every room of your home. That means you get the same fast speeds in any room, at the same time as other members of your household.

Budget-friendly gaming

Gaming costs can stack up quickly, so finding an internet plan that fits your budget is vital. Brightspeed Internet offers a range of plans catering to different needs and budgets, ensuring that you can enjoy a fantastic gaming experience without breaking the bank.

With Brightspeed’s simple billing structure, you can ensure you’re paying the same price every month—without hidden fees or annual contracts.

Optimize your gaming setup

Beyond selecting the right internet plan, optimizing your gaming setup is crucial for a top-tier gaming experience. Let’s explore key tips and tricks to enhance your gaming environment.

Wired vs. wireless

While wireless connections offer convenience, a wired connection is often more stable for gaming. Consider connecting your gaming device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable to minimize potential interference and reduce latency. This simple switch can make a significant difference in the stability of your gaming connection.

Quality of equipment

The quality of your gaming equipment, including your router and gaming device, can impact your overall gaming experience. When you invest in a gaming router designed for low latency and high performance, your connection will be stronger and more reliable. 

Similarly, secure a smoother gaming experience by ensuring that your gaming device meets or exceeds the recommended specifications for your favorite games.

Network security

Securing your network is not only essential for protecting sensitive data but also for maintaining a stable gaming connection. Set up strong passwords for your Wi-Fi network, enable WPA3 encryption if available, and regularly update your router’s firmware. A secure network is less susceptible to unauthorized access and potential disruptions during gaming sessions.

Best options for gaming internet

Brightspeed Internet provides some of the strongest internet for gaming on the market—including fiber internet plans. Check availability to find the best Brightspeed plans offered in your area.

Minimum internet speeds for gaming

Brightspeed offers plans starting at 20 Mbps, which can keep up with most online games. Plus, with a fiber connection, you can get speeds up to 940 Mbps.

Check out the minimum speeds recommended by platforms to see what speed you need for your gaming lifestyle:

  • Xbox One single-player: 3 Mbps
  • Playstation single-player: 3 Mbps
  • PC: 10 Mbps
  • Online multiplayer: 10 Mbps

Brightspeed Fiber’s ping and latency

Low ping, crucial for gaming, is offered by Brightspeed’s fiber plans. Avoid lag and rubberbanding in online matches with a consistent, low-latency connection.

Affordable Brightspeed options for gamers

Spend less on internet and more on gaming! Budget-friendly Brightspeed plans start at $50/month and offer enough speed for casual gamers. With a Brightspeed Internet connection, you can enjoy smooth gameplay without breaking the bank.

Brightspeed internet plans for gaming vs. cable internet for gaming

Overall, cable internet can keep up with most gamers, but it pales in comparison to the power of Brightspeed Fiber. A cable connection gives you asymmetrical upload and download speeds, with reliable, secure download speeds reaching up to 100 Mbps and significantly lower upload speeds.

With a Brightspeed Fiber connection, however, you get equal upload and download speeds, guaranteed connectivity in every room, plus speeds up to 940 Mbps. For most gamers, this is the ideal setup for a strong gaming experience.

Frequently asked questions

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What internet is best for gaming?

A fiber internet connection is the best option for gaming. Its unparalleled speed and low latency ensure a seamless gaming experience, reducing lag and enhancing responsiveness. Fiber internet's dedicated lines transmit data faster than traditional connections, providing a stable and reliable connection for gamers. Brightspeed Internet, with its emphasis on fiber technology, offers a top-tier gaming experience, making it an ideal choice for avid gamers seeking the best internet for their gaming needs.

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Can I use Brightspeed internet for cloud gaming?

Absolutely! Brightspeed Internet is an excellent choice for cloud gaming. With a high-speed and low-latency connection, Brightspeed ensures a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Whether you're engaging in multiplayer battles or exploring vast virtual worlds, Brightspeed's reliable internet service provides the ideal foundation for seamless cloud gaming.

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Is Brightspeed Internet good for gaming?

Yes, Brightspeed Internet is a great option for gaming. With speeds up to 940 Mbps, a Brightspeed fiber internet plan can keep up with all your favorite games.

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What internet speeds do I need for gaming?

For casual or solo gaming, a minimum of 25 Mbps is sufficient, ensuring smooth gameplay. However, for competitive multiplayer and seamless streaming, consider opting for speeds ranging from 50 to 100 Mbps. These higher speeds provide the necessary bandwidth for a responsive gaming experience, minimizing lag and optimizing performance. Brightspeed Internet offers a range of plans to meet varying gaming needs, ensuring you have the ideal speed for your gaming preferences.

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How does Brightspeed compare to other internet providers for gaming?

Brightspeed offers some of the best gaming internet on the market. With a Brightspeed plan, you get: Fiber internet: With low latency and ping rates, a fiber internet connection offers a smooth gaming experience across all platforms. Affordable pricing: Brightspeed plans start at $50/mo. with unlimited data and no hidden fees. Widespread availability: Brightspeed provides service to 20 states across the US, with a constantly expanding fiber network.

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Resource Center

Brightspeed Internet outages: a comprehensive guide

Brightspeed Troubleshooting Tips and Solutions

Written by Rebecca Sowell • April 5, 2024 • < 1

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Few things are more frustrating than experiencing an unexpected internet outage. Whether you rely on the web for work, education, entertainment, or simply staying connected with loved ones, a disruption in your internet service can cause significant inconvenience and stress. 

If you’re a Brightspeed Internet subscriber, you’re likely accustomed to reliable connectivity. However, even the most robust networks encounter issues from time to time. In this guide, we’ll explore what to do when faced with a Brightspeed Internet outage, offering practical tips to help you minimize disruption and restore connectivity as quickly as possible.

 

Understanding Brightspeed Internet outages

Brightspeed Internet is typically known for its reliability and speed. However, like any other internet service provider, Brightspeed is susceptible to occasional outages due to various factors such as technical issues, maintenance activities, or external disruptions like severe weather conditions. 

When a Brightspeed outage occurs, users may find themselves unable to access the internet, which can impact productivity, communication, and entertainment activities.

 

Identifying a Brightspeed outage

The first step in addressing a Brightspeed outage is to confirm whether the issue is widespread or localized to your specific connection. Here’s how you can determine if there’s a broader problem affecting Brightspeed users:

1. Check Brightspeed’s official channels

Visit Brightspeed’s website or social media accounts for any announcements or updates regarding service disruptions. Brightspeed’s troubleshooter tool can also help you determine the cause of an outage and whether it’s specific to your account or your local area.

2. Contact Brightspeed support

If you suspect an outage but haven’t found any information online, contact Brightspeed’s customer support. They can verify if there’s a known issue in your area and assist accordingly.

3. Use alternative communication channels

If you’re unable to access the internet, try reaching out to friends or neighbors who are also Brightspeed subscribers. If they’re experiencing similar issues, it’s likely a widespread outage.

4. Monitor local news sources

In cases of severe weather or infrastructure damage, local news outlets may report on internet outages affecting specific regions, including Brightspeed service areas.

 

Woman uses cell phone while standing next to table with laptop.

Taking immediate steps during a Brightspeed outage

Once you’ve confirmed that you’re experiencing a Brightspeed outage, there are several steps you can take to mitigate its impact and stay connected:

1. Stay calm and patient

While internet outages can be frustrating, it’s essential to remain calm and patient. Outages are temporary, and service providers work diligently to restore connectivity as quickly as possible.

2. Switch to mobile data

If you have access to a mobile data plan, consider using your smartphone or mobile hotspot to stay connected temporarily. This can be especially helpful for urgent tasks that cannot wait until the internet is restored.

3. Maximize offline productivity

Take advantage of the outage period to focus on tasks that don’t require internet access. This could include organizing files, brainstorming ideas, or tackling household chores.

4. Stay informed

Continue monitoring Brightspeed’s official channels for updates on the outage status and estimated restoration times. Providers typically communicate progress and important information through their website, social media, or automated phone messages.

5. Utilize public Wi-Fi

If available and safe to do so, consider accessing public Wi-Fi networks offered by cafes, libraries, or community centers. Be cautious when using public networks and avoid accessing sensitive information or making online transactions on unsecured connections.

6. Restart your equipment

Sometimes, a simple restart of your modem or router can resolve connectivity issues. Turn off the devices, wait a few minutes, then power them back on to see if it helps restore your internet connection.

7. Contact neighbors or local community

Reach out to neighbors or local community groups to inquire if others are experiencing the same outage. Collaborating with others can provide support and potentially lead to shared solutions.

8. Report the outage

If you haven’t already done so, report the outage to Brightspeed’s customer support. Providing detailed information about your location and the nature of the issue can help expedite the resolution process.

 

Woman uses laptop while standing in kitchen.

Long-term strategies for dealing with Brightspeed outages

While occasional outages are inevitable with any internet service provider, there are steps you can take to minimize their impact and ensure a smoother experience in the future:

1. Backup connectivity options

Consider investing in alternative internet connectivity options such as a mobile data hotspot. Having a backup connection can provide peace of mind during extended outages.

2. Stay informed about maintenance schedules

Brightspeed and other ISPs often conduct routine maintenance activities that may temporarily disrupt service. Stay informed about scheduled maintenance windows by subscribing to provider notifications or checking their website regularly.

3. Explore redundancy solutions

For businesses or individuals with critical internet-dependent operations, redundancy solutions like failover routers or dual-WAN setups automatically switch to an alternative connection in the event of a primary outage.

4. Provide feedback to Brightspeed

If you encounter recurring issues or have suggestions for improving service reliability, don’t hesitate to provide feedback to Brightspeed. Customer input plays a vital role in helping ISPs identify areas for improvement and enhance the overall user experience.

5. Stay prepared for emergencies

In addition to internet outages, emergencies such as power outages or natural disasters can also disrupt connectivity. Keep essential supplies on hand, including flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food items, to ensure you’re prepared for unexpected situations.

 

Frequently asked questions about Brightspeed outages

What causes a Brightspeed Internet outage?

Brightspeed internet outages can be caused by various factors, including technical glitches, maintenance activities, infrastructure damage from severe weather events, and external disruptions like fiber cuts. Additionally, issues with network equipment or software updates can contribute to service interruptions. 

While Brightspeed strives to maintain reliable connectivity, occasional outages are inevitable due to the complex nature of telecommunications infrastructure and the reliance on external factors beyond the provider’s control.

How can I talk to a real person at Brightspeed?

To speak with a member of the Brightspeed customer service team, go to the Brightspeed customer support page and call the number provided for the type of issue you are experiencing.

Why isn’t my Brightspeed internet working?

As discussed in this guide, there are several reasons why your Brightspeed Internet might be experiencing an outage. Use the troubleshooter tool to see which of the following reasons pertains to your circumstance.

  • An area outage affecting the network on a large scale, e.g., citywide
  • A home outage affecting the network between the local node and your home
  • An equipment problem identifying a problem with your router’s hardware or software
  • A service suspension from a missed payment, e.g., from an expired payment method

Brightspeed Internet plans

Brightspeed prides itself on bringing reliable, cost-effective internet to customers across the U.S. Check out the internet plans available in your area to see if you can upgrade your Brightspeed Internet to ensure a faster connection.

Brightspeed Fiber

One way to avoid some internet outages is to invest in a fiber-optic internet plan. With a Brightspeed Fiber plan, you get a faster, more reliable connection with less susceptibility to outside interference.

Unlike traditional copper-based networks, fiber-optic cables transmit data using light signals, resulting in faster and more stable internet connections. Fiber optics are less susceptible to signal degradation over long distances, electromagnetic interference, and inclement weather conditions, making them highly resilient to common causes of internet outages. 

Additionally, Brightspeed’s dedicated fiber lines ensure that users experience consistent speeds and minimal latency, even during peak usage hours. If Brightspeed Fiber Internet is available in your area, you can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity for work, entertainment, and communication needs, making it a dependable choice for your home internet.

 

Resources

https://www.brightspeed.com/help/internet/internet-or-phone-not-working.html

https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/internet-down-again-here-are-5-possible-causes-and-how-to-fix-them/

https://dssr.brightspeed.com/digicustcare/sts?clreqid=c27b1cb2-ec36-4087-81bb-7ca0054be982&cl_system=mapi&cl_system_id=c27b1cb2-ec36-4087-81bb-7ca0054be982&kbid=162710

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Resource Center

How and Why to Test Your Internet Speed

Speed tests can help you troubleshoot your connection — and decide if you want something better.

Written by Madeline Gearheart • April 4, 2024 • 3 min read

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Does your internet seem slower than usual? Run a speed test to measure your current download speed, upload speed, and more. The results can help you understand how well your home internet performs, giving you info you need to either work toward a solution or consider a switch.

How to test your internet speed

It’s simple — run the Brightspeed internet speed test. First, make sure that you’re on the internet network you want to test (you can’t test your home network from the café or vice versa). When you’re ready, click below to go to the Brightspeed speed test, then hit GO and watch your results populate in moments.

Run the Brightspeed internet speed test

Understanding your speed test results

Once the Brightspeed speed test wraps up, you’ll see a small report with four speed measurements. Here’s how to interpret those results.

Download speed

Higher = better

Download speed measures the highest volume of data, in bits per second, that your router can accept from the greater world wide web at the moment of testing.

This figure doesn’t reflect how much data you’re using at that moment, just how large your container for data is. Your container size is determined by the maximum plan speed you purchased and how your ISP protocols are parsing out data capacities at the exact moment of testing.

Upload speed

Higher = better

Upload speed measures the highest volume of data, in bits per second, that your router can send to the greater world wide web at the moment of testing.

If your upload speed is much lower than your download speed, that’s normal. Historically, people have spent the vast majority of their internet time on download-direction activities, so internet providers have structured their plans accordingly.

However, the need for higher upload speeds is rising with the use of upstream activities such as cloud backup, video calling, and multiplayer gaming. Fiber internet does an excellent job of meeting both needs — usually, fiber plans offer upload speeds as fast as download speeds.

Ping (rate)

Lower = better

Ping measures the actual clock time that elapses between a single input, such as a tap or click, and its intended result. This window is so short it’s measured in milliseconds, i.e., one-thousandths of a second. 

As any internet user in history can attest, though, milliseconds can feel like millennia — that’s why high ping rates are often simply referred to as “lag.”

Since dozens of data requests happen every time you click, tap, or scroll, it’s important to measure more than one of them to get useful insights from a speed test. The ping you see in your report is usually an average of ping rates from multiple data requests in a row. 

The lower average ping you have, the smoother and more responsive you can expect your internet to feel, provided you have enough bandwidth to support the activity you want to do.

Jitter

Lower = better

Jitter measures the average difference in clock time between each of the ping rates your speed test collected. 

If you look at only the average ping rate, you’ll have no idea how widely the ping rates in that data set vary. Looking at the variance between pings helps you understand whether they stayed fairly stable or jumped all over the place during a brief internet task.

The higher the jitter, the more your ping rate varies from click to click and the less you can depend on a consistently responsive internet experience.

Why to test your internet speed

Mostly, a speed test is handy for two things: troubleshooting a slow or spotty internet connection, and informing your search for better internet if you don’t like your results.

To use the Brightspeed internet speed test for troubleshooting, run one before calling customer service and share the results with your agent. The test will help them understand whether the problem is on your home network or the larger area network you’re connected to.

If they can’t help you, you may need to upgrade to a higher speed plan — or shop for new internet service with more promising upload speeds, download speeds, or lag/reliability indicators.

Experience the Brightspeed difference 

Shop reliable Brightspeed internet speeds starting at up to 100 Mbps — and Brightspeed fiber with multi-gig speeds and exceptionally low lag.

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Resource Center

Fiber vs Cable Internet

Want to learn more about the difference between fiber and cable internet? Brightspeed’s guide to fiber vs. cable has all you need to know

Written by Annie Eyre • July 11, 2023 • 6 min read

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Chances are, if you’ve purchased an internet plan in the past few years, you’ve seen a lot about fiber vs cable internet. 

Maybe you’ve seen fiber-optic internet heralded as the fastest internet service available, or seen cable internet advertised in conjunction with cable TV plans. 

Whatever the case, it’s important to learn the difference between these two common types of internet connection. Whether you’re looking for a new internet plan or simply want to increase your technical know-how, our guide to fiber vs. cable internet has got you covered.

 

Fiber-optic vs. cable internet connection types

Before we compare the two, let’s explain how fiber and cable internet work.

Fiber

Fiber internet transfers data into your home through fiber-optic cables. This type of connection provides fast upload and download speeds that are less susceptible to outside interference than typical internet connections.

How do fiber-optic cables work?

Each cable contains an optical core made of thin glass or plastic fibers. These fibers receive LED or laser light signals and send them to your computer. Each pulse denotes a one or zero, which your device interprets as data.

Because light is faster than other forms of data transmission, this allows your device to receive data at a faster rate than other forms of internet connection allow. 

To protect data transfer from outside interference, the optical core is covered in inwardly reflective cladding. This cladding ensures the light signals stay within the core, so the signals can transfer regardless of the route of the cable. 

Finally, the cable is wrapped in lightweight Kevlar to keep the core intact. 

What’s so great about fiber internet?

Since fiber-optic internet transfers data through light pulses, it’s capable of sending data over longer distances at faster speeds than other types of network connections. These cables also provide greater bandwidth without interference from outside forces.

Overall, fiber is the best internet service currently on the market. While its newness means there’s less fiber availability than other types of internet service, many providers now offer fiber-optic internet plans. All in all, fiber internet is undoubtedly the fastest and most reliable way to receive internet to your household.

 

Cable 

Cable internet transmits data to your home through cable TV lines in your area. It provides fast download speeds and is widely available across the U.S.

How does cable internet work?

Cable internet uses coaxial cables. These consist of a copper or copper-covered steel core that transmits data through sound waves, which internet providers often take from modified radio waves sent through unused cable TV channels.

Because this type of connection uses pre-existing cable lines, the connection for each household eventually converges at a certain point (e.g. the end of your block or subdivision). If there’s an outage or interruption in one house in your area, chances are you’ll experience an outage as well.

What’s the bottom line?

While fiber internet provides the fastest speeds on the market, cable internet technically can reach similar speeds if used to its full potential. However, since multiple households share the same cable network, operators usually limit speeds so bandwidth can be shared equally, preventing any household from reaching the highest potential speeds.

Overall, cable internet is the second-fastest kind of internet service, and it’s widely available in ways that fiber internet is not. Nearly every internet service provider offers a cable internet plan.

 

Other types of internet connections

Let’s briefly go through the other common types of network connections.

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)

When it comes to fiber vs. cable vs. DSL, DSL’s bandwidth capabilities are similar to cable’s. As cable internet uses TV cables, DSL internet utilizes copper phone lines to transmit data to your household.

Compared to cable and fiber internet, DSL is widely available, especially in rural and remote areas. Since it utilizes phone lines, DSL isn’t connected to the rest of your neighborhood’s network, like cable is. A DSL service provides a direct line to your home and thus isn’t susceptible to the same outages shared networks are.

There’s a limit to how fast DSL internet can be, however. It has the capability to reach up to 100 Mbps, but typically provides slower speeds than that. Signal degradation lowers its reliability over long distances. 

Satellite

Satellite internet is used mainly in rural areas where DSL, cable, and fiber internet services aren’t available. 

Using the same principles as satellite TV, satellite internet begins with an internet service provider sending satellites into space to orbit the earth. The internet provider uses a signal routed through its satellites and a dish that receives those signals. 

Satellite internet users place a receiver dish on their home or workplace in a place with an unobstructed view of the sky. They’ll connect their modem to the dish, which will translate the satellite signals into data that connects them to the internet.

Overall, this form of internet service is slow and often expensive but provides a network connection to many homes in less populated areas.

Fixed wireless

Fixed wireless is another internet service option for people living in rural areas. 

This type of connection utilizes towers that broadcast signals through airwaves to receivers on your property. These receivers are typically installed by your internet service provider and need to be within a 10-mile radius of the fixed wireless internet provider’s tower.  

A fixed wireless connection is a more affordable option than satellite internet, without requiring the use of fiber or cables. Although it doesn’t offer speeds that are as fast as cable or fiber internet, broad bandwidth is still achievable with this type of connection because there are no wires or cables where signals can degrade.

 

Fiber-optic vs. cable internet speed capabilities

While both fiber and cable internet offer fast speeds and broad bandwidth, there are some key differences in the speed quality that both services provide.

Fiber internet speeds

Fiber-optic internet connections transmit data through light pulses, resulting in faster speeds, more reliability, and broader bandwidth.

Fiber internet plans typically offer a range of 250 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gig), but speeds can reach multi-Gig levels. To put that in perspective, with a 1 Gig fiber internet plan, it would take less than five seconds for you to download an hour-long episode of TV.  With a 20 Mbps traditional internet plan, it would take over five minutes to download that same episode.

Plus, with fiber internet speeds, you get symmetrical upload and download speeds. That might not make a huge difference if you mainly use the internet for streaming and surfing the web, since you’ll mainly be downloading content as opposed to uploading it. However, if you work from home, a fast upload speed means your video calls will be faster and smoother. And if you’re someone who plays video games in your free time, a fast upload speed means that your device can upload data every time you click a button or move your mouse—effectively helping you experience less lag and more success.

 

Cable internet speeds

Cable internet plans typically range from 10 Mbps to 200 Mbps in download speeds, though a cable service can provide up to 1,000 Mbps or 1 Gig in some areas. 

The key difference between a fiber and cable connection is that with cable internet, the upload speed is not as fast as the download speed. So while a plan might offer 300 Mbps in download speeds, the upload speed might only be a fraction of that amount. 

If you’re someone who mainly uses the internet for streaming content, a slow upload speed won’t matter much. After all, 10 Mbps in upload speed is plenty fast enough to keep up with emails and social media.

Ultimately, determining whether cable or fiber internet is better for you comes down to your digital lifestyle and internet habits.

 

What option is good for me?

When it comes down to it, both fiber and cable internet are fast, reliable ways to receive a network connection in your home. Figuring out which option is better for you really depends on what you value in an internet service.

 

Fiber Internet

Cable Internet
  • Speeds up to 10 Gig
  • Equal upload and download speeds
  • Limited availability
  • More reliable
  • More expensive
  • Best for video conferencing, online gaming, remote work and school, downloading and uploading large files
  

  • Speeds up to 1 Gig
  • Unequal upload and download speeds
  • Widely available
  • Can bundle with cable TV
  • Less reliable
  • More affordable
  • Best for streaming, casual browsing, downloading large files

cable-vs-fiber-check-availability

Brightspeed cable and fiber internet options

Now that you’ve learned more about how cable and fiber internet plans work, upgrade your internet plan to the right connection for you. 

Brightspeed internet provides cable and fiber plans to 20 states across the U.S. Our plans are fast and affordable, so you can work, game, and stream at home without stress.

Check out the Brightspeed availability in your area to see the plans offered near you. With our high-speed network, you’ll have a seamless internet experience to fit your online needs.

 

Resources

https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/satellite-internet-explained

https://www.allconnect.com/blog/fiber-vs-cable

https://www.highspeedinternet.com/resources/fiber-vs-cable

https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/networking/fiber-vs-cable-what-is-the-difference/

https://www.techtarget.com/searchmobilecomputing/definition/fixed-wireless

 

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