Internet Archives - Brightspeed Plans

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

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Outdated equipment.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.

How is fiber-optic internet installed?

Check this brief guide to learn how fiber-optic internet is installed and what to expect during your installation appointment.

Written by Madeline Gearheart • August 7, 2024 • 2 min read

Fiber-optic internet is transforming internet connectivity nationwide. If you’ve had the same internet plan for a few years or recently moved to a new area, you might find that fiber is now available near you.

Before you can start using your new multi-gig fiber speeds, you’ll need professional installation since most homes don’t have an existing fiber hookup. Read on for an overview of how fiber-optic internet is installed and a detailed list of what to expect during your appointment.

How is fiber internet installed?

And how does fiber internet connect to your house?

Fiber is installed the same way other internet technologies were about 30 years ago: your provider builds a central network of internet cabling, then installs branches off that main network to reach their subscribers’ homes or businesses.

Cable, DSL, and fiber providers build that last leg to your home in a variety of ways, sometimes to a node shared by multiple customers and sometimes directly to each subscriber. Fiber to the home is the best type of connection — it means lower lag and more reliable performance.

What to expect from your fiber installation appointment

During your fiber-optic installation, your technician will need outdoor and indoor access to where you want to plug in your router. Usually, they’ll complete the installation steps in this order:

Your technician arrives, checks in with you, and helps you decide the best place to put your router.
The technician drills a hole in your wall between that spot and the exterior, then threads it with an Ethernet or fiber-optic line and connects it to a small box called an optical network terminal (ONT). Your ONT may sit indoors next to your router or outside in a weatherproof casing.
Outside, your technician runs a fiber-optic line from your ONT to the closest connection point with your provider’s central network, carefully anchoring the cable where needed.
Back inside, your technician plugs your router into your ONT via Ethernet cable, then configures your Wi-Fi network — and you’re good to go.

How can I get fiber internet?

Hankering for fiber internet speeds? First, check availability. If your area is eligible for Brightspeed fiber, you’ll see plans between 200 Mbps and multiple gigs, plus a phone number where you can order.

Already have a Brightspeed account? Reach customer service for help with account snags or technical issues.

Brightspeed Internet outages: a comprehensive guide

Brightspeed Troubleshooting Tips and Solutions

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

How to Get Internet in Rural Areas

Whether you live in a remote rural area or just outside a major city, this guide will help you find the best internet solution for your needs.

Written by Annie Eyre • July 12, 2023 • 6 min read

In 2023, having access to the internet is more important than ever, with many relying on it for work, education, communication, and entertainment.

However, internet access is not always readily available in rural areas, where infrastructure and population density may not support traditional broadband services. Luckily, there are several ways to obtain internet access in rural areas.

In this article, we’ll explore how to get fast internet in rural areas. Whether you live in a remote rural area or just outside a major city, this guide will help you find the best internet solution for your needs.

The digital divide: Why high-speed internet matters in rural areas

Before we get into the specific ways to get rural internet in your area, let’s talk about why high-speed internet is crucial for rural communities.

First, it can help bridge the digital divide by providing access to online educational resources, job opportunities, and telehealth services that may not be available locally. With high-speed internet, rural residents can take online courses, attend virtual meetings, and access remote job opportunities that may be unavailable nearby.

High-speed internet also enhances the quality of life for rural residents by providing access to entertainment and social connections. With streaming services, online gaming, and social media, high-speed internet keeps rural residents connected with friends and family and gives access to a wider range of entertainment options.

For businesses in rural areas, fast internet service is essential to compete in today’s economy. With e-commerce, online marketing, and cloud-based services, businesses need reliable and fast broadband internet access to stay competitive and reach customers beyond their local area.

Overall, high-speed internet is crucial for the economic, educational, and social development of rural areas, and helps bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas.

Types of internet in rural areas

While rural areas don’t have as many options for internet plans as suburban or urban communities, there are still several types of accessible internet plans. Let’s go through the kinds of broadband internet typically available to rural customers.

Satellite internet

With satellite internet, your internet provider will install a satellite dish outside your home that sends and receives data from a satellite in space. It’s available virtually anywhere but can be affected by adverse weather conditions due to its reliance on clear skies.

Although it’s more accessible than other kinds of internet, satellite internet is significantly slower than most other options. Speeds typically only reach up to 20 Mbps at the fastest, which means latency and buffering rates are much higher.

Fixed wireless internet

Fixed wireless internet uses radio waves to connect a fixed antenna on your property to a nearby wireless internet service provider (WISP). This kind of internet is generally faster and more reliable than satellite internet but requires your home or property to have a clear line of sight between your antenna and the WISP’s tower.

This kind of connection is ideal for rural or remote areas where running traditional wired lines is nearly impossible. With speeds typically reaching up to 25 Mbps, fixed wireless is a solid option for most rural customers.

Although this kind of internet is also susceptible to weather-related disruptions, the easy setup, lower prices, and broad availability make it a popular choice for high-speed rural internet.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) internet

DSL internet uses existing telephone lines to provide a connection to the internet. It’s generally slower than cable or fiber internet, but it is more widely available in rural areas.

Because it uses existing infrastructure, DSL is usually more affordable and easier to set up than fiber or cable internet—all you need is a DSL modem to get connected. Plus, this kind of connection can be modified to reach comparable speeds to cable and fiber, making it a great choice for rural internet customers.

The downside of DSL is that it doesn’t support multiple users at the same time. Its signal strength and connection speed also lower with distance, meaning outlying customers might not be able to access a high-speed connection.

Fiber internet

Widely considered to be the best broadband internet currently available, fiber internet uses fiber-optic cables to transmit data at super-fast speeds. This kind of internet transfers data via light pulses sent through thin glass or plastic fibers, making multi-Gig speeds possible.

Because of its high speeds and reliability, fiber internet is a strong choice for internet wherever it’s available.

However, fiber internet is currently mainly available in densely populated areas, so it might be tricky to get it provided to a rural place. But internet providers are constantly expanding their fiber networks, so it could be available in your area in the future if it isn’t already.

How to get high-speed internet in rural areas

Now that we’ve gone through the various kinds of internet provided in rural areas, let’s walk through how to get these broadband connections to your area. Here are some of the most common options for rural internet:

Satellite internet: As mentioned earlier, satellite internet uses a satellite dish to send and receive data to and from a satellite in space. This is often the only option for those in remote areas without access to other types of internet and can be set up on your own or by your internet provider.
Fixed wireless internet: This type of internet uses radio waves to connect a fixed antenna on your home or property to a nearby wireless internet service provider (WISP).
Cellular internet: This type of internet uses a cellular network to provide internet access to devices, usually through a mobile hotspot device. Many cellular providers offer plans specifically for rural areas, so check with your local providers to see if that’s an option for you.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) internet: If you live close enough to a telephone exchange, DSL internet may be an option, since DSL uses existing telephone lines to provide a connection to the internet.
Fiber internet: While fiber internet is not yet widely available in rural areas, some providers are expanding their coverage. Keep updated on where internet providers are expanding to by visiting your preferred internet provider’s website.

It’s important to note that not all of these options may be available in your specific rural area. It’s a good idea to check with providers in your area to see what types of internet are available to you. Additionally, the speed and reliability of each type of internet varies depending on your location and other factors, so it’s important to do your research before selecting a provider and plan.

How to make your internet better in rural areas

If the only rural internet connections available in your area are not very fast or reliable, don’t worry. There are always ways to ensure your current connection is as fast as possible.

Update your equipment: If your internet is consistently slow, consider restarting or updating your router. Upgrading to a newer model can also significantly improve your connection speed.
Relocate your router: It can also help to move your router closer to the Wi-Fi devices you use most frequently. Relocating your router can help reduce the amount of interference between your router and devices, resulting in faster speeds and better performance.
Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network: If you have a large home or office, a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network helps extend the range of your Wi-Fi signal. Wi-Fi extenders and mesh networks use additional devices to amplify the signal and provide more coverage.
Check for interference: Other electronic devices, such as cordless phones or baby monitors, can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. Try moving these devices away from your router or changing the channel on your router to avoid interference.
Limit the number of connected devices: If you have a lot of devices connected to your Wi-Fi network, it can slow down the overall speed of your internet connection. Try limiting the number of devices connected at one time, or consider upgrading to a plan with a higher data cap.

Brightspeed Internet rural options

Now that we’ve gone through the best broadband internet options for rural customers, you’re ready to find the best option in your area.

Brightspeed Internet provides strong and reliable internet to rural and suburban areas across the U.S. Our goal is to make high-speed internet available in all areas of the country, so our network is constantly expanding—check out the Brightspeed availability page to see the options offered in your area.

Test your internet speed

Curious to see what your current internet speed is? Test your internet speed with Brightspeed’s internet speed test.

Our speed test shows you your current upload and download speeds, as well as your latency rate so you can judge whether you need to upgrade your plan.

Conclusion

People who reside in remote areas have several options for rural internet access, including satellite internet, fixed wireless internet, DSL internet, and fiber internet. Every type of internet has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the availability of each option varies depending on location.

If you’re in a rural area and looking for high-speed internet, it’s important to do your research and compare plans from different providers to find the best option for your needs.

Additionally, there are steps you can take to improve the speed and reliability of your existing internet connection, such as upgrading your router or checking for interference. With the right internet provider and plan, residents of rural areas can enjoy the benefits of high-speed internet just like their urban counterparts.

Resources

https://reolink.com/blog/internet-in-rural-area/

https://www.satelliteinternet.com/resources/high-speed-internet-for-rural-areas/

https://www.rsinc.com/how-to-boost-internet-in-rural-areas.php

https://www.usdish.com/internet-in-rural-areas

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

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

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

AI imagines Met Gala looks

We asked an AI art generator to design its best looks for past Met Gala themes. See how it did!

Written by Lauren Chapman • May 1, 2023 • < 1

What you should know about the 2023 Met Gala

The 2023 Met Gala is around the corner. We hope you’re ready to make a fashion statement!

In an attempt to boost revenue for the Metropolitan Museum of Art through New York’s high society, publicist Eleanor Lambert created the Met Gala in 1948. Today the Met Gala still occurs on the first Monday in May, marking the start of the most recent Costume Institute show. This year the late German-born designer, Karl Lagerfeld, will be honored for his iconic stylistic vocabulary with Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.

With the Met Gala being such a fashion-forward event, we were curious, could AI technology outdress the pros? For this project, we used MidJourney, a digital art AI system, to create realistic images from a description in natural language of styles from Met Gala themes over the past five years. Does AI do a good job at nailing the theme and coming up with looks? You be the judge!

2023: Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty

This year’s Met Gala theme will focus on Karl Lagerfeld’s work with prominent fashion houses such as Balmain, Chloé, Fendi, Chanel, and his namesake brand. In honor of the late designer, it would be appropriate for guests to wear any one of the following to dress to the theme:

A pivotal look from one of the brands Lagerfeld founded
Modern-day Chanel or Fendi (Lagerfeld left a remarkable impression on both houses)
Clothes similar to Lagerfeld (including a Choupette, his famous cat)

So, how did it go?

We noticed that Midjourney could not develop as creative designs as Karl Lagerfeld himself.

We prompted the AI to incorporate Lagerfeld’s key styles, like tweed jackets, monochrome, and chic and sophisticated looks. Still, it was unable to add that iconic Lagerfeld touch. The images the AI gave us were realistic. We tried to keep it simple by imagining what it would look like if someone dressed like Lagerfeld themselves, wearing black sunglasses, high-collared white shirts, a tailored black suit, fingerless gloves, leather boots, and a variety of statement jewelry pieces. We also imagined people wearing the classic tweed suit that Lagerfeld created for Chanel, along with the gold accessories and black dresses seen in the 1990 Winter/Fall Chanel Fashion Show.

2022: In America: An Anthology of Fashion

The second section of the Metropolitan Museum’s investigation into American fashion was titled In America: An Anthology of Fashion. The inaugural examination, In America: A Lexicon of Fashion, had its debut in September 2021 and served as the inspiration for the Met Gala that year. Anthology served as a historical retrospective of both the designs and the biographies of their creators, in contrast to Lexicon, which offered a broad view of American fashion as a whole, with a focus on its younger designers.

This year’s dress code, Gilded Glamour, was inspired by the Gilded Age of New York from 1870 to 1890. The fashion during that period was one of excess. Due to innovations in electric and steam-powered looms, the fabric became faster and cheaper. As a result, women’s dresses often combined various textiles, such as satin, silk, velvet, and fringe, all adorned with over-the-top textures such as lace, bows, frills, and ruffles.

So, how did it go?

The AI images were creative yet extravagant and captured the essence of the Gilded Age of New York.

We asked AI to create popular dress silhouettes related to the Gilded Age period. Accessories such as hats with feathers were necessary during that time, and dresses were colored with deep jewel tones. Overall, the style during this time was extravagant, so we wanted our AI looks to resemble that.

2021: In America: A Lexicon of Fashion

This theme is part one of a two-part exhibition. Andrew Bolton, The Costume Institute’s Wendy Yu Curator in Charge, told Vogue he centered the 2021 event around the question, “who gets to be American?”, which was originally posed on a red, white, and blue silk sash from Prabal Gurung’s tenth-anniversary collection. The exhibition included over 100 pieces from American designers, ranging from Marc Jacobs to La Réunion. Guests, including co-chairs Timothée Chalamet, Billie Eilish, Amanda Gorman, and Naomi Osaka, abided by the night’s official dress code: American independence.

So, how did it go?

MidJourney did a solid job at creating a look that aligned with the description we gave it.

Since this theme paid homage to America, we decided to create a tribute to American icons throughout history. We asked AI to give us their interpretation of a Diana Ross-inspired dress. We also asked for an Old Hollywood-inspired look, and just for fun, we asked for a red, white, and blue look. One of the red, white, and blue looks is inspired by AI’s interpretation of Ralph Lauren’s classic style.

2020: About Time: Fashion and Duration (COVID)

Although the 2020 gala was postponed indefinitely due to the pandemic, its theme is still worth revisiting. This theme’s AI-generated designs represent what could’ve been.

With the Met celebrating its 150th year, About Time looked back at a century and a half of fashion. Andrew Bolton, a British museum curator, was inspired by the 1992 movie Orlando, adapted from the Virginia Woolf novel. The exhibition for the Met Costume Institute showcased fashion from the 1870s to the present day. It featured 60 garments and each garment represented a minute in time. Each minute (garment) represents how fashion is linear and connected in some way—whether through the fabrics, shape, material, or pattern.

So, how did it go?

For the most part, we observed that the AI created fashion-forward images, but lacked a connection between the two dresses.

The Met Costume Institute’s 2020 exhibition featured 60 all-black garments to showcase a silhouette and one white dress at the end to symbolize the future of fashion. We asked AI to create a futuristically styled look for the Met Gala red carpet. We also had it create black dresses with similar connections to showcase the theme’s point this year.

2019: Camp: Notes on Fashion

For 2019’s exhibition, Andrew Bolton drew on Susan Sontag’s seminal 1964 essay, “Notes on Camp.” The essay discusses an aesthetic “sensibility” characterized by excess, performance, and a winking bad taste exhibited by individuals like Oscar Wilde and wacky aesthetic trends like Art Nouveau. Stunning outfits by Off-White, Schiaparelli, Moschino, Dior, and Thom Browne, were among the ensembles on display.

So, how did it go?

MidJourney did a great job at capturing the over-the-top looks associated with the Camp theme.

We guided AI to create its rendition of Camp by asking it to create dresses made of teddy bears, feathers, oversized hats, and bold colors. MidJourney created its version based on the ideas of Camp. We thought the teddy bears were quite over-the-top and theatrical, poking fun at the traditional red carpet dress, which is what Camp means to do. The oversized feather dress represents the dramatic and costume aspects of Camp, and the green dress played into the idea of excess and boldness.

Methodology

We researched the Met Gala themes over the past five years to prompt AI to create digital art. We used various prompts and art style descriptions to generate Met Gala looks from AI. MidJourney is an AI system that can create realistic images and art from a report in natural language. We collected the best images for each theme to compare AI’s work to fashion designers.

Information about the Met Gala was gathered from Vogue and the Met Museum. The images generated were gathered from MidJourney. We collected this data in March 2023.

About us

BrightspeedPlans.com is an online authorized reseller of Brightspeed. For media inquiries, please contact media@brightspeedplans.com.

The most popular Mario game series in your state—and the world

The world loves Mario—here’s how much. Click through to see numbers on the bestselling Mario game series and compare the trends in their online traffic.

Written by Madeline Gearheart • March 22, 2023 • < 1

Contents

Most searched Mario game series in your state [Map]
The bestselling Mario games of all time [Infographic]
Interesting findings
Methodology
About BrightspeedPlans
Most searched Mario game series in your state [Table]

One of the most beloved video game characters in history, Mario Game, the Italian plumber has been jumping turtles since before the scrunchie came, went, and came back into fashion again.

In 2023, Mario appears in over 100 self-titled Nintendo games, hangs out in Nintendo World at Universal Studios Orlando, and stars in the Super Mario Bros. movie premiering next month. And with over 70%¹ of Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X gaming online at least weekly, Mario might keep the public’s attention for years to come.

The team at BrightspeedPlans.com wanted to put some numbers on Mario’s popularity. Take a look below to learn your state’s most searched Mario game series and which titles in the franchise claim bestselling status.

Most searched Mario game series in your state

The bestselling Mario games of all time

Interesting findings

The Super Mario game series launched in 1985. Nearly 40 years later, it has become one of the bestselling and most-talked about series in the franchise.
- 23 states google Super Mario more than other Mario series.
- The series’ first-ever game, Super Mario Bros. (1985, NES), is also the series’ bestseller with $40.2 million in worldwide unit sales.
- A favorite among critics, Super Mario games average a Metascore of 87 out of 100. The highest individual score of 97 goes to Super Mario Odyssey (2017, Switch).
- As of March 2022, Super Mario games had earned over $396.8 million worldwide, making it the bestselling video game series of all time.
Mario Party takes the lead for Mario-oriented game searches in 17 states.
- Super Mario Party (2018, Switch) is the bestselling game of the franchise, bringing in $17.8 million in worldwide sales.
- The series’ most recent game, Mario Party Superstars (2021, Switch) claims the highest Metascore (80) against a series average of 71.
- As of March 2022, the whole Mario Party series had earned over $68.9 million in worldwide unit sales.
Mario sports series take the controller in 8 states, with top searches split between three series: Mario Strikers (5 states), Mario Golf (2 states), and Mario Tennis (1 state).
- Mario Tennis Aces (2018, Switch) is the bestselling Mario sports game with $3.7 million in worldwide unit sales.
- The average Metascore for Mario sports series is 73 out of 100.
Despite boasting some of the highest sales in the Mario franchise, Mario Kart gets searched most in only 2 states.
- With $45.3 million in worldwide revenue, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2017, Switch) is the bestselling game in the series—and in the entire Mario Nintendo games franchise.
- As of March 2022, Mario Kart titles had earned over $166.4 million worldwide.
- Mario Kart titles claim an average Metascore of 86 out of 100, running neck and neck with Super Mario for critical acclaim.

Methodology

First, we compiled a list of the most popular Mario game series in the Nintendo franchise using ratings from Fandom, VGChartz, and Metacritic; we then ranked the game titles in each major series by their all-time unit sales worldwide. We also used Google Trends, a website that analyzes the popularity of top search queries by region, to compare online interest over the last 12 months in each major Mario game series. We gathered this data in November 2022.

About

BrightspeedPlans.com is an online authorized reseller of Brightspeed.

For media inquiries, please contact media@brightspeedplans.com.

Most searched Mario game series in your state

State	Series
Alabama	Super Mario
Alaska	Mario Strikers
Arizona	Mario Party
Arkansas	Super Mario
California	Super Mario
Colorado	Mario Party
Connecticut	Super Mario
Delaware	Mario Party
District of Columbia	Mario Kart
Florida	Super Mario
Georgia	Super Mario
Hawaii	Mario Party
Idaho	Mario Party
Illinois	Super Mario
Indiana	Super Mario
Iowa	Mario Kart
Kansas	Super Mario
Kentucky	Super Mario
Louisiana	Super Mario
Maine	Mario Party
Maryland	Super Mario
Massachusetts	Mario Party
Michigan	Mario Party
Minnesota	Mario Party
Mississippi	Super Mario
Missouri	Super Mario
Montana	Mario Golf
Nebraska	Mario Strikers
Nevada	Mario Party
New Hampshire	Mario Party
New Jersey	Super Mario
New Mexico	Mario Strikers
New York	Super Mario
North Carolina	Super Mario
North Dakota	Mario Golf
Ohio	Super Mario
Oklahoma	Super Mario
Oregon	Mario Party
Pennsylvania	Super Mario
Rhode Island	Super Mario
South Carolina	Super Mario
South Dakota	Mario Tennis
Tennessee	Mario Party
Texas	Super Mario
Utah	Paper Mario
Vermont	Mario Strikers
Virginia	Mario Party
Washington	Mario Party
West Virginia	Mario Strikers
Wisconsin	Mario Party
Wyoming	Mario Party

^1. Arbanas, Jana; Westcott, Kevin. “Gen Z gamers are poised to shake up the media and entertainment industries for good,” Fortune. Retrieved 7 February 2023 from https://fortune.com/2021/04/19/gen-z-gamers-video-games-media-entertainment-outlook-changes-future/

The Most Searched Alternative Christmas Movie In America

The team at Brightspeed Plans found the most searched unconventional Christmas movies in the US—find out which film your state searched most.

Written by Rebecca Sowell • December 14, 2022 • < 1

Jump Links:

Map
Survey Data
Interesting Findings
Methodology
Who We Are

Classic holiday films like White Christmas, A Christmas Story, and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer are undeniably Christmassy, featuring visits to the North Pole and singalongs to holiday carols.

But what about other, less traditional films that take place during the holiday season? Remember the “Jingle Bell Rock” scene in Mean Girls, or the fact that the titular monsters of Gremlins terrorize their town on Christmas Eve?

Many online debates have surrounded the question of whether these nontraditional holiday films really qualify as Christmas movies. Some people are staunch traditional Christmas movie fans, while others will die on a hill for Die Hard.

To celebrate the holiday season in an unconventional way, the team at Brightspeed Plans wanted to find out which alternative Christmas movies America is searching for most. We also ran a survey to see if people agree with their state’s most searched film, and how committed they are to defending their favorite nontraditional Christmas flick.

We found that 66% of our survey respondents agreed with their state’s most searched unconventional movie, while 34% disagreed. Check out our findings to see which side of the debate you land on.

Your State’s Most Searched Unconventional Christmas Movie

Survey Data

We surveyed 1,000 Americans to find out what they think about the most searched alternative Christmas movies in the US. One important thing to note? The majority in every age group agreed with their state’s most searched controversial Christmas movie.

Interesting Findings

Die Hard is the most searched unconventional Christmas movie in the most states, with 27 states googling it most.
- 52% of our survey respondents consider Die Hard a Christmas movie.
Mean Girls is the most searched unconventional Christmas movie in the second most states, with five states googling the movie the most.
- 52% of the survey participants said that they don’t consider Mean Girls to be a Christmas movie.
30% of the participants feel strongly that their favorite unconventional holiday film is a Christmas movie and that no one will convince them otherwise.
- 30% of Gen Z respondents are open to being convinced otherwise.
- 30% of the Boomers don’t care at all.

Our Methodology

The team at Brightspeed Plans gathered unconventional Christmas movies with the help of publications like Parade, Esquire, and Shmoop, along with Instagram Polls. Once we had a list, we used SemRush, an SEO software platform, to gather search volume for each movie. We then selected the top 12 movies with the highest search volume and used Google Trends to gather analytics on volume search per state.

For our survey data, we surveyed 1,000 Americans using Pollfish, a market research software tool that gathers faster insights and results giving you real-time responses. We asked questions to gather insight on their favorite unconventional Christmas movie.

About

BrightspeedPlans.com is an online authorized reseller of Brightspeed.

Please email media@brightspeedplans.com with any questions.

Possible causes of slow internet

How do you fix a slow internet connection?

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

Recent Articles

How to choose the right fiber internet speed with Brightspeed

Why is my internet so slow?

What is Fiber Optic Internet and How Does it Work?

How is fiber internet installed?

And how does fiber internet connect to your house?

What to expect from your fiber installation appointment

How can I get fiber internet?

Recent Articles

How to choose the right fiber internet speed with Brightspeed

Why is my internet so slow?

What is Fiber Optic Internet and How Does it Work?

Understanding Brightspeed Internet outages

Identifying a Brightspeed outage

1. Check Brightspeed’s official channels

2. Contact Brightspeed support

3. Use alternative communication channels

4. Monitor local news sources

Taking immediate steps during a Brightspeed outage

1. Stay calm and patient

2. Switch to mobile data

3. Maximize offline productivity

4. Stay informed

5. Utilize public Wi-Fi

6. Restart your equipment

7. Contact neighbors or local community

8. Report the outage

Long-term strategies for dealing with Brightspeed outages

1. Backup connectivity options

2. Stay informed about maintenance schedules

3. Explore redundancy solutions

4. Provide feedback to Brightspeed

5. Stay prepared for emergencies

Frequently asked questions about Brightspeed outages

What causes a Brightspeed Internet outage?

How can I talk to a real person at Brightspeed?

Why isn’t my Brightspeed internet working?

Brightspeed Internet plans

Brightspeed Fiber

Resources

Recent Articles

How to choose the right fiber internet speed with Brightspeed

Why is my internet so slow?

What is Fiber Optic Internet and How Does it Work?

How to test your internet speed

Understanding your speed test results

Download speed

Upload speed

Ping (rate)

Jitter

Why to test your internet speed

Experience the Brightspeed difference

Recent Articles

How to choose the right fiber internet speed with Brightspeed

Why is my internet so slow?

What is Fiber Optic Internet and How Does it Work?

The digital divide: Why high-speed internet matters in rural areas

Types of internet in rural areas

Satellite internet

Fixed wireless internet

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) internet

Fiber internet

How to get high-speed internet in rural areas

How to make your internet better in rural areas

Brightspeed Internet rural options

Test your internet speed

Conclusion

Resources

Recent Articles

How to choose the right fiber internet speed with Brightspeed

Why is my internet so slow?

What is Fiber Optic Internet and How Does it Work?

Fiber-optic vs. cable internet connection types

Fiber

How do fiber-optic cables work?

What’s so great about fiber internet?

Cable

^1. Arbanas, Jana; Westcott, Kevin. “Gen Z gamers are poised to shake up the media and entertainment industries for good,” Fortune. Retrieved 7 February 2023 from https://fortune.com/2021/04/19/gen-z-gamers-video-games-media-entertainment-outlook-changes-future/