Ask your provider…Do you really have Fiber-to-the-Home?

Throughout our 45 years of experience, we’ve seen providers say just about anything to win business, which is why you and your community have the right to understand the services offered to you. Many providers claim they have fiber, but do they really?

The truth is they may have some fiber, but what you want is ALL fiber because these networks have greater capacity and significant functional benefits compared to Hybrid Fiber Cable networks.

Did you know? Internet plans advertised with one speed, for example, 300 Mbps, are generally advertised based on the download speed only. A true fiber network should have symmetrical speeds. This means that both the upload and download speeds are the same. For example, 300 Mbps x 300 Mbps.

Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial (HFC) is a telecommunications infrastructure that combines optical fiber and coaxial cable technology. If you have HFC, you’ll notice a thicker cable with a usually metallic appearance. HFC cables consist of coaxial cables that look like this:

Limitations of HFC:

Although some providers still use HFC, this network comes with its own set of restrictions, including:

• Susceptibility to interference: Coaxial cables in HFC are more susceptible to electromagnetic interference than optical fibers.
• Vulnerable to damage: HFC cables are more likely to break down from the elements such as heat and water.
• Limited upload speeds: HFC offers good download speeds but has limited upload speeds.
  
  

Download speed refers to how fast you receive information like downloading files and streaming videos. Upload speed refers to how fast you can send data like emails, Zoom, and gaming.

Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) means you have fiber optic cables directly to your home, delivering high-speed, symmetrical internet access. If you have FTTH, you will see a thin, flexible, and transparent cable comprised of a bundle of hair-thin fibers. It does not contain any copper or coaxial components.

Why you need FTTH:

• Security: Unlike cable internet, FTTH isn’t as susceptible to hacking.
• Reliability: FTTH is built underground, so it’s not as vulnerable to harsh weather conditions or even lawnmowers.
• Symmetrical Speeds: Upload and download speeds are faster and clearly advertised as symmetrical. For example, 300 Mbps/300 Mbps.
  

High-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s world. Whether they’re working from home or looking to stream their favorite shows, your residents deserve the reliability and symmetrical speeds that come with FTTH. The best part? As an HOA, you instantly qualify for an upgrade to FTTH at our cost.

Blue Stream Fiber works with board members and property managers to help simplify the process of bringing world-class fiber-to-the-home solutions to their community. To learn more about Blue Stream Fiber, our fiber infrastructure, and whether your community qualifies to have fiber built at our cost, please reach out to 888-960-BULK or visit www.bluestreamfiber.com/communities/new-bulk-services/.