UTOPIA University: Top 10 Fiber Internet Myths Debunked
This month, we’re going over the top 10 fiber myths because some of these are way past their expiration date. Let’s dive in!
Myth 1: Fiber-optic cables are a fire hazard
Many people hear fiber and instantly think of fire hazards. The thing is, fiber uses light to transfer data, meaning there is no electricity. No electricity means no heat, and no heat means there is no risk of a fire. Next myth!
Myth 2: Getting Fiber installed is super complicated
We understand that we may be new to your city, and you’re thinking that getting fiber is just too complicated. However, if the fiber has already been installed in your neighborhood, getting the fiber from the curb to your home is just as easy as establishing a copper connection. You can check out our installation process here!
Myth 3: Fiber internet is less dependable than copper
Copper wires are not fans of bad weather; they get brittle and they break. Fiber? Not so much. Since fiber lines are made of glass strands, not copper wires, they are less likely to be affected by changing weather conditions. Next myth!
Myth 4: Fiber is TOO expensive
Since fiber is a new technology, it is easy to assume that it is out of your price range. The truth is that many fiber internet plans offer budget-friendly options. On UTOPIA Fiber’s network, we offer several different ISPs with reasonable prices.
Myth 5: Fiber cables can’t bend
Fiber is meant to flex. It’s made with protective layers that make it both durable and bendable.
Myth 6: Fiber isn’t THAT much faster than copper
A lot of people say fiber isn’t that much faster than copper. Well, let’s talk some numbers here to prove that it is FALSE! On your standard copper connection, you can get up to 300 Mbps per second. In theory, you can get up to 10 Gbps if you’re willing to pay for it. On your standard fiber connection you can get 250 Mbps and up to 10 Gbps of speed no problem, and on top of that, you’re getting symmetrical speeds. Which means you’re uploading and downloading at the same speeds.
Myth 7: Fiber internet isn’t widely available
Fiber internet is growing all across the country. Even if it’s not available in your neighborhood yet, we are rapidly expanding. Many cities in Utah are investing in fiber infrastructure due to its reliability and speed. Plus, a lot of networks, like UTOPIA Fiber, are building out infrastructures to bring fast, reliable speeds to residential and business customers everyday.
Myth 8: Fiber is only useful for BIG businesses
Fiber internet is largely associated with large corporations and tech companies, due to its reliability and speed. Many residential customers already use fiber for their everyday needs such as working from home, gaming, and streaming. With a variety of affordable plans, the everyday household can have the reliability and speed that businesses can. Next myth!
Myth 9: Switching to fiber means replacing all my devices
Some people worry that switching to fiber means that they’re going to have to upgrade all of their devices: computers, phones, routers, etc. This is simply not the case. Most modern devices are already compatible with fiber internet speeds. In many cases you just need a router that can handle the fiber speeds. If you have a router and you’re unsure if it will work with the system, just give us a call at customer service (801) 613-3880. If you would like any ideas of what routers will work, we do have a few suggestions on our website.
Myth 10: Fiber internet is only for tech savvy users
Some people hear about fiber internet and they think you have to be a tech genius to use it. However, that is not the case. Fiber works just like any other internet except faster, more reliable, and less frustrating. You don’t need to configure anything complicated, you don’t have to decode tech language, and you don’t have to have a PhD in wifi. Just use it and have fun!
We hope this clears up some of the myths about fiber internet. Stay tuned for next month’s UTOPIA University post!
Watch this episode here: