As fast fiber-optic internet rolls into the mainstream, many are left asking whether they still require a modem with this improved tech. The short answer to this question is that you do in fact still need a modem to work with fiber internet. For more specifics on why you still need a modem and what kind you’ll require, take a gander at this.
What is Fiber-Optic Internet?
Fiber-optic internet or referred to as fibre-optics relay internet through glass or plastic fibers. It employs pulsing light instead of electrical signals over the usual copper wires that are seen in normal Ethernet cables.
Today, it is possible to access fiber internet at much higher speeds as compared to that of cable and DSL. While the quickest cable Internet may provide an effective speed of approximately 500 Mbps, fiber connections enable the download rates of up to 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) or even more.
Another advantage is that the extent of fiber internet is also more than other internet structures. Compared with the electrical signals which pass through copper wire, the light signals that can be sent through fiber cables can go much farther with little to no loss. This enables the providers of internet to extend the Internet service Provider to more regions with high internet speed.
With fiber internet pervading our homes ad businesses, a significant question pops up- is a modem necessary with fiber broadband internet?
Why Fiber Internet Still Requires Modem
While it is worth mentioning that fiber-optic internet operates in a distinctive manner from the cable or DSL connection, it cannot be employed without a modem.
A modem is a device that connects the internet service provider’s network to your home networking system. It directly receives data from your provider and processes it to make it usable by other devices in your house.
Fiber internet works in a way that the modem transforms light pulses into electrical signals that it conveys over ethernet cables or through Wi-Fi to the devices in your house. Thus, while the technology for transmitting data is different in each case, a modem serves a useful purpose in acting as an interface.
Which Type of Modem Goes Well with Fiber?
As you will learn that fiber-optic broadband works in a different way than cable or DSL, you can’t just plug in your current modem. The fiber internet needs a modem specifically designed to work best with optical signals unlike those designed to work with electrical signals.
Fiber internet does not require a cable modem or a DSL modem like traditional internet service; it has an ONT modem or optical network terminal. This translates the light pulses to actual internet traffic that can be used to facilitate communication processes.
Most providers cable your home to the fiber-optic network, and when they do, they connect an ONT modem. This unit is normally located within or outside the home as the point of termination.
While, some providers let you use your own purchased separate ONT modem, there are some that demand you to rent the ONT hardware.
If your ONT modem is installed outside your home, you generally, plug it to a router inside to broadcast the internet connection wirelessly. They are basically working as a connecting link between the ONT and all the devices used by your family.
Key Takeaways:
- Fiber internet is faster than other forms of internet since it transmits data using fiber optic cables, and not copper cables.
- However, in the case of fiber optics, the transmission technology is different and you again need a modem to translate the optical signals into usable internet.
- ONT modems come specifically to support the fiber optic internet signals as indicated above.
- Some providers deliver and install your own modem ONT while others require you to pay for the use of their approved modem.
But in as much as the speeds get a major boost with fiber internet you find that the need for a modem cannot be over emphasized! An ONT modem serves that same necessary purpose of converting the connection that your provider has given to your home internet traffic. As fiber starts to spread more these modem will assist those households get the most out of their fiber optic internet connection.
Read More:
Why is my fiber internet so slow?
What is the fastest ATT fiber speed?
Do you need a modem with fiber-optic internet?
