Fiber optic networks are being built all over the country that enable download speeds in the gigabit range. Internet connections with only 8 or 16 Mbit/s no longer meet today’s requirements. But do you really need the gigabit? Probably not, but you should still consider a fiber optic connection.
According to measurements by the Federal Network Agency, the data volume in the German fixed network has been growing by a third every year since 2014. While nine years ago there were still 34 gigabytes per connection, last year it was already over 300 gigabytes – mainly caused by streaming services such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, but also by the increased use of video conferences over the Internet. Forecasts assume that the volume will more than double within the next two years. This is one of the reasons why people are talking more and more about the fiber optic network. But when does such a connection really become worthwhile?
Fiber optics offer new applications and more data volume
The growth in data volumes is one of the drivers behind fiber optic networks being built across the country in recent years. Future applications – such as autonomous driving, telemedicine or virtual reality (VR) – will accelerate this growth. Such applications need fast connections that transmit data in a few milliseconds. The new 5G mobile communications standard can only develop its potential if the radio masts are connected with fiber optics.
But what does this have to do with surfing the internet within your own four walls? VR glasses are only used by hardcore gamers, Netflix and Co. run smoothly and you still can’t avoid a visit to the doctor. Do I need a fiber optic connection? Everyone will immediately answer the question with yes if the DSL line does not provide more than 16 Mbit/s. But the (digital) world looks different via VDSL with 50 or 100 Mbit/s. There is even more high speed via the TV cable network. You can also use this to surf the Internet at 1 Gbit/s.
Also interesting: How can tenants get fiber optics at home?
No more up to bandwidths
The problem is that the contracts for a DSL or cable internet connection only specify maximum download speeds – the famous “up to”. In the rarest of cases the speed is actually achieved. Cable Internet customers in particular are familiar with the problem: In the evening, when a lot of households surf the cable network, the Internet is slow. In the cable network, several households always use one data line. The network operators are trying to reduce the number of households, but technically it will remain the case that several customers will always share a line.
This is different in a fiber optic network. Each house or apartment receives its own fibers through which the data volume is transported to a central technology point, the so-called Point of Presence (PoP). This ensures that every customer receives exactly the bandwidth that is stated in the contract – constant, around the clock. Up to speeds are a thing of the past with a fiber optic connection.
Fiber optic connection to the house – it can be expensive later
But even if the surfing speed via DSL or the TV cable network is sufficient for your own use, it may make sense to opt for a fiber optic connection now. In order to attract as many customers as possible to the new fiber optic networks, network operators often offer the connection free of charge or in conjunction with a two-year contract.
But anyone who lets the construction crews pass by without doing anything may have to dig deep into their pockets later – if they even get a second chance. There are too few construction companies that offer fiber optic connections. This increases construction costs. It is therefore unlikely that a network operator will return after completing a fiber optic project. If he does do this to further expand the fiber optic network, the house connection is usually no longer free. This will cost you up to 2,000 euros.
Happy is the one who can choose
Sure: The internet tariff for fiber optic is more expensive, but this contract can also be canceled after two years. After all, the DSL line or the TV cable network is still there, so a return is possible. And if you notice that Netflix starts to stutter because one person is sitting on the Playstation and another has a video call, then the fiber optic connection is already in the ground. So anyone who has the opportunity and opportunity to have a fiber optic connection installed should definitely do so.