Does your fiber meet Internet expectations? Why you need a modem upgrade

If you have recently changed internet providers, you can tell that you need a new modem and router. This may surprise many people why you need different devices for the same internet and Wi-Fi service. Okay, this could be due to the type of internet signal you use.

Find out if you really need a new Fiber Internet Modem or Router before dropping another week's worth of gas money on additional Internet appliances.

Crossing your signals

The services on the market can all offer the same product, but their distribution methods are no different. Treat it like a cellphone vs. landline - both allow you to call, though their technology is night and day. To understand why you need different devices for different Internet services, we need to look at how each type of service transmits its signal.

Transmit the dsl signal

The Digital Subscriber Line, DSL, uses copper phone lines to stream internet services. Although it is one of the most basic forms of Internet technology, DSL is still widely used and provides excellent speed and quality in most areas.

Even if the signal is sent to your phone line, you do not have a working phone line to work with DSL. This type of Internet is more advanced than dial-up and can transmit signal over the copper phone line at speeds of more than 100 Mbps. However, the average DSL service comes in at seven to 25 Mbps.

DSL Internet requires a modem to deliver Internet signals to your computer. If you want Wi-Fi, you also need a wireless router.

Cable internet signal transmission

Cable Internet is another widespread option for high-speed Internet, and often similar to DSL services. Cable does not use internet copper lines, but uses cable lines to provide the fastest average speed of the Internet.

Like the DSL, cable internet requires a modem and a router, although most cable internet companies connect these two devices with a gateway. For example, Xfinity's xFi Gateway integrates modems and routers into one compact unit to take up less real estate in your home. This reduces the amount of wiring and extra connections and is easy to install on your own, so you don't have to wait until the technology comes to your home.

However, if there are many people using the Internet in this area or in your home, the overall service quality can be affected. As such, cable internet has a reputation for buffering and latency compared to other types of Internet access. Fiber-Optic is here to protect the Internet.

Transmitting fiber-optic signal

DSL and cable use different technologies to bring Internet access to their homes, so they cannot use the same modem. If you switch between these two types of services, you should invest in new equipment. Cable and DSL can sometimes use the same router, but if you are installing with a gateway, it becomes a moot point.

Fiber-optic Internet still uses a third type of technology to transmit signals. Fiber Internet consists of thin glass pieces that send and receive Internet signals, at its most basic. The glass contains a beam of light that transmits data. This state-of-the-art method affects the need for fiber-optic service for devices including cables, modems and routers. Without a fiber-compatible modem, the fiber-optic internet service will not work.

So, do you need a new fiber internet modem?

Since fiber internet is not affected by the decline of copper phone lines or crowded cable lines, it transmits more data faster than DSL or cable. So, getting a fiber-compatible modem will give you the best experience.

Some providers will certify that any modem works, and if this is true, you may not be able to take full advantage of your fiber service unless you invest in a fast-paced Internet modem. Can support. As we work on it, check out our list of recommended routers to make sure your Wi-Fi is on and you're getting the most out of your fiber service.