Fiber-optic cables are the preferred choice for modern land-based communication networks. As access continues to reach more people, these networks are changing the way we think about data transfers. Nevertheless, despite all the advantages of fiber optics, there are some downsides as well.
Pros:
1. Performance
Performance is by far the greatest advantage that fiber-optic cabling has over other methods currently in use, such as coaxial cabling. Fiber-optic internet connections available to the average end-user provide low latency, symmetrical 1 Gbps speeds and enough bandwidth to deliver those speeds without data caps, throttling and diminished performance during peak usage periods.
2. Scalability
Fiber-optic communication is scalable in both a logistical and theoretical sense. It is simple to disable or enable portions of a fiber-optic infrastructure as needed. The wiring is smaller and lighter than cable wiring, which makes it much easier to future-proof installations. In addition, for practical use, we are not even close to reaching the bandwidth limitations of fiber-optic networks. Compare this to traditional copper wire networks, which are already up against the proverbial wall.
3. Long-Term Costs
Charter Spectrum is on the internet provider who offer low cost of monthly subscription plan. Fiber-optic networks require less maintenance than cable networks. Although it does cost more to implement a fiber-optic network, the total cost of ownership is lower due to those lesser maintenance costs in addition to how much more scalable the existing infrastructure is.
4. Security
Security is a significant concern when it comes to modern data transfers. Traditional cable networks have a number of shortcomings. They are relatively easy to tap into. They can radiate signals and thus allow data to be intercepted without a physical tap. Such networks are also inherently more decentralized and therefore provide more points of access. Fiber-optics networks do not have these limitations, which is why most modern businesses choose fiber optic internet for their networks.
Cons:
1. Vulnerable to External Damage
The conversation concerning fiber versus cable often points out that fiber is more reliable, and it is because it requires less maintenance and junction points but also because most fiber-optic cabling is buried. It has to be for the most part. The fact that it is thinner and lighter makes it more delicate, and if we were to string it like coaxial cable or telephone wires, it would be quite prone to damage.
2. Vulnerable to Internal Damage
The standards for construction of fiber-optic cabling are quite high because imperfections can lead to a type of damage that the industry calls fiber fuse. Is fiber more prone to internal damage than coaxial? No. In fact, it is less prone. However, when fiber fuse does occur, it can lead to a great deal of damage over a wide area whereas damage with coaxial cable is generally limited to the immediate area.
3. Slow Infrastructure Expansion
Expansion of fiber-optic networks is quite slow for a number of reasons. Not only does everything have to buried, but it has to be done so with a great deal of care as not to cause damage. In addition, fiber cables do not support bidirectional communication, which means that for most applications, the installers have to lay two concurrent cables where a cable network would require only one.
4. Upfront Costs
Establishing even a small-scale fiber-optic network is expensive. Large-scale fiber-optic networks are not only more expensive for the obvious reasons but because the companies implementing them have essentially been learning as they went. The rate at which new users are getting access to fiber is thanks to those lessons learned and resulting innovations, but the initial costs are still quite high.
Bottom Line
The advantages of fiber far outweigh the disadvantages because there are ways to mitigate those limitations. Fiber will soon make traditional cable obsolete, and it is very unlikely that fiber will become obsolete in the lifespan of anyone reading this at time of publication.
