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Why is fiber internet better than cable?

Fiber Basics

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Cable was designed for voice and TV, not internet. With fiber internet, data is delivered through light-speed signals over fiber-optic lines. Fiber-optic lines use thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data using light, which allows for significantly faster, more reliable and more secure data transmission compared to traditional copper-based cables used in cable internet. This means that fiber internet can deliver download and upload speeds that are much faster and more consistent than cable internet.

With cable internet, upload speeds are significantly slower than download speeds – holding back live-streaming TV, video calling, gaming, uploading photos and more. With fiber internet, upload and download speeds are equal and faster. Cable internet also uses a shared bandwidth, often leading to peak-hour slowdowns. With Lumos Fiber Internet, you get a dedicated line running right to your door.

And that’s not all! Fiber internet offers environmental benefits, too. Unlike DSL or coaxial cables that rely on copper, fiber-optic lines require fewer non-renewable natural resources to manufacture. In fact, they’re made from two incredibly abundant elements: silicon and oxygen. How cool is that?

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Related Questions

1. Prepaid Mastercard: Eligible orders of 1 Gig may receive virtual $300 Prepaid Mastercard. Eligible orders of 2 Gig – 8 Gig may receive virtual $400 Prepaid Mastercard. Virtual card is issued by Pathward®️, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used where Debit Mastercard is accepted online, for phone/mail orders, or in stores that accept mobile wallet. Customers will be eligible to redeem the gift card 120 days after installation and must redeem it within 60 days of redemption eligibility. Once redeemed, the gift card will expire 180 days from the date of redemption, after which unused funds will be forfeited. Terms and conditions apply. Customer must be current on their bill and in good standing.

2. 100% Fiber Optic network not available in all areas. Internet speeds are up to the maximum advertised upload and download speed available based on a wired connection. Wired and wireless speeds may vary by location and are not guaranteed.

3. Free installation is available on select tiers and will vary by market.

4. Taxes, fees, and surcharges are extra and subject to change at any time. Rates require purchase of listed services as described. Limited-time offer; subject to change or end without notice. Offer not valid with any other offer or promotion. Offer is only available to new residential accounts in select Lumos markets where fiber is available. Downgrades from existing plans with Lumos will not qualify for discounts. Services are subject to all applicable service terms and conditions found at lumosfiber.com, subject to change at any time. Equipment and additional services are extra. Service not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved.

5. Free Enhanced Parental Controls powered by ExperienceIQ®️ service available on select tiers and will vary by market.

6. Free Total Home Wi-Fi is available on select tiers and will vary by market.

7. Taxes, fees, and surcharges are extra and subject to change at any time. Rates require purchase of listed services as described. Limited-time offer; subject to change or end without notice. Offer not valid with any other offer or promotion. Offer is only available to new residential accounts in select Lumos markets where fiber is available. Downgrades from existing plans with Lumos will not qualify for discounts. Services are subject to all applicable service terms and conditions found at lumosfiber.com, subject to change at any time. Equipment and additional services are extra. Service not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved.

8. Prepaid Mastercard: Eligible orders may receive virtual $50 Prepaid Mastercard. Virtual card is issued by Pathward®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used where Debit Mastercard is accepted online, for phone/mail orders, or in stores that accept mobile wallet. Customers will be eligible to redeem the gift card 90 days after installation and must redeem it within 60 days of redemption eligibility. Once redeemed, the gift card will expire 180 days from the date of redemption, after which unused funds will be forfeited. Terms and conditions apply. Customer must be current on their bill and in good standing.

9. One month of free service eligible on 500 Mbps – 2 Gig fiber internet orders only, offer will vary by market. Credit will be applied within first four billing cycles. Regular rates or promotional rates apply outside of the one-month discount.
(Legacy/Universal)