A Guide to Internet Connection Types & Speeds
FIBER INTERNET (LIGHTENING FAST)
Fiber optic internet provides the fastest connection speeds available, reaching up to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gig) or even faster. Due to its superior bandwidth and low latency, fiber is ideal for households with multiple users demanding high-speed Internet, including:
- families streaming multiple videos concurrently
- avid gamers, remote workers
- and anyone who frequently downloads large files.
Fiber's exceptional performance ensures a smooth and lag-free experience for all online activities.
CABLE INTERNET (SUPER FAST)
Cable internet utilizes existing coaxial cable infrastructure, the same network used for cable television. Service providers can offer speeds up to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gig) to individual homes. However, cable internet typically operates on a shared network, meaning multiple households within the same area share the available bandwidth. This shared nature can lead to congestion during peak usage times, resulting in slower speeds, a phenomenon known as throttling. This occurs when a large number of users in the neighborhood are simultaneously online, demanding significant bandwidth.
SATELLITE INTERNET (FAST)
Tech Times says average Starlink download speeds can reach 115.22 Mbps, surpassing the national average by approximately 80%. However, potential users should be aware that the necessary hardware costs close to $600 upfront.
Starlink's upload speeds typically range from 5 to 20 Mbps.
- Standard (Fixed) Plan: 5-10 Mbps upload
- Priority (Fixed) Plan: 8-25 Mbps upload
These are general ranges, and actual speeds may vary depending on location, time of day, and network congestion.
FIXED WIRELESS INTERNET (HIGH-SPEED)
Nemont offers Wireless Internet, a cutting-edge fixed wireless access solution, as an alternative for areas lacking fiber connectivity. This technology provides symmetrical speeds up to 100 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload, ensuring fast and reliable Internet for both downloads and uploads. Unlike fiber installations, Nemont's Wireless Internet service involves no upfront costs, making it an accessible and cost-effective option for many.
DSL INTERNET (SPEEDY)
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Internet utilizes existing copper telephone lines to deliver internet service. Download speeds vary significantly, ranging from 1 to 100 Mbps, depending on the specific DSL technology employed and the distance between your location and the service provider's equipment. While DSL connections can be either symmetric or asymmetric, a key factor influencing speed is the distance from the service provider. The further the distance, the slower the internet speeds.
5G CELLULAR INTERNET (SPEEDSTER)
5G cellular networks operate on a shared infrastructure, where multiple users within a specific cell tower's coverage area share the available bandwidth. To qualify as a 5G network, a base station must theoretically support peak download speeds of 2.5 Gbps and peak upload speeds of 1.25 Gbps. However, it's crucial to note that these are peak speeds, and individual mobile users will rarely, if ever, experience such high speeds in real-world conditions. According to Tom's Guide, the highest average 5G speed across the top four US carriers (AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon) currently stands at 75.6 Mbps per connection.