Construction Alert

In the last week our Community found door hangers on our front doors announcing: “Gigabit internet is moving here!”.  This construction will be Google Fiber, but I have heard rumors that ATT Fiber will also be coming.  Construction (either company) may “include trenching, attachment to utility poles, and installation of enclosures near the sidewalks.”

I have called Google Fiber a couple of times to get more information but no additional information is available as of today.  

Google Construction:  (877) 454-6959

Website:  www.fiber.google.com

DSL vs Cable vs Fiber

Beyond my questions about the installation of fiber cables under the road, I was curious about what is means for internet service. 

DSL is the oldest method to receive internet.  It utilizes your telephone lines, but it doesn’t interrupt your phone use. 

Cable internet is the most common method today.  It reaches our homes through the existing coaxial cables that TV services uses.

Fiber optic cables (regardless of vendor) will need to be installed.  Fiber sends data at the speed of light, since it is not electricity that is being sent through the lines, but light.

Summary

The website (www.BroadbandNow.com) I reviewed offered this summary.

DSL is best for rural customers who otherwise are stuck with satellite internet.

Cable internet service is the best choice for people who don’t have access to fiber or have no use for lightning-fast speeds. It is also a great option for TV-viewers who can benefit from cost-cutting “cable bundle” plans.

Fiber is the best option for heavy internet users, especially for gamers or those who plan to stream videos on multiple devices simultaneously.