Broadband Technology Explained

At Converged Rural Broadband we offer fixed wireless and fibre optic broadband. Both provide high-speed internet, but they differ in how they deliver data.

Fibre optic broadband uses fibre optic cables made of glass or plastic strands to transmit data as pulses of light. These cables provide a direct, physical connection between the internet service provider and the customer, enabling fast and reliable internet speeds. Fibre optic broadband can transmit data at very high speeds and is typically the fastest and most reliable type of broadband available.

Fixed wireless broadband, on the other hand, uses radio signals to transmit data from a fixed antenna on a tower or mast to a receiver on the customer’s property. Contrary to popular belief, adverse weather conditions do not affect the signal and while damage to physical equipment can causes power outages, these affect whole areas regardless of connection type. Fixed wireless broadband relies on line of sight, meaning that there must be a clear path between the tower or mast and the receiver. As such, fixed wireless broadband may be subject to interference from trees, buildings, and other obstacles. Contrary to popular belief though, adverse weather conditions do not affect the signal. Despite this limitation, fixed wireless broadband can still provide high-speed internet access in areas where fibre optic broadband is not available or too expensive to install.

Traditional copper broadband, also known as ADSL, uses copper wires to transmit data over telephone lines. Copper broadband is typically slower and less reliable than fibre optic or fixed wireless broadband, and its performance may be affected by distance from the exchange, the quality of phone lines, and interference from other electronic devices.

In summary, fibre optic broadband offers the fastest and most reliable internet speeds, while fixed wireless broadband provides a high-speed alternative in areas where fibre is not available or too expensive to install. Copper broadband is generally slower and less reliable than both fibre and fixed wireless broadband. The choice between the three depends on individual needs and circumstances, such as location, internet usage requirements, and availability of broadband options.

If you’d like advice about what type of connection would be best for your requirements, give us a call on 01224 571700 or complete our enquiry form and one of our team will come back to you.