About 5.25 billion people across the globe have internet access. The internet taps into all aspects of our life. An average person globally uses the internet for seven hours every day. The performance of our internet connection is crucial to us. Nobody wants to deal with a slow and unreliable internet service. There are several types of internet connections. The type of connection determines internet speed and performance.
If you have been searching for a reliable internet service provider, consider choosing Cox communications. With Cox, you can enjoy high-speed internet for seamless browsing, endless gaming, and the ultimate internet experience. There are multiple Cox Internet plans to choose from. You can select one that meets your internet needs best. Reach out to their customer service to find out more.
If internet terminologies confuse you and choosing an internet connection seems daunting, you are in the right place. Here is the complete guide to selecting an internet connection that meets your expectations and usage needs.
Cable Internet
Cable internet is the most prevalent and widely accessible type of internet connection. Fiber optic connections offer better speed potential and a more reliable internet connection than cable internet. However, the cable is perhaps the second fastest option you can get.
There are different cable TV speed plans you can choose from. Most cable providers offer good download speeds of up to 940 Mbps. However, you will not get good upload speeds with cable internet. This can be a problem if you are a creator who needs to upload content online. Some noteworthy cable providers include Cox Communications, Optimum, Spectrum, etc.
Pros
- Widely accessible
- Affordable
- Comes with TV and phone bundles
Cons
- Poor upload speeds
- Unreliable in peak internet traffic times
Fiber Internet
Fiber internet is the fastest type of internet technology you can get for your home. Some say it is the best internet connection. Fiber technology transfers data in the form of light signals through thin glass cables. These cable strands are as fine as human hair. With other cable connections, signals may be lost over long distances.
Fiber internet can deliver data a hundred times faster than other internet types. Furthermore, you do not have to worry about compromising on upload speeds as fiber connections offer symmetrical speeds. Some prominent fiber internet providers are AT&T, CenturyLink, and Frontier Fiber.
Pros
- Symmetrical download and upload speeds
- Highly reliable
- Low latency
Cons
- Not widely accessible
Satellite Internet
With a satellite connection, satellite dishes provide internet connectivity. Three satellite dishes are responsible for the operation. One is present with the provider; one is present with you, and the third one is in space. The signal travels from the provider’s end to space and then to your house. Satellite internet can provide internet connectivity to remote areas. Notable satellite internet providers are Hughesnet and Starlink.
Pros
- An improvement over DSL internet
- Available in remote areas
Cons
- High latency
- Unreliable and expensive
- Prone to damage from weather conditions
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Internet Connection
Here are a few factors to consider when selecting an ISP and internet connection.
Cost
Set a budget that is reasonable yet does not put a financial strain on you. Look for an internet plan that offers good value. Do not jump at the cheapest internet plan you get as it might have low data caps and poor speed. Instead, look for the right plan for your internet usage needs.
Usage
Consider your internet usage and choose a connection that best caters to it. If you are a digital content creator, you should look for good upload speeds. If you stream content or game, look for one with good download speeds. Choosing a connection with poor speeds can be a waste of money.
Availability
Not all internet connection types are widely accessible. You might be restricted to a few options. Find out the connection type available to you and get the best internet plan you can.
In Conclusion
It can be difficult finding a reliable internet connection with the best speeds for your internet usage. If the many types of internet connection confuse you, this guide is perfect for figuring out which one to choose.
