What is fiber optic Internet and how it can save you during power outages

In today's world, access to the Internet has become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Thanks to the network, we can work, study, communicate with friends and family, make purchases, get information and have fun.

However, during the power outage, Ukrainians faced the fact that neither communication nor WiFi works. That is why OBOZ.UA has prepared an article on what fiber optic Internet is and how it will help to cope with this problem.

One of the fastest and most reliable ways to connect to the Internet is fiber optic communication. This technology, which provides high-speed Internet, is becoming increasingly popular and accessible to the general population.

What is fiber optic Internet?

Fiber optic Internet is a type of Internet connection that uses optical fibers to transmit data. Unlike traditional copper cables, optical fibers consist of thin strands of glass or plastic that transmit data in the form of light pulses. This technology has many advantages, such as high data rates, high bandwidth, and low latency.

Types of fiber optic Internet

There are two main fiber optic Internet technologies: xPON and FTTx. The main difference between them is that the first one has the least number of nodes that need power and implies that providers build a passive network, i.e. one that does not use electrical equipment. The second one is active and depends on electrical equipment that transmits the signal from one place to another.

Will fiber optic Internet save you during a blackout

If the provider powers the equipment with a generator or battery, Ukrainians will be able to stay connected. With FTTx, the Internet will be available for up to 8 hours in the event of a power outage, and with PON technology - about 72 hours if the consumer uses alternative power supply for two devices at home - a router and an ONU, a device that connects your router to the provider's server.

For this reason, back in the fall of 2023, the Ministry of Digital Transformation called on Ukrainians to switch to Passive Optical Network technologies.

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