Digital information is available in all corners of the world due to the implementation of technologies such as ADSL and fiber optics. Therefore, you are probably wondering what are the differences between ADSL connections and fiber optics? We invite you to read this article so that you know the particular attributes of these two technologies.
What are the differences between ADSL and fiber optic connections?
Before you know the differences between ADSL and fiber optic connections, it is convenient that you understand what each of them is based on. Next, we explain through this article what ADSL is and what a fiber optic connection consists of.
What is ADSL?
ADSL comes from the Anglo-Saxon language for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line, which in our language would be Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. It allows access to the internet through data transfer at high speeds.
This technology facilitates the sending of data through broadband in a way superior to what happens with a modem since it prevents the transfer of voice (telephone calls) if the data is transferred at the same time during navigation.
To prevent such an obstacle in the network, the ADSL connection avoids signal distortion by means of a filter or Splitter that separates the two signals. Also in relation to this, it is possible to improve the noise/attenuation of an ADSL line.
What is fiber optics?
Optical fiber is a cable composed of a transparent and flexible fiber made of glass or plastic. The optical fiber works with light pulses that are transmitted to the ends of the fiber (photodiode). The equipment interprets these impulses as zeros and ones and thus the information is created.
One of the most outstanding qualities of fiber optics is the high bandwidth it offers, which can reach up to 1 Terabyte per second. It also highlights the flexibility of the fiber and its low weight as well as the security of the information.
Either way, you must bear in mind that there are different types and characteristics of fiber optics beyond what we will mention below.
Differences between ADSL connection and fiber optics
Now that you know each of these connections, the time has come to find out how they differ so that you can make your own conclusions based on the particular utility of each of these technologies.
In terms of coverage and speed, ADSL is slower than fiber optics. In this regard, optical fiber achieves speeds between 50 Mb and 1 TB, while ADSL can reach up to 30 Mb. The difference in this regard is remarkable.
In any case, the truth is that there are many technologies related to networks, for example, it may be interesting to know what the Hybrid Fiber Coaxial Network is and how it works. Without further ado, let’s continue with the comparison between André SL and fiber optics.
Material
Regarding the material, it can be said that ADSL is much more robust than fiber optics. ADSL uses copper cables while optical fiber is made up of fiberglass or plastic that makes it lighter and more flexible.
Connection quality
Regarding the quality of the connection, ADSL can provide a quality in low and middle range while the optical fiber provides a high quality with a guaranteed speed. This attribute is very important for Internet users.
Coverage
In relation to coverage, ADSL has managed to expand in small populations so its use is very wide. On the other hand, fiber optics is not yet used in hard-to-reach places because it is still under development. Indeed, fiber optics is not available in small towns.
Symmetry
There is another difference regarding symmetry. ADSL is asymmetric and fiber optics can be symmetrical by allowing multiple actions on the network such as uploading large files and making video calls; it can also be asymmetric with an upload speed ranging from 5 Mb to 100 Mb depending on the type of connection.
If you are interested in learning more about symmetry and asymmetry. Remember that you can inform yourself directly about what is symmetric fiber and the differences with optical fiber, to learn more in relation to these networks.