What's the difference between AT&T internet and AT&T fiber?

Posted on: 23 Jul 2024
What's the difference between AT&T internet and AT&T fiber?

AT&T currently has two primary home internet services- namely; AT&T Internet and AT&T Fiber. An important thing to know when comparing these services is that although both allow you to access high-speed internet, there are some notable differences between the two when it comes to speed, technology, access, and prices.

Speed Differences

Another difference between AT&T Internet and AT&T Fiber is that AT&T Fiber has much higher internet speeds. With AT&T Fiber, both download and upload speeds are fast and may range from 1 Gigabit per second. That’s over 10 times faster than AT&T Internet which is the fastest widely available and has a top download speed of up to 100 Megabits per second.

This speed advantage puts AT&T Fiber in a vantage point for the many connected users, devices, and connections in a household. The incredibly high speeds are perfect for content streaming, video gaming, video conferencing, and more, and all these activities can be done without any lags and buffering.

Technical Differences

AT&T Internet is a service provided by the company using the copper wires-based technology known as DSL. This refers to the transmission of information through telephone wires directly to customer premises. Subsequently, and regarding this, although the speeds that have been delivered through DSL have increased over some time due to the upgrading of networks, certain technical issues restrain the maximum achievable speeds.

Whereas AT&T Fiber uses light to send information through a fiber-optic network that is not shared with other utility services. It is a fundamental technology with virtually unlimited bandwidth capacity and with low latency that is nearly constant. Fiber networks tend to be called “future proof” since their potential to add more expandability with increasing data use remains available.

Availability Differences

The fiber and copper networks have been laid in proportions that vary greatly in terms of availability and accessibility across the AT&T service areas. They could only provide slower AT&T Internet services at an address even as their next-door neighbor receives ATT Fiber services.

Fiber internet needs fiber connections to residences and structures, and this is what differentiates it from the rest. Fiber technology is relatively new in the network industry and also requires a lot of time and effort in its deployment. AT&T Fiber service is still available in even fewer neighborhoods and cities but it is growing bit by bit. On the other hand, the extensive copper network that facilitates the AT&T Internet service reaches many more customer locations.

Pricing Differences

As the speed and fiber technology level rises the prices are higher. It is therefore important to note that AT&T Fiber is considerably more expensive than AT&T Internet deals with similar internet speeds and other features. Traditional broadband AT&T Fiber is usually priced at $60 to $80 for gigabit speed while 100 Mbps AT&T Internet costs $45 to $60 per month.

However, the consumer can save more money in the long run if they avail of the promotional discounts or bundle their internet plan with other services from AT&T. AT&T Fiber also does not have any monthly equipment fees which can otherwise contribute to the costs of AT&T Internet plans.

Key Similarities

Nonetheless, the options provided by AT&T have some basic elements that can be compared.
AT&T Fast Facts:

AT&T Internet: Both rely on AT&T gateways for Wi-Fi and service connections within homes, including internet security, television streaming with AT&T TV, and virtual home phones. Calls and online chat, live tech support, steps to connect and order service, as well as price plans and offered services are almost the same both at AT&T Internet and AT&T fiber.

This Is Determined By What Is Best For You

Of the two main internet options available at AT&T, fiber is a superior technology and offers drastically faster speed. However, availability issues make fiber an option that simply cannot be chosen in some cases at the moment. Copper-based internet can still be effective and provide a good connection for many households who are not so demanding with their internet usage.

Consider your home usage – multiple users, different activities, smart home devices, or heavy downloads will be better off with additional speed. Also, think about how many packets make sense and what other discounts or bundles are available. Seeking details for the exact address provides information in the simplest format about plans and costs. While most AT&T internet services have some similarities and differences in infrastructure, the policies of both services may also be somewhat similar. To make sure that you choose the best home internet, it is crucial to check the details according to your location.

Upgrade to faster, more reliable AT&T Fiber Internet today! Call us at +1 844-905-5002 and get connected with speeds that keep you ahead.


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