How To Get Fiber Optic Internet In Your Area

The Quest for High-Speed Internet

In the world of technology where everything advances at a rapid pace, speed is everything—especially when it comes to your internet connection. That’s why more people are turning to fiber optic technology, the gold standard of high-speed internet.

Unlike other connection types, fiber optic internet uses light signals to transmit data, powering your network with incredibly fast speeds that make everything from streaming to online gaming and remote work smoother and more efficient.

The speed and reliability of your internet connection make a big difference in your day-to-day activities, whether you’re backing up large files to the cloud, playing online games with friends, streaming the biggest game of the year in 4K, or joining a video conference where you can actually hear everyone. That’s where fiber optic internet shines.

It offers unparalleled bandwidth capacity and unmatched reliability to power all of your connected devices and online activities simultaneously with fewer slowdowns and interruptions.

So, what makes fiber optic internet so special? It all comes down to its unique qualities. Unlike cable, DSL, 5G or satellite connections, fiber consistently delivers symmetrical download and upload speeds, which is essential for those who rely on the internet for their daily activities. Plus, it offers higher speeds than other types of connections, making it the fastest internet technology available today.

If you’ve decided to order fiber optic service for your home, follow the simple steps below to get connected and start benefiting from fiber-fast speeds.

• Do your household members make video or conference calls? If you’ve ever been part of a call with robotic voices or choppy video feeds, you know how important a strong, reliable connection and plenty of bandwidth can be when it comes to collaboration.
  
• Do your household members play online video games? Gaming relies on consistently fast upload and download speeds to accurately send your actions (such as the buttons you click) to the server and other players, and vice versa. Disconnecting for even a few seconds or experiencing lag at the wrong time can make you lose your match. Not to mention, your internet speed determines how fast you can download or patch games.
  
• Do any household members do work or hobbies that require transferring or backing up large files? Examples may include careers in design, videography, photography, sound engineering, social media, streaming, medicine and other fields that utilize large, digitized files.
  
• What is the total number of connected devices in your home? American households had an average of 17 connected devices in 2023, according to Parks Associate. It’s a good idea to count and keep track of how many connected devices you have.
  
  Include everything that uses the internet to function, such as smart TVs, lighting, thermostats, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, pet feeders, speakers, virtual assistants, security systems, doorbell cameras, yard equipment, video game consoles, tablets, streaming sticks, laptops, desktop computers, photography equipment, mobile phones, alarm clocks, projectors, baby monitors and more.
  
• Does your internet slow down when everyone is home? Think about the times when you experience slower internet speeds. Does this typically happen when everyone is home and using their devices at the same time? If so, you may need more bandwidth.
  
• Will you be using the internet more in the future? It’s not just about what you need right now. If you’re planning to add more smart home devices, upgrade your home office, start an online business, or if you simply want to be prepared for evolving tech, it’s smart to choose a plan that can grow with you.

Fiber internet is designed to be scalable, with speed options ranging from 300 Mbps up to multi-Gig connections, so you can start with what works for you now and easily upgrade later.

If you have lots of connected devices or live with multiple people who stream 4K content, play games, or work remotely, you’ll likely benefit from at least a Gig-speed plan. Upload and download speeds of 1,000 Mbps uploads can ensure smooth, uninterrupted performance on your network’s connected devices. While everyone’s internet needs are different, powering your network with at least a Gig of speed can make a big difference during peak usage times.

By taking a closer look at how you use the internet, you can confidently choose a plan that meets your needs today and keeps you ready for whatever comes next.

What if fiber isn’t available in my area?

If fiber optic internet isn’t currently available for your address, it’s still a good idea to contact local providers directly. They may share details about upcoming expansions or suggest alternative solutions. You may also be able to add your name to a mailing list so that you’ll be notified as soon as the service becomes available.

Availability can vary based on factors like urban versus rural locations, existing infrastructure and local regulations. Urban areas tend to have more established infrastructure, which can make fiber easier to install, while rural areas may face higher costs and longer timelines due to the need for more extensive construction.

In the meantime, keep an eye on municipal broadband initiatives or infrastructure projects in your community. Local governments sometimes partner with ISPs to bring fiber to underserved areas, which could expand availability in the near future.

In some cases, community-based solutions—like neighborhood groups advocating for better internet—can help drive fiber installation. If fiber isn’t available where you live, consider joining or starting a local campaign to bring high-speed internet to your area.

Here’s a checklist of considerations to make as you compare plans:

• Get the speed you need. Make sure the plan you choose offers the speeds you need for your daily activities and collection of devices. For example, streaming in 4K, gaming and video calls all require a lot of bandwidth, so look for plans that can handle multiple devices without slowing down. Gigabit-speed (1,000 Mbps) plans are often ideal for data-heavy households, while smaller households may find 200-500 Mbps sufficient.
  
• Verify that the plan’s upload and download speeds are symmetrical. Remember that fiber internet is capable of providing symmetrical speeds, meaning upload and download speeds are the same. This can be a big advantage if you frequently upload content, work from home, play online games or communicate over video calls.
  
• Look for data caps. Some plans might limit the amount of data you can use each month, which can lead to unexpected fees or reduced speeds if you go over. Opt for a plan with unlimited data if possible, especially if your household has many connected devices or does a lot of streaming.
  
• Compare contract terms. Be aware of contract details, including how long you’re committing to the plan and whether there are early termination fees. Some providers may offer month-to-month options, which provide more flexibility if your situation changes.
  
• Calculate long-term pricing after promotional periods. If you’re using a promotional rate or coupon, find out how the pricing will change after the promotional period. The price might increase after the first year or two, so make sure you’re comfortable with the long-term cost.
  
• Check reviews for details about the provider’s customer service and tech support. Reliable customer support is crucial, especially if you encounter issues with your internet connection. Check reviews to see how well each provider responds to service requests and technical support inquiries. Some ISPs offer 24/7 local support, while others have more limited hours.
  
• Review monthly fees and installation costs. When comparing prices, look beyond the monthly rate. Some providers may charge additional fees for equipment rental, network management tools or advanced WiFi routers. These added costs can affect your budget over time. It’s also a good idea to ask about installation fees.
  
  Some providers waive these charges, while others might add them to your first bill. It’s worth checking if there are any promotions or discounts that can offset the cost.
  
• Find out how long you’ll need to wait for the installation appointment. The time it takes to get your fiber internet installed can vary, especially in high-demand areas. If you need internet service quickly, ask about expected wait times so you can plan accordingly.
  
• Ask about throttling policies. Some ISPs may slow down your connection if you exceed a certain amount of data usage or visit certain websites, even if you have a plan that claims to offer high speeds. Look for information on throttling policies in the fine print or ask directly to ensure you’re not caught off guard.

Before making your decision, create a list of your top three priorities (e.g., speed, customer service, no contracts) and see which provider best matches those needs. This way, you can avoid paying for features you don’t need and focus on what matters most to you. By taking the time to compare these features, you can find a fiber internet plan that offers the right mix of speed, service and value for your household.

• Communicate with your technician. On the day of the installation, talk to the technician about the set-up process. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect, including how long the installation might take, any work required on your property and how the equipment will be set up. Knowing these details will help set realistic expectations and reduce surprises.

If your space is large or has multiple floors, consider WiFi extenders or a mesh network to maintain strong connectivity everywhere. Or ask your ISP if they offer home WiFi service. Learn about EPB Smart Net Plus whole-home WiFi.

• Secure your network. Now that your internet speed is faster, it’s crucial to prioritize security. Set a strong, unique password for your WiFi. Regularly update your router’s firmware to protect against vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates when possible so you don’t have to think about it.

It’s also a good idea to enable encryption (like WPA3) to safeguard your data and keep unauthorized users out. You may also want to create a guest network with a separate password for visitors.

Take a moment to appreciate the time and energy you spent selecting the perfect ISP and internet plan for your household. By investing in a reliable fiber internet plan, you’re setting yourself up for long-term value and a superior online experience.

If you live in the Chattanooga area, you may be able to access the World’s Fastest Community-Wide Internet from EPB! Explore 100% fiber optic home internet plans that deliver the fastest speeds available, backed by local, award-winning, 24/7/365 support—no data caps, contracts or installation fees. Find your perfect speed.