Fiber internet, at its core, relies on fiber optic cables, which physically resemble a thin strand of fishing line or a strand of human hair.
While the actual fiber optic cable itself is incredibly thin, the overall installation and setup involve more than just the cable. Here's a breakdown of what you might see:
- Fiber Optic Cable: This is the heart of the system. As mentioned, it's a very thin, flexible strand of glass or plastic through which data is transmitted as light pulses. This strand is typically housed within protective layers.
- ONT (Optical Network Terminal): This is a device installed in your home or business that converts the light signals from the fiber optic cable into electrical signals that your devices can understand. It's usually a small box mounted on a wall.
- Router: Similar to traditional internet setups, you'll likely need a router to distribute the internet signal wirelessly (Wi-Fi) and to wired devices via Ethernet cables. The router connects to the ONT.
- Cables and Connectors: Expect to see some standard cables used for connecting the ONT to the router and your devices to the router. These will likely include Ethernet cables and power cables.
In summary, while the fiber optic cable itself is tiny, the overall fiber internet setup includes the cable, an ONT to convert the signal, a router to distribute the internet, and the necessary cables for connection. The fiber cable is so thin, but powerful for the speed that comes from the cable.
