A fiber internet connection can offer several benefits to businesses and homeowners. Because this technology is fairly new, you might be unsure if the upgrades outweigh the cost or cons. Even though fiber internet is much newer than broadband internet on copper cable, many users have found substantially higher returns on their investment.

	1. Greater Bandwidth & Faster Speeds Fiber optic cables allow for more bandwidth capacity and carry light to transmit data. This allows fiber optic cables to carry signals at nearly the speed of light—much faster than traditional copper cables. The signal degradation with fiber is also less.
	2. Longer Distances The longer the distance the signal travels on copper or coaxial cable, the lower the bandwidth. Fiber is unquestionably the fastest, most versatile high-speed internet connection, delivering amazing web experience and crystal clear communication.
	3. Better Reliability Fiber is significantly less prone reliability issues related to temperature changes, severe weather and moisture, all of which can hamper the connectivity of copper cable. Plus, fiber does not carry electric current, so it’s not bothered by electromagnetic interference that can interrupt data transmission. It also does not present a fire hazard like old or worn copper cables can.
	4. Thinner and Sturdier Compared to copper cables, fiber optic cables are thinner and lighter in weight. Fiber can withstand more pull pressure than copper and is less prone to damage offering higher stability and fewer interruptions to internet access. Unlike cable, fiber optic technology is less susceptible to corrosion and less prone to power surge interruptions due to lightning and other causes.
	5. More Flexibility for the Future  Fiber optic technology is scalable, providing virtually unlimited bandwidth capacity and supporting large amounts of data to keep up with consumer and technology demands. It can be upgraded by changing the electronics or by using different lasers that can increase bandwidth without changing the fiber itself. That’s why fiber networks are said to be “future proof.”
	6. Lower Total Cost of Ownership Although some infrastructure components may have a higher initial cost than copper, the durability and reliability of fiber can make the total cost of ownership lower. The typical life cycle of a fiber cable is 30-50 years, which is much higher than copper wires, and costs continue to decrease for fiber optic cables and related components as technology advances.

STRATA NETWORKS is the leading telecommunications provider in the Uintah Basin, providing advanced voice, broadband, television, and nationwide wireless services. The company is headquartered in Roosevelt, Utah with a coverage area extending into a tri-state region, serving over 60,000 customers. STRATA celebrates over 60 years of technology expertise, exceptional customer relations, and a devout corporate social responsibility to its community. The company functions as a local cooperative, in which customers can also become member owners of the company who may receive patronage dividends and participate in company voting processes. More information is available at www.stratanetworks.com.