Technology and networks are surrounded by a myriad of concepts that allow us to learn about and discover processes, capabilities and many other possibilities. However, in most cases they are often difficult to understand.
Although we may not have heard of it, it is a key concept when it comes to enjoying the highest Internet speed together with the installation of fiber optics.
FTTH and HFC
Although the possibilities offered by both types of fiber are much more advanced than those of ADSL, between them there are key points that will make us prefer one or the other.
It is important to mention that these two are not the only technologies to bring fiber optics to our home. However, the rest of the alternatives are not so usual and in many cases they are modifications of the main ones.
Let's dig a big dipper into the main differences between FTTH and HFC, getting that even we can find out.
Installation FTTH and HFC
Even though FTTH and HFC are similar, there are some differences too. The first big difference is in how these two types of fiber optics are installed. Each of them is designed in a totally different way and this will mark a key point in our installation.
FTTH installation
In the case of FTTH fiber optic, the installer will connect our house to the box located in the street directly without losing signal along the way. This option would be the one we all prefer, however, we must take into account that the installation is more delicate.
HFC installation
In the HFC installation the cable used is coaxial. A big difference between HFC and FTTH. This cable goes from our community or neighborhood to our home. This connection is less qualified to maintain the same quality and is therefore less recommended. In many cases users might need to use a signal adapter to maintain its performance.
The cost of deployment is not the same either. FTTH requires access to building verticals, which is the most expensive part of the deployment. HFC, on the other hand, is often installed on facades, which is more convenient and economical.
Differences in speed
Although the speed difference relies on several factors such as the installation that has been made, and the distance, we cannot deny that the result with FTTH will be much better and will allow us to enjoy symmetrical fiber.
Takeaways
To summarize, we can say that FTTH and HFC technologies are both valid and sufficient to provide good performance in wired connections.
If we had to choose the best option here between FTTH and HFC, it would be FTTH. The former technology has more advantages than the second.
The main problem with installing FTTH technology is related to its high costs which prevent its rapid development, unlike HFC, which is cheaper and delivers high speeds.
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