AI is changing how we handle everyday internet use. AI search assistants, text and image generators, and AI-powered devices and apps are exciting developments that will change how we function at work and at home.

These changes also raise questions. One of those questions is how AI usage could slow the internet down. What changes will we need to make to accommodate this technology?

In short, AI itself doesn’t slow down the internet. However, increased data usage can contribute to congestion if your network doesn’t have enough bandwidth capacity. If you do notice your device slowing down while using AI to generate content online, it may have more to do with the device than AI.

Let’s dive in.

Does AI use a lot of internet bandwidth?

If you’re using AI in your browser to generate text or search answers to questions, you won’t be consuming much bandwidth. More intensive tasks, like creating images or songs, will take more time. Usually, you’ll notice that the AI generator takes longer when the request is more complicated.

Read more: Translating tech: data caps, bandwidth and bandwidth throttling

Can AI cause network congestion?

Network congestion occurs when too many people are online at the same time. Congestion can also occur when an internet service provider (ISP) has to limit (throttle) bandwidth to ensure there’s enough to go around.

If AI usage leads to more internet use, it’s possible that ISPs will see a strain on capacity, which can translate to slower connections. It is up to ISPs to plan for this growth. Ziply Fiber’s internet plans have no data caps, so customers won’t experience slowdowns even if capacity increases.

Read more: What is network congestion and how can I fix it?

Cloud vs. apps

Software that uses a lot of memory can slow your system down to the point where the device gets hot and it’s making an audible whirring sound. That won’t happen when you’re using an AI tool in a web browser, because all the data is being transmitted offsite in the cloud at a data center. If you’re using a web-based AI tool for work or school and it starts slowing down, contact your IT team, as it could be related to a security function or something going on in the internal network.

The difference between fiber and cable internet for AI use

AI is likely going to increase, putting more strain on networks to handle more data. Cable ISPs may face more challenges, since cable internet connections are shared among neighborhoods, which limits the amount of bandwidth available. Cable also provides slower upload speeds, which could cause tasks to take longer.

Fiber internet offers symmetrical upload/download speeds. Fiber connections are built with more capacity, which helps them handle congestion better. Fiber internet is well suited to AI use, because fiber networks have more headroom to accommodate increased data usage.

Read more: Why fiber-to-the-home matters

What actually makes your internet slow?

Network congestion, distance from the router, old equipment, legacy cable equipment and low-speed plans are the most common reasons for slow internet speed. If you have a fiber-optic connection that is lagging, try the following things to see if it improves:

  • Restart your modem or ONT and router and WiFi extenders if you have any. The simplest way is to unplug them from the wall for a minute and plug them back in.
  • Check that your equipment is up to date. You can ask your ISP to check your connection from their end, and they can run software updates or reset the connection if they notice a problem.
  • Move closer to the router or install WiFi extenders to expand coverage.
  • Upgrade your internet plan to get faster speeds, especially if multiple people in your household use the internet simultaneously.

How to prepare for an AI world

AI shouldn’t cause significant challenges for internet speed. It can increase internet traffic and data usage, but unless it starts to cause significant congestion, it shouldn’t have an impact on the connection. If you’re using an AI-intensive app, that can affect your system’s speed, but that’s a device capacity issue, not an internet bandwidth issue. Fiber ISPs are prepared for the demands of the future, so if you haven’t switched yet, consider upgrading.

Visit ziplyfiber.com to learn more.