Imagine this: you're streaming your favorite show, someone's in the other room on a Zoom call, your kid's gaming online with friends and you're still downloading a huge work file all at the same time. But instead of buffering, lagging or dropped connections, the connection is smooth and fast.
What is Gig speed?
Gig speed internet refers to a network connection that delivers a provisioned speed of 1 gigabit per second (Gbps). To put that into perspective, 1 gigabit equals 1,000 megabits (Mbps). Compare this to older DSL or cable connections that might max out around 100 Mbps, and it's clear: Gig speed internet is about 10 times faster.
This kind of speed is delivered through thin fiber-optic lines, which use light signals to transmit data. Unlike traditional copper wiring, which can slow down due to electrical interference or distance from a network hub, fiber-optic lines maintain their speed and quality even over long distances. So, whether you're working from a remote location or in the heart of a city, fiber-optic internet is the fastest and most reliable option available.
Is Gig speed internet right for your needs?
Okay, so Gig speed internet is really fast. But do you really need all that speed? Well, let's consider some common scenarios where Gig speed makes all the difference.
- Multiple devices: The average U.S. household owns around 21 connected devices, according to ConsumerAffairs. Phones, tablets, smart TVs, gaming consoles, laptops, smart thermostats and even basic appliances, like refrigerators and washing machines, connect to the internet. And with everyone doing something different at the same time, slower internet just won't cut it.
- Streaming in HD or 4K: Streaming services offer shows and movies in ultra-high definition (4K). While high-definition streaming needs around 5 Mbps, 4K streaming demands up to 25 Mbps per device. If multiple people in your home are streaming at the same time, Gig speed ensures that everyone gets a smooth, buffer-free experience.
- Online gaming: Gamers know all-too-well the pain of lag. When your connection can't keep up, it's game over. Gig speed internet reduces latency (the time it takes for data to travel from your device to the game server and back). So, whether you're playing Fortnite or exploring the vast world of Elden Ring, you'll gain a competitive edge with Gig speed.
- Work from home: If you work from home, you're likely on a regular schedule of video calls. Gig speed makes video conferencing seamless, even with multiple people on the same connection. It also helps with large file uploads and downloads, especially if you work in data-heavy industries like graphic design, video production or software development.
- Smart homes: The rise of smart home devices means more data is being used all the time. From smart security cameras to AI-driven assistants, these devices are constantly communicating with servers in the cloud. Gig speed internet can handle the load easily, keeping your smart home running smoothly.
It's also important to remember that the provisioned speed—the speed you sign up for—slows down as soon as it routes to the WiFi. Only a wired Ethernet connection will get you the speed you purchased. So, you may want to sign up for a slightly higher speed to ensure everyone has fast, smooth connectivity all the time.
Speed up your connection even more
Why stop at Gig speed?
Ziply Fiber offers symmetrical speeds beyond a Gig. Serious gamers, content creators and tech enthusiasts use our 2 Gig and 5 Gig plans for mega-fast speeds and high bandwidth. Beyond that, we offer 10 Gig and even 50 Gig—the fastest home internet speed in the country.
Will those speeds make it to every corner of your house? Is it worth it to upgrade to ultra-fast internet if it won't even reach your office?
Now, with WiFi 7 on the market, you'll see your internet speed go further. Even without WiFi 7, our Whole Home WiFi solution will install extenders in strategic places, so you're never stuck in a dead zone. WiFi 7 can handle 10 Gig speed, but 50 Gig will need a more serious router.
Learn more about our multi-gig fiber internet plans and WiFi 7.
Clearing up the confusion: Gigs vs. Gs.
Gigs and Gs are not the same, so if you have heard about 5G or 10G connections (usually from a cell phone provider), know that it's referring to the "generation" of broadband networks and not internet speed. In this context, 5 G or 10G refers to their goal of building networks capable of reaching 10 Gbps speeds eventually, but that's not what's available today. It's a marketing term used by the cable industry to refer to a future upgrade of their networks.
In short, 10 Gig internet is a real, available speed, and you can get it today through providers like Ziply Fiber.
Why Ziply Fiber?
At Ziply Fiber, we're not just offering Gig speed internet. We're offering the future. Our network is built for speed, reliability and affordability. With speeds up to 50 Gig available, we have a plan for every kind of online enthusiast, from casual browsers to serious gamers and content creators.
Plus, we're all about making sure you get the best value. Our fiber-optic internet plans are competitively priced, and we've invested in creating a network that will serve communities for decades to come. No more waiting for technology to catch up.
At Ziply Fiber, you're not just keeping up with the times; you're ahead of them.
