Why Schools Should Use Fiber Internet

Over the decades, the ubiquity of the Internet has revolutionized education for everyone. The use of fiber optic cables, in particular, has allowed students to download media-rich digital learning materials, upload their assignments, and connect with instructors and classmates.

None of this would be possible without access to a high-speed Internet connection. If your school hasn’t already adopted a fiber optic connection in Bloomington, here are a few reasons it’s time to hop on board.

It’s Easy for Students to Access Learning Material in School

Most students are glued to their smartphones and laptops — and often bring them to school. However, none of the information would be beneficial to them if it loads slowly — students are, after all, always in a hurry.

To this end, fiber optic cables transmit data using light — which is faster than copper wires which rely on electricity. Fiber lines ensure that your students won’t have any problem searching for things online in a jiffy.

Fiber Internet is Future Proof

At any given time, hundreds or even thousands of devices are accessing school networks. This can lead to significant lags if the network infrastructure is using outdated copper-based wiring.

When you also account for the hundreds of IoT devices such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, smart thermostats, and other sophisticated networks, you’re in for massive slowdowns and frequent disruptions. This is why the widespread adoption of fiber Internet is leading the way forward in IoT devices, improved security, and better collaboration.

Fiber Internet is helping schools and universities future-proof their wiring network against an infrastructure backbone of 1 Gbps (or higher) and confidently utilize newer technologies. This provides enough bandwidth for several years to come and can support the use of multiple devices simultaneously.

Seamlessly Use Multiple Devices Simultaneously

There is a limit to how many simultaneous connections a traditional network infrastructure can support at any one time. Hundreds of tablets, phones, and PCs are connected to a school’s network which can result in lags and affect download/upload speeds. By switching to fiber Internet, you can scale your upload capacity capacity and ensure that your network operates smoothly without experiencing any lags — regardless of how many devices are connected to your network.

Faster Upload Times

The upload speed determines how fast students and teachers can upload data from their computers or mobile devices to the Internet. This includes homework assignments, large files such as videos, and the ability to communicate via video conferencing.

Fiber Internet boasts symmetrical upload speeds that match download speeds — which means that students and teachers will have a smoother Internet experience.

High Quality Streaming for Videos and Uploading

Oftentimes, a video demonstration is easier for students to visualize than written information. With fiber optic in your school, teachers will be able to stream high-quality videos in the classroom. A win-win situation for teachers and students alike.

Fiber is More Secure and Safe

The safety of both students and teachers in schools should be a key priority for administrative staff. With the help of fiber optic cables, it is possible to take more protective measures for everyone in the school. For instance, fiber optic cables allow schools to connect security cameras around their buildings. It is also possible for law enforcement agencies to monitor what’s going on at any time.

You can bolster your school’s security by upgrading to fiber-optic connections and working with the local police to thwart malicious activity.

Fiber-optic lines are virtually impervious to the same restrictions as copper wires. This means that outside hackers will find it much more difficult to break into your school’s network and access information they shouldn’t be privy to.

Participate in Global Events Around the World

Thanks to high-speed Internet connections, it is now possible for schools from around the world to transcend geographical boundaries and participate in global events. For instance, students can organize events, competitions, and conferences with peers from across the world. Live streaming is made possible with the help of fiber optic cables.

Reduce Reliance on Textbooks and Supply Costs

These textbooks with colorful media are simply not cheap. It is worth mentioning that most books are getting outdated nearly every six months, requiring a new batch of textbooks for students and teachers. However, schools can substitute textbooks with tablets and laptops to save money in the long run. The use of fiber optics will help these devices perform better. Is your school ready to upgrade to fiber optic Internet? Contact us to find out how you can benefit from them.