Type the words “faster internet speeds” into your browser and you’ll see a list of providers promising they can meet your needs. In fact many are actively promoting Fall Fiber sales of Multi GB WiFi currently.

Big companies including Verizon, Tachus, Xfinity and Fidium offer guarantees of lag-free gaming, home office solutions, smart home connectivity, etc.  All of this is great news. However, it’s then down to the homeowner to make a decision around which plan to sign up for and often without really understanding what might stand in the way of a multi gigabit fiber service.

Do you know the difference between GB and Multi GB WiFi?

What questions should you be asking yourself and your internet provider?

1. What’s the difference between GB and multiGB?

Put simply, your network connection is measured in speed (or gigabit) per second. Historically this service for residential properties was single gigabit but more recently fiber companies have been heavily marketing access to Multi gigabit (Multi GB) speeds.

Sounds good, right?

Well, it’s great news if you have a Multi GB switch in your home. If not then as soon as your Multi GB speed hits your network equipment, it drops down to the single GB speed the equipment was designed to handle.  If that happens then you’re essentially paying for speeds you’re not actually getting the benefits from.

Here is a better explanation of what we mean. Notice the drop off to single from Multi GB in the second diagram.

Gigabit plan

Multi GB plan WITHOUT a Multi GB switch

2. Who should sign up for a Multi GB internet plan?

Do you have a large home, with hard-wired access points?  If this is the case, then Multi GB is a good idea. Add to that anyone in the home who is a gamer, works from home or has a lot of connected devices and it’s an even better idea.

If you have an Amazon Alexa, mobile devices and a laptop for emails, then you should be good with a regular GB service.

3. What equipment do I need for my Multi GB service to reach its full potential?

Certain devices in your home will benefit from the fastest speeds. These are your WiFi access points and any hard-wired computers where bandwidth is king. If you get that speed to your WiFi network then all your wirelessly connected devices will benefit, so that’s where you’ll need a Multi GB switch.

If you have an existing switch with 24 ports being utilized by hard wired TVs, amplifiers, etc, this doesn’t mean you need a Multi GB switch to directly replace it. We’d recommend getting a Multi GB switch with a few ports which can be used for the WiFi network. The other equipment will be just fine with the drop off to a single GB from the existing switch. It still has a valid role to play in your network set up.

Here’s what we mean.

MultiGB plan WITH a MultiGB switch for certain devices and a standard GB switch for everything else

4. Where should the fiber connection be located?

Most newer homes have conduit pipe which runs from the head end in your home (often a closet where you can see wiring) to the exterior of the home. That’s where you want your fiber connection to be made to any existing network equipment.

If you can’t identify an existing connection point outside then ideally you want the fiber connection to get as close to your equipment head end as possible, as wires may need to be run to that location. Otherwise, you’ll be reliant on their router being installed wherever the fiber tech chooses and end up with a collection of mesh access points dotted around your home, using up valuable power outlets.

Unfortunately, many fiber providers will punch the fiber into the home via the path of least resistance. As the homeowner you do have a say in this and try to direct them as best you can.

At the very least make sure you are shown where the fiber has been punched in on your home and where the router has been installed.

5. What if I have an existing control system but want to change ISP?

If you have a home technology service company, then let them know you’ve scheduled an installation so they can check the connection and make sure everything is working as it should be afterwards.

This is particularly important if you have a control system such as Crestron, Lutron, Savant or Control 4 which is already connected to an existing router with specific router configurations. You will lose this configuration when switching router so it’s important to involve your home technology provider when making these changes.

Need more advice? We have some great info here.

Alternatively call or message us to schedule a free network health check 281 465 9101