Once it reaches a neighborhood, the fiber terminates at a node where data is switched from optic signal to electrical signal for transmission over existing coaxial copper television networks. In this type of network, most of the distance between the provider and consumer is covered by high-speed fiber optic cables. As of 2016, their fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) is available in select areas and scheduled to expand based on consumer demand.Ĭable broadband, WOW!’s most prevalent option, is usually delivered via hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) networks. WOW! offers a variety of broadband connection types, including cable, DSL, fixed wireless, and fiber, often bundled with cable television and phone offerings. Unfortunately, they aren’t widely available due to the high costs associated with running fiber optic cable. This network structure is preferred over hybrid networks. In the case of FTTH installation, fiber optic cable is run directly to consumers residences or businesses. By using this network structure, Comcast and other cable providers are able to take advantage of their existing coaxial infrastructure to offer competitive broadband speeds at a lower up-front installation cost to the company. In short, HFC networks deliver a fiber optic connection to a node within a neighborhood, which then branches off to service 25-2000 homes.

Hybrid Fiber Coaxial (HFC) networks are used globally by cable providers to deliver broadband internet access to consumers. They are also rolling out fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) installations in some regions. Xfinity by Comcast offers Internet, TV, and phone service to consumers primarily via their hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) network.

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