Common Terminology
Connecting your home and devices to the internet is very straightforward, but some of the common terminology used might make it seem more complicated than it is. Here's a little cheat sheet to help you speak 'internet' fluently.
Fiber Optic Cable
Fiber is the most advanced telecommunications technology available, providing lightning-fast download and upload speeds. Ashland’s Fiber Network consists of over 40 miles of fiber optic cable and 119 miles of coaxial cable. Fiber-optic cables carry information between two places using entirely optical (light-based) technology. An Optical fiber is a flexible, transparent fiber made of high-quality glass (silica) and is slightly thicker than a human hair. It either functions as a waveguide or light pipe that transmits light between two ends of the fiber or fiber cable.
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cable is a transition line that consists of a tube of electrically conducting material surrounding a central conductor held in place by insulators. Its applications include feedlines connecting radio transmitters and receivers with their antennas, computer network (Internet) connections, digital audio (S/PDIF), and distributing cable television signals.
Cable Modem
A cable modem is a hardware device that allows your computer to communicate with an Internet service provider over a landline connection. It converts an analog signal to a digital signal for the purpose of granting access to broadband Internet. We can provide a cable modem. Please call us for more information.
The following cable modems are compatible with the AFN infrastructure:
- Arris SB6190: This modem is compatible on all nodes.
- Hitron CODA-57: This modem is only compatible with the nodes that have been upgraded to DOCSIS 3.1.
Wireless Router
If you want to access the internet wirelessly, then you will need a router. It is very difficult to know which router will perform best in your house as there are many environmental factors that can hinder the wireless signal.
AFN now provides managed wireless router services! For $6.49/month, we will setup and configure the router for you. Our routers include a lifetime warranty. If it fails for any reason, we will replace it free of charge. This service also includes security software built into the router and parental controls. We will also provide free tech support.
Click here to learn more about routers.