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Every proud Star Wars geek can admit to daydreaming about hopping in the Millenium Falcon, kicking it into lightspeed, and setting course for Endor.

While we can’t travel at lightspeed quite yet, with fiber, we’re getting pretty close to communicating at the speed of light. Fiber internet is a complex technology that transmits information via fiber-optics. These high-tech, hair-like strands send data back and forth using lasers and light signals as fast as about 70 percent the speed of light.

In this Tech Tip, we will share a few reasons why fiber may be the best broadband bang for your buck. If you are more of a visual learner, watch our latest Tech Tip video to follow along with tech expert Katie. Let’s get started.

#1 Speed

 Fiber is much faster than even the highest-speed DSL or cable modem speeds, typically by tens or even hundreds of megabits per second. Fiber Internet also allows for what we call “symmetrical speed,” which means the time it takes to upload and download are the same.

#2 Reliability

 Traditional copper cables are prone to weather damage and corrosion. Because fiber is made from glass, not copper, it will never corrode. Fiber is resistant to human or electrical interference unless fibers are physically cut. Unlike cable, fiber has a direct connection to your home – no sharing your service or speeds with your neighborhood.

#3 Security

Over the years, hackers have gotten a little too good at compromising Internet connections through cable tapping or other relatively simple methods. Because fiber networks don’t radiate signals, they are nearly impossible to hack into. And with so much of our personal and financial information online these days, we can’t be too careful.

#4 Cost

The costs associated with fiber optics have decreased significantly over the years. While satellite Internet service may still appear cheaper at first glance, all of the benefits already noted—speed, reliability, and security—can save you money in the long run.

We won’t be hanging out with the Ewoks on Endor anytime soon, but with fiber, at least we can stream, browse, and game at lightspeed. That’s it for this edition of Tech Tips! Check back soon for another tip to make your technology work for you.