What is cable internet? The main difference between fiber optic and cable internet is how they work. Often associated with television services, cable internet is a form of high-speed internet that uses the infrastructure of cable television for internet access, combining television and internet into one service. Understanding the differences between fiber optic and cable internet begins with examining the internal structure of cable internet. Coaxial cables, an older technology, use copper wires originally designed to carry television signals. These cables build on top of an existing network that brings television to homes or businesses.

The difference between fiber optic and cable internet comes down to how each service works. Cable broadband relies on traditional copper wires, while fiber optic internet uses a fiberglass core instead of an electrical current. Fiber optic internet cables transmit digital data as light signals through optically pure glass threads that are thinner than a human hair. This method is the most technologically advanced, offering fast and secure data transfers. Fiber optic internet cables provide reliable, high-speed data transfer. The speed of fiber optic internet depends on the availability of various broadband options and subscription features.