The need for reliable and fast internet connectivity has reached unprecedented levels in today's digital era. Among all the available internet options, gigabit internet emerges as the standout choice, offering remarkable speed and many advantages.

Gigabit internet is a broadband service that can deliver speeds of up to 1,000 megabits per second (Mbps), equivalent to a full gigabit per second. This colossal speed dwarfs the capabilities of conventional broadband services, enabling users to engage in data-intensive tasks with unparalleled efficiency. It empowers individuals to download massive files swiftly, indulge in seamless high-definition video streaming, and participate in online gaming experiences with virtually no noticeable lag. A typical home internet speed ranges from 25 Mbps to 300 Mbps. This connection is suitable for basic internet activities like browsing, emailing, and streaming standard-definition videos. If you download a full HD movie (5-10 GB) on a 25 Mbps connection, it could take 30-60 minutes. The 1 Gbps connection, on the other hand, is ideal for heavy data usage like streaming 4K or 8K video and online gaming. Downloading a full HD movie (5-10 GB) on a 1 Gbps connection could take only 30-60 seconds!

The advantages of gigabit internet go beyond these core benefits. Its speed ensures that households with multiple devices connected to the network can all enjoy uninterrupted online activities simultaneously without significantly decreasing performance. Furthermore, it opens up new possibilities for remote work, virtual meetings, and collaborative online projects, allowing professionals to remain productive and connected in an increasingly digital world.

Gigabit internet plays a pivotal role in facilitating emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR) and the Internet of Things (IoT), as these applications demand ultra-high-speed connections to function seamlessly. Businesses and industries can also harness gigabit internet to enhance their operations, from accelerating data transfers to providing top-tier customer experiences through high-quality video conferencing and customer support.

Advantages of gigabit Internet

One of the main advantages of gigabit internet is its minimal latency. Latency refers to the delay that occurs when trying to access something online. With gigabit internet, this delay is significantly reduced, resulting in a smoother and more responsive online experience.

Gigabit internet also offers improved service reliability. Unlike traditional cable internet that consists of copper cables, the fiber optic cables used for gigabit internet are made of glass, which is less prone to interference and degradation.

Another advantage is the support for multiple users. With gigabit Internet, multiple devices can connect to the internet and perform high-bandwidth activities simultaneously without affecting the overall performance.

Fiber vs cable gigabit Internet

There are only two types of internet connection that can legitimately deliver gigabit-speed internet: fiber and cable. Fiber internet is the broadband gold standard, offering fast connections and symmetrical download and upload speeds, giving you the fastest internet possible. It's arguably more reliable than cable and less prone to being affected by peak usage times or congestion.

Cable internet provides connection through the same cables that providers use for TV services, so it's frequently bundled with TV packages. It's more reliable than satellite internet and offers faster download speeds. But unlike fiber, cable internet upload speeds are significantly slower than its download speeds -- so if you're sending emails or video chatting, you might experience some delay.

One key difference between cable and fiber internet is the upload speeds. While cable internet offers fast download speeds, its upload speeds are typically much slower. This is because cable internet uses asymmetric data transmission, meaning the amount of data that can be sent (upload speed) is less than the amount that can be received (download speed).

On the other hand, fiber gigabit internet can offer symmetrical upload and download speeds, which means you can upload information to the internet just as fast as you can download it. This can be particularly beneficial for activities that require high upload speeds, such as video conferencing or uploading large files.

If you send emails with large attachments or video chat, you might experience some delay with cable gigabit internet due to its slower upload speeds.

There are other types of internet connection, such as DSL, satellite, and fixed wireless, yet none of these will even come close to reaching gigabit speeds. And if a salesperson claims all gigabit internet is equal, stay away- it's a scam.

While fiber internet is known for its fast speeds and reliable connection, gigabit internet takes it further. Gigabit internet plans promise download speeds of around 800 Mbps to 940 Mbps and upload speeds of either 30 Mbps to 50 Mbps (cable) or 880 Mbps to 940 Mbps (fiber). This means that fiber-gigabit internet can offer faster speeds, especially for upload tasks, compared to standard cable gigabit internet. Also, fiber gigabit internet is less prone to being affected by peak usage times or congestion, making it more reliable than cable fiber internet.

Fiber gigabit internet offers numerous advantages over traditional broadband services, including cable gigabit internet. With its ultra-fast speeds, minimal latency, and improved reliability, it is set to revolutionize how we connect to the digital world.

I have been one of the first to use PLDT Home’s Gigabit Fiber for residential use. PLDT approached me to test it before the official launch a few years back. Gigabit Fiber has been a game-changer for my home as I use the Internet of Things (IoT), seamlessly transforming my daily experiences. Its reliable high-speed capabilities allow numerous devices to run simultaneously without worrying about lag or buffering issues. This is a blessing, especially since my smart home has an array of interconnected devices, from smart lights and thermostats to security cameras and appliances.

One of the most remarkable advantages of gigabit internet is its support for data-intensive applications. Real-time video monitoring, facial recognition, and AI-powered assistants now operate smoothly and reliably, enhancing my smart home's overall security and efficiency. Plus, with the rise of high-definition and 4K streaming services, gigabit internet is an absolute must for uninterrupted viewing on my smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones. The faster downloads of movies, music, and games have elevated my entertainment experience.

The PLDT Home Gigabit Fiber also empowers me to automate and control my home with precision. I can make instant adjustments to lighting, temperature, and security settings using smartphone apps, making life more convenient and efficient. When it comes to security, high-resolution cameras and reliable remote monitoring are now possible without any hiccups, providing me with the peace of mind I need.

What's even more exciting is that gigabit internet is future-proofing my smart home. As technology continues to evolve, I know my home is ready to handle the demands of more sophisticated devices and applications. This means I can stay connected, enjoy convenience, and maintain top-notch security for years to come. In essence, gigabit internet has transformed my smart home into a more connected, convenient, and secure living environment.

Not only that, but in addition to enjoying gigabit internet for my home, the Manila Bulletin is also equipped with PLDT's 1 Gbps connection, which allows employees and visitors to enjoy high-speed internet.