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Fiber vs DSL Internet: Which Is Better?

fiber vs dsl internet
Author:
June 9, 2025

Your guide to choosing the perfect connection

When it comes to internet connections, the choices can feel a little overwhelming. DSL? Fiber? What do these even mean, and which one is best for you? Don’t worry—we’ve got your back! In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between DSL and fiber internet so you can make an informed decision that’s right for your lifestyle or business. Let’s dive in!

What Is DSL Internet?

DSL, short for Digital Subscriber Line, is a type of internet that works through copper phone lines. It’s one of the oldest forms of broadband internet, and chances are, it’s widely available in your area. But what makes DSL tick?

  • Average speeds: Typically range from 1 to 100 Mbps.
  • Availability: DSL is broadly accessible in urban and rural areas alike.

Pros of DSL

  • Affordable, making it great for budget-conscious users.
  • Widely available—even in remote locations.

Cons of DSL

  • Speeds can be slower compared to other options.
  • Not ideal for heavy streaming, gaming, or remote work.

Want to explore your options? Check out All West Residential Internet to see what plans fit your needs.

What Is Fiber Internet?

Fiber internet is the new kid on the block (well, not entirely new, but definitely cutting-edge!). It uses fiber-optic cables that transmit data at the speed of light - literally. So, what makes fiber so special?

  • Average speeds: Often starting at 250 Mbps and going up to 1,000 Mbps (gigabit speed).
  • Consistency: Fiber provides stable and reliable connections, even during peak hours

Pros of Fiber

  • Blazing fast speeds that make streaming, gaming, and remote work seamless.
  • Low latency, meaning less lag time.
  • Highly reliable, even during high-demand periods.

Cons of Fiber

  • May not be available everywhere—sorry, rural folks!
  • Often pricier than DSL.

Curious about how fast fiber can be? Dive deeper into fiber internet speed here.

DSL vs Fiber: Speed, Reliability, and Cost Comparison

Let’s put these two contenders head-to-head. Here’s a quick comparison:

FeatureDSLFiber
Speed1-100 Mbps250-1,000 Mbps
ReliabilityCan be erraticHighly stable
CostBudget-friendlyHigher upfront investment

Whether you need gigabit-level speed or something simpler, All West offers connectivity options to fit your needs.

Which Is Better for You? Fiber vs DSL Based on Use Case

Here’s the real question: which option is right for you? It all depends on how you plan to use the internet.

Choose Fiber If:

  • You’re a heavy streamer or gamer and need blazing-fast speeds.
  • You work from home and rely on stable, low-latency connections.
  • You’ve embraced smart home devices and need a reliable network.

Choose DSL If:

  • You’re a light internet user focused on browsing and email.
  • You’re in a rural area where fiber isn’t available yet.
  • You’re on a tight budget and need affordable plans.

For business-grade solutions, check out All West’s business internet options.

Final Verdict: DSL or Fiber?

Both DSL and fiber have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your unique circumstances. If speed and reliability are top priorities, fiber is the clear winner. But if you’re looking for affordability and accessibility, DSL might be just what you need.

Whatever your choice, All West Communications is here to help. Check availability or compare plans to find the perfect match for your internet needs. Happy browsing!

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Fiber vs Satellite: Choosing the Right Internet for You

fiber vs satellite internet
Author:
June 9, 2025

Demystifying Internet Choices with All West Communications

Finding the perfect internet connection can feel overwhelming, especially with options like fiber and satellite vying for your attention. Both are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in rural and underserved areas, but figuring out the best fit for your home or business can be tricky. Don’t worry - this guide has got you covered! We’ll walk you through the key differences, benefits, and scenarios for both fiber and satellite internet so you can make an informed decision.

What Is Satellite Internet and How Does It Work?

Satellite internet relies on signals from satellites orbiting Earth to your home via a dish. It’s a great option for areas where traditional wired connections aren’t feasible. However, due to the distance the signals must travel, latency (or delay) can be high, making it less appealing for gamers or those relying on video calls. Satellite internet is often the go-to solution for rural homes, cabins, and off-grid locations.

What Is Fiber Internet and How Does It Work?

Fiber optic cables revolutionize internet connections by using light to transmit data at lightning-fast speeds. Fiber internet is known for its reliability, low latency, and ability to handle heavy workloads, whether it’s streaming, gaming, or running multiple connected devices. While fiber has traditionally been available in urban and suburban areas, its expansion into rural regions by companies like All West Communications is making it increasingly accessible for everyone.

Curious just how fast fiber can go? Check out our guide on “How Fast Is Fiber Internet” to explore real-world speeds and what they mean for your home or business

Satellite Internet vs Fiber: Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences between satellite and fiber internet:

FeatureSatelliteFiber
SpeedUp to 250 Mbps (varies)1,000 Mbps+
LatencyHigh (500+ ms)Low (1–20 ms)
ReliabilityWeather-sensitiveVery reliable
Data LimitsOften cappedUsually, unlimited
AvailabilityWidely availableLimited in rural areas
CostHigher cost per MbpsBetter cost-to-performance

Benefits of Fiber Internet

Fiber internet shines in several areas:

  • Lightning-fast speeds, perfect for streaming, gaming, and remote work.
  • Low latency, ideal for VoIP and Zoom calls.
  • Handles multiple connected devices seamlessly.
  • Reliable regardless of weather or peak usage times.

Whether you're working, streaming, or managing a household full of devices, explore fiber internet options to see what’s available in your area

Benefits of Satellite Internet

Satellite internet is perfect for certain scenarios:

  • Available almost anywhere, even in remote locales.
  • No need for underground wiring or infrastructure.
  • Ideal for backup solutions or off-grid living.
  • Works where other services don’t reach.

Who Should Choose Fiber vs Satellite?

It ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and location. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Choose Fiber: If you work from home, stream in 4K, game competitively, or have smart devices spread across your household. If you're running a small business or office in a rural location, consistent speeds and low latency can help you stay productive.
  • Choose Satellite: If you’re in a remote or off-grid area where fiber isn’t available, satellite internet ensures you stay connected.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Connection

Both fiber and satellite internet have their strengths - it’s really about finding what aligns with your needs and circumstances. Fiber excels in speed and reliability, while satellite is unbeatable for availability in the most remote locations. Whichever you choose, All West Communications is here to help you navigate your options and find the perfect fit.

FAQ

Is satellite internet reliable for streaming?

It can work for basic streaming, but buffering and latency are common issues.

Is fiber internet worth the cost?

Yes, especially if you need fast, stable internet for work, entertainment, or gaming.

What’s the biggest downside of satellite internet?

Latency and data caps are its most significant limitations.

Still unsure which option suits you best? Reach out to All West Communications to discuss your internet needs and discover the possibilities!

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How to Switch Internet Providers the Right Way

An abstract digital illustration featuring a large, glowing Wi-Fi symbol over a network grid, symbolizing the concept of testing ping and data connection speed.
Author:
June 5, 2025

Your Guide to a Stress-Free Internet Upgrade

Are you tired of slow internet speeds, sudden price hikes, or unreliable connections? Switching internet providers doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little planning and the right approach, you can easily transition to a better service that fits your needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the why, what, and how of switching ISPs, so you can enjoy a seamless upgrade without losing connectivity.

Why People Switch Internet Providers

Let’s face it - your internet should work for you, not against you. Here are some common reasons people start looking for a new provider:

  • Price increases: Surprise charges or rising bills are frustrating.
  • Slow or unreliable service: Buffering during movie night? That’s a no-go.
  • Better offers: Sometimes, the grass really is greener on the other side.
  • Upgrading for remote work: Faster speeds help you stay productive.

If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to explore your options.

Ask These Questions Before You Switch

Before diving into a new contract, it’s important to get the details right. Here are a few questions to ask potential providers:

  • Do they offer a trial or satisfaction guarantee?
  • What’s included in the installation? Will there be additional fees?
  • Is 24/7 customer support available?
  • Are there regional limitations or speed drops during peak hours?

Step-by-Step Guide to Canceling Your Internet Service

Switching ISPs requires some planning to avoid unexpected fees or service gaps. Follow these steps to wrap up with your current provider:

Step 1: Check for Early Termination Fees

Review your current contract to determine if breaking it early will cost you. Some providers charge hefty fees, so it’s worth checking before making a move.

Step 2: Review Agreement Details

Look at the fine print regarding contract length, notice periods, and equipment return policies. It’s also smart to confirm the cancellation process - some companies require a call or in-person visit.

Step 3: Understand Pro-Rated Billing

Ask your provider how final charges will be calculated. Some companies will prorate your bill based on the exact cancellation date, while others might charge for the full month.

Step 4: Plan Around Your Billing Cycle

Avoid paying for extra days of service by scheduling your cancellation date to align with your billing cycle. Timing is everything!

Evaluate Your Internet Needs

Before you commit to a new plan, think about how you use the internet:

  • Do you stream 4K content, game online, or participate in video calls?
  • Are you running a smart home with connected devices?
  • Do you need symmetrical upload and download speeds?

These questions can help you choose a plan that matches your lifestyle.

Compare Internet Types and Providers

Fiber vs Cable vs DSL

Not all the internet is created equal. Fiber internet is lightning-fast and future-proof, making it a popular option. Cable and DSL have their pros and cons, but might not offer the same reliability or speed.

Speed and Reliability Differences

Make sure you understand Mbps, latency, and data caps. Throttling during peak hours can also impact your experience. Look for a provider who’s transparent about what they can deliver.

Consider Equipment Compatibility

Switching providers might mean upgrading your equipment. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Will your current modem or router work with the new provider?
  • Are there rental fees for new devices?
  • What are the installation requirements?

Tips to Avoid Downtime During the Switch

The last thing you want is to be stuck without internet. Here’s how to keep the transition smooth:

  • Schedule and confirm your new service installation before canceling your old one.
  • Coordinate dates carefully to avoid overlapping charges.

Conclusion

Switching internet providers doesn’t have to be a headache. By doing a little research and asking the right questions, you can find a service that meets your needs without any surprises. Whether you’re looking for faster speeds, better reliability, or more competitive pricing, making the move to All West’s fiber internet could be your smartest decision yet. Ready to upgrade? Browse our plans or talk to one of our experts today!

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How Many Devices Can 1 Gigabit Internet Support?

How Many Devices Can 1 Gigabit Internet Support | All West
Author:
June 2, 2025

What is 1-Gig Internet & Why is It Popular?

A 1-gigabit internet plan gives you download and upload speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps—this is made possible by light pulses through fiber optic cables. Compared to older internet types like DSL or cable, gigabit internet is way faster and more reliable. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

  • Super-fast speeds: Perfect for streaming in 4K, online gaming, and video calls without interruptions.
  • Handles multiple devices: Great for families with lots of phones, tablets, and smart tech running at the same time.
  • Low latency: Important for gaming and apps that need instant response times.

How Many Devices Can 1 Gigabit Internet Support?

It depends on what your devices are doing. Gigabit internet gives you 1,000 Mbps, which is shared among all connected gadgets. Here’s a simple look at how much bandwidth common devices use:

Device Type & Bandwidth Usage Estimates

Device TypeBandwidth Usage Overview
Streaming (4K Netflix, YouTube, etc.)25-50 Mbps per stream
Gaming (Xbox, PlayStation, PC, etc.)10-50 Mbps per session
Video Calls (Zoom, Teams, etc.)3-10 Mbps per call
Smart Home Devices (Thermostats, Security Cameras, etc.)1-5 Mbps per device
Web Browsing & Social Media1-5 Mbps per device

For example, let’s say your family is streaming three 4K movies, gaming online, and doing a video call at the same time. That would use about 140-200 Mbps, leaving plenty of room for other things like smart home devices, too. 

As you get closer to using your plan’s bandwidth limit, things can start to slow down. This happens because devices and tasks are all competing for the same bandwidth, especially during busy times when everyone in the house is online. Increasing your bandwidth to at least 1 gig helps keep your home running smoothly.

Can 1-Gig Internet Handle a Smart Home?

Definitely! Gigabit internet works great for smart homes because it can handle cameras, streaming devices, and automation tools all at once. If your house is big or has thick walls, try upgrading to a mesh network or a WiFi 6 router for better coverage. With 1-Gig speeds, you’ll have plenty of bandwidth to support multiple users and devices without lag. It’s a reliable solution for homes that rely on constant connectivity and automation.

Factors That Affect Gigabit Internet Performance

Even though gigabit speeds are fast, some things can slow them down. Here are the key points:

WiFi vs. Ethernet - Which is Faster?

Ethernet cables give you full gigabit speed. WiFi might be slower because of interference or distance from the router. Using a WiFi 6 router can help fix this problem and handle lots of devices at once.

Router & Network Equipment Limitations

Old routers and modems can limit your speeds. Upgrading your equipment is important to get the most from your gigabit plan.

Tips to Optimize Your Gigabit Internet for Multiple Devices

Want to make the most of your gigabit connection? Here are some tips:

  • Use a high-performance router (WiFi 6 or mesh network).
  • Set up guest networks to separate home and visitor traffic.
  • Enable Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize certain devices.
  • Use Ethernet for critical devices like gaming consoles and work PCs.

Conclusion

A 1-gigabit internet plan can easily support more than 20 devices running at the same time. If you’re into streaming, gaming, or smart home technology, gigabit speeds make everything run smoothly without lag or buffering.

Ready to upgrade your connection? Check out All West’s fiber internet plans for reliable gigabit speeds designed for your needs.

FAQ Section

Is 1-Gig Internet Enough for a Family of 4 or More?

Yes, 1-gig speeds can support 20+ devices at once if properly managed.

Will a 1-Gig Connection Improve Gaming & Streaming?

Yes, low latency and high speeds help reduce lag and buffering.

Do I Need a Special Router for 1-Gig Internet?

Older routers may cap speeds at 500 Mbps or less - consider upgrading to a WiFi 6 or mesh system.

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Switching to Fiber Internet? Here’s What to Expect

fiber internet
Author:
May 30, 2025

Explore the process, the benefits, and why making the switch to fiber internet is worth it

If you’ve ever wondered about switching to fiber internet, you’re not alone. More and more people are making the switch, drawn by promises of faster speeds, greater reliability, and future-proof connectivity. But what happens during the installation process, and why is fiber internet better than traditional broadband options? This blog dives into the details, so you’ll know exactly what to expect when upgrading to high-speed fiber internet.

What Is Fiber Internet and Why Is It Better

Fiber internet uses ultra-thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data at the speed of light. Unlike traditional broadband methods like cable, DSL, or satellite, fiber offers unparalleled speed and reliability. Here are some key benefits:

  • Faster speeds: Fiber internet provides symmetrical speeds, meaning upload and download speeds are equally fast.
  • Greater reliability: Fiber doesn’t slow down during peak hours or due to weather-related issues.
  • Lower latency: Say goodbye to lag during video calls, gaming, and streaming.
  • Future-proof technology: Fiber networks are designed to handle higher demands as technology evolves.

For users dealing with inconsistent internet and slow connections, fiber is a game-changer.

How Does Fiber Internet Installation Work?

Pre-Installation Preparation

Before the installation, All West Communications will check if service is available in your area. If fiber isn't yet available, you can join a waitlist for updates on expansion plans. As your installation date approaches, our team will get the required permits from your city, plan the route for fiber from the nearest connection point on your property, and then place the conduit and fiber that will service your home.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the pre-install work that takes place at your property:

  • Laying the fiber-optic cables: If fiber infrastructure isn’t already in place, cables will be installed near your home or business either by underground conduit or hung on aerial utility poles near your property.
  • Setting Up the Optical Network Terminal (ONT): This device connects the fiber network to your home’s internet system.

Installation Day - What Happens?

Here is a detailed guide on the installation process within your residence:

  • Connecting the router/modem to the ONT: The technician will verify the compatibility of your router with the fiber connection, splice your dedicated fiber strands into the network, and complete the setup. Fiber splicing involves carefully melting and joining the glass threads to create a continuous cable extending back to our data center, ensuring reliable and high-speed internet connectivity.

Typically, the installation process takes just a few hours to ensure everything is working flawlessly.

Post-Installation – What to Expect?

Once installed, your fiber internet connection will be tested for speed and reliability. Most users notice immediate improvements, including faster downloads, smoother video calls, and lag-free gaming. If any issues arise, All West Communications provides excellent customer support to troubleshoot and resolve them quickly.

If you have issues with your connection or want to make a claim for damaged property, contact our support team as soon as possible to start a trouble ticket.

How Fiber Internet Compares to Other Internet Types

Fiber vs. Cable Internet

Cable internet relies on shared bandwidth, which can slow down during peak usage times. Fiber, on the other hand, delivers consistent speeds regardless of how many users are online. Plus, fiber’s symmetrical speeds make it ideal for uploading large files and streaming content in high definition.

Fiber vs. DSL & Satellite Internet

DSL and satellite connections often suffer from high latency, making them unreliable for gaming, video conferencing, and streaming. Fiber internet eliminates these issues, offering a seamless experience. It’s also a better long-term investment, as older technologies struggle to keep up with modern demands.

Why Should You Switch to Fiber Internet?

There are plenty of reasons to upgrade to fiber internet, especially with All West Communications:

  • Work from home: Fiber ensures smooth video calls and fast access to cloud-based tools.
  • Streaming & gaming: Enjoy uninterrupted entertainment with minimal buffering and low latency.
  • Smart home compatibility: Fiber supports interconnected devices like security systems, smart thermostats, and voice assistants.
  • Future-proofing: Fiber networks are built to handle the evolving needs of tech-savvy households.

How to Switch to Fiber Internet in Your Area

Switching is easier than you might think. Start by checking fiber availability in your area through All West Communications. Consider adding TV and home phone services, then schedule your installation. If fiber isn’t available yet, stay connected with All West to learn about upcoming expansions.

Conclusion

Switching to fiber internet offers incredible benefits, from faster speeds to unmatched reliability. With All West Communications, the installation process is straightforward, and the end result is a connection that transforms your digital experience. Don’t wait — check availability in your area and take the first step toward better internet today!

FAQ

  • How long does fiber internet installation take?
    • Installation inside your home usually takes just a couple of hours, but timing may vary depending on your location.
  • Do I need a new router for fiber internet?
    • Some older routers may not support fiber speeds. All West Communications can recommend options to maximize your connection.
  • What happens if fiber isn’t available in my area yet?
    • You can join All West’s waitlist or inquire about future deployment plans.

Internet

Four Benefits of Fiber Internet

image of family using devices discussing the four benefits of fiber internet.
Author:
April 29, 2024

Say goodbye to internet you can’t rely on, and hello to fiber internet! Fiber is faster, more reliable and all-around more advanced than other types of internet connections. Learn more about the top four reasons your household will benefit from All West fiber internet.

Fiber internet allows you to…

Upload and download in seconds!

Your connection brings the world to your fingertips, which means that having high-speed internet is more valuable than ever before. With All West fiber internet, you can enjoy having equally fast upload and download speeds. Symmetrical speeds ensure your file-sharing, gaming, streaming and everything in between happens smoothly.

Stream without buffering!

Fiber internet helps you enhance your streaming experience and say goodbye to constant buffering. Eliminate the frustration that comes with having slow internet and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment with All West. We’ve invested in providing the highest quality network possible to ensure you get the streaming experience you deserve.

Game with no lag!

Because we value fast and reliable internet, our network was built with enough bandwidth to handle all our customers. With the right equipment, you’ll never have to worry about your All West connection lagging while trying to game on a Friday night.

Use the internet with no data caps!

We don’t believe in limiting our customers. Every All West internet plan includes unlimited data with no data caps. Customers will never have to worry about restrictions or going over an allotted amount of data either. We have the technology, network and infrastructure to be able to offer unlimited plans with confidence in our speeds.

Fiber internet will transform how your household connects. Slow speeds and a lagging connection will be a thing of the past when you make the switch!

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How to Reduce Screen Time

close up of man texting on phone utilizing healthy internet habits and high speed internet upload speed.
Author:
December 5, 2023

Did you know the average American spends more than 7 hours looking at a screen every day? When was the last time you looked at your phone’s weekly screen time report? Was it higher or lower than you expected? You can spend a lot of time glued to a screen with internet-connected activities such as social media, TV streaming, gaming, and even working. Being online has become the norm for most people, which is why you should be taking the time to create healthy internet habits.

Limit Notifications

You can limit notifications in a few different ways to give yourself a break from the constant stream of distractions. Your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” settings allow you to choose when notifications can or cannot reach you. This is great for when you are trying to get work done or trying to spend time unplugged. On iPhones, you can schedule notification summaries. These are specific times in the day when you get a summary of all the notifications you received since the last summary. You choose what apps you want to include in the summary and what app notifications you want to receive immediately. You can even turn off push notifications for apps that aren't important or delete unnecessary apps, so you won't be bothered by them. Go through all the apps downloaded on your phone to decide what app notifications are important to you and what apps you don’t need anymore.

Designate Device-Free Zones

Setting device-free zones in your home can ensure your family spends time each day unplugged. This is important for both adults and children. When it seems impossible to escape technology, these zones of relaxation and recuperation encourage healthy internet and lifestyle habits. Device-free dinners allow everyone to talk to each other and share about their day without scrolling through social media. Family game nights also let you have fun and create memories without technology to distract you. Keeping smartphones, tablets and even TVs out of bedrooms helps promote healthy sleep habits, while also giving everyone a much-needed timeout from constant stimulation. The best thing to do is set device-free zones and times that make the best sense for your family.

Monitor Internet Use

One of the best ways you can create healthy internet habits is by monitoring internet use. As mentioned above, there are more than enough internet-connected activities to keep you in front of a screen for an excessive amount of time. Set age-appropriate internet limits for your family or set specific times for your Wi-Fi to be turned off. With the Plume Wi-Fi system, you can set internet freezes for specific times of day, for indefinite amounts of time or for custom timeouts on any profile or device. Just like with designated device-free zones, monitored internet use and timeouts allow your family to take breaks to participate in non-connected activities.

Good habits come with time! By practicing the healthy internet habits listed above (and so many more), you can take a timeout from the internet and connected devices. Always remember: The internet is a tool. Don’t let it take control of your life and always strive to have healthy internet habits.

To learn more, visit allwest.com.  

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These Common Issues Might Be Slowing Down Your Internet

how to speed up your internet
Author:
December 5, 2023

Why Is Your Internet So Slow?

Does your internet feel slower than normal? Has it become frustrating to deal with an unstable connection? Fast, uninterrupted speeds are more important than ever with working from home, virtual school, streaming and so much more. As your demand for lightning-fast internet grows, check out some of the most common issues that can affect your connection. 

Issue 1: Not Enough Internet Speed

If your internet speeds are constantly slowed down, you might not have the right plan for your household. Think of your internet as a water pipe. You might have had enough water moving through the pipeline previously. However, if you are using the internet more, it’s like turning on more faucets, and you may see less water pressure than usual. If that is the case, then it’s time to upgrade your internet plan.

Symptoms of Needing More Speed:

📺 Frequent buffering while streaming your favorite shows or movies

🎮 Lag or delays during online gaming sessions

💻 Choppy or frozen video during Zoom or Teams meetings

📱 Slow loading times on websites or apps across multiple devices

🏠 Smart home devices disconnecting or responding slowly

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Multiple users struggling to stay connected at the same time

📶 Dead zones or weak Wi-Fi signals in parts of your home

Unlike other internet service providers, All West’s internet plans include unlimited data without any data caps, so you won’t have to worry about data use causing outages or slow internet speeds.

What Internet Speed is Right for You?

Issue 2: Poor Router Placement or Outdated Hardware

Have you ever heard your router referred to as “the heart of your internet connection?” Your router plays a big part when it comes to your connection’s strength, speed, and reliability. It is what sends wi-fi signals throughout your home. That’s why it’s important to choose a router that fits your needs.

Router Placement Tips

But it’s not just your router choice that matters – the location matters too. Walls, TVs, furniture, and other objects can block the wireless signal from your router. To improve your connection, move your router to a more central location in your home. Doing this will help spread your wi-fi signal throughout your whole home, which can improve your connection.

Issue 3: Too Many Devices Competing for Bandwidth

The number of devices you have connected to your network might surprise you. From smart home devices to laptops and gaming systems, there might be more than you think. The more devices connected to your wi-fi network, the more your bandwidth is split among them. This is what causes slow speeds if you don’t have enough bandwidth for all the internet usage going on at a time.

If too many devices are connected to the same network, it becomes overcrowded, and your devices compete against each other to connect to your router’s antenna. This results in buffering, slow speeds and latency. We suggest only keeping the most important devices connected or upgrading your speed to one that can handle them all.

Final Thoughts: How to Speed Up Your Internet Connection

Having a slow internet connection is annoying, and unfortunately, it can happen to any network at any time. When you have enough speed, a good router and keep an eye on the number of connected devices, you will be able to get the most out of your internet connection.

Struggling with slow internet? Here are a few tips you can try:

1. Restart your router regularly to refresh your connection.

2. Upgrade your router if it's more than a few years old.

3. Reduce connected devices or set bandwidth limits to prioritize important traffic.

4. Switch to wired connections when possible for more stable speeds.

5. Contact your ISP to explore plan upgrades if you're still experiencing slow speeds.

6. Ready to explore better internet options? Visit allwest.com to learn more.

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What Internet Speed is Right for You?

mom, dad, and child sit on couch with laptop on lap open.
Author:
December 4, 2023

When it comes to online gaming, surfing the web and streaming All West.tv, you need to have the right internet speed. But how do you know what speed to choose? If you only surf the web, do you need 100 Mbps? If you want to watch your favorite shows on All West.tv, how many Mbps do you need? We’re here to answer all your questions about what internet is right for you, and more!

How Does the Available Infrastructure Affect Your Internet Speed?

Depending on where you live, there’s different infrastructure in place to get the internet into your home. The most common types are DSL, Coax and Fiber. Each of these creates a pipeline for your internet to move through. The more advanced the infrastructure, the greater your chances of reaching faster speeds.
Your speed may also depend on whether your connection uses shared or dedicated bandwidth , as shared bandwidth can slow down during peak usage times.

The acronym Mbps stands for “megabits per second.” It is a measure of internet bandwidth that moves through the infrastructure. Bandwidth is the download and upload rate of your internet connection. The higher the Mbps is, the more you can do on your internet-connected device.

Your router is what talks to both All West’s modem and your internet connecting device. Having a router that is compatible with your wire infrastructure and Mbps helps your device get the fastest speeds possible. If your router is not designed for the internet you have, you won’t be able to reach your full speed potential.

(Are internet speed and bandwidth the same thing?)

General Internet Speed Recommendations

Having a fast internet connection depends on what you use the internet for at home, how many devices are using the internet at the same time, and how many Mbps you have from your service provider. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommends minimum internet speeds of 12-25 Mbps for families with multiple internet users or frequent online streaming.

The FCC has defined broadband, or fast internet, as internet with download speeds of at least 25 Mbps and upload speeds of at least 3 Mbps since 2015. Download speeds of at least 25 Mbps accommodate many families’ needs, but the best download speeds and upload speeds for you depend on how you use the internet at home.

For example, let’s say you have a family of four, and nine devices split between them that include phones, laptops, iPads, and Smart TVs. When everyone is home at least six devices are being used at once for school, streaming TV, surfing the web or gaming. When you have that many devices in use, you need enough bandwidth to support them all. Distributing 25 Mbps six ways is about 4 Mbps allocated to each device. Just doing schoolwork on a laptop could use up to 25 Mbps, resulting in very slow internet, which is why All West offers a minimum of 100 Mbps. The more internet-connected devices you use, the more your speed is distributed amongst them.

(Internet vs. Wi-Fi)

What Internet Speed Do I Need?

Here’s a general rule of thumb on how to choose the correct speed for you:

100 Mbps300 Mbps1 Gig
AverageFastVery Fast
Stream on 1-4 devices Run multiple smart devices or appliances Download big files Attend video calls with minimal buffering Enjoy multiplayer gamingStream 4K on 5+ devices Run 5+ smart devices Download big files quickly Work from home Have 4-5 users connected at the same time with no slowdownStream Ultra HD on 8+ devices Run 10+ smart devices, including home security systems Download and upload large files at top speed Use the internet on multiple devices at the same time

Keep in mind that the plan you choose ultimately depends on the needs and devices of your home. You can take our SPEED ANALYZER to help you find out which speed works best for you.

Your speed matters! The internet speed you have sets the parameters of what you’re able to do online. By choosing the correct plan for your needs, you’ll be able to stream, game, work and surf the web without worrying about long loading times, buffering or an inconsistent connection.

To learn more, visit allwest.com.  

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Get the Most Out of Your Multi-Gig Connection

woman and granddaughter using laptop
Author:
October 19, 2023

“I feel the need, the need for speed.” The demand for faster internet is greater than ever before. As an internet service provider (ISP), we are here to provide you with the best services possible, which is why we offer multi-gig fiber internet plans to our customers*. In order to take advantage of multi-gig internet (5 Gig and 8 Gig), you will need to have compatible hardware to take advantage of the speeds. Here is a list of things to consider:

Ethernet Cables: Not all ethernet cables are equal. You'll need Cat 6a or Cat 7 Ethernet cables to ensure the signal integrity and speed over the wired connections. These cables are designed to handle Gigabit speeds and beyond. Don’t know what type of cable you have? Most cables will have their category written on the side.

Ethernet cable

Computer Hardware: When hardwired into All West fiber internet, devices will need the following:

  • Device needs to be 10 gig capable
  • A 10 gig port in the motherboard

You can find out if your device is 10 gig capable by checking the manufacture specifications.

Router: The router is the equipment that takes the signal from your modem and distributes it to both wired devices and wireless (Wi-Fi) devices. A high-performance router** is crucial to manage and distribute the high-speed internet connection to various devices in your home, so you’ll want one that supports Gigabit Ethernet ports and has the processing power to handle multi-gig speeds. 

Plume SuperPods

Switches: If you plan to connect multiple devices through Ethernet, a Gigabit Ethernet switch will allow you to do so efficiently. A switch is a piece of hardware that connects multiple devices on a single network. Devices connect to the switch, which connects to the router so they can communicate with each other. This is particularly useful for devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and desktop computers.

Wi-Fi Access Points: To accommodate for wireless devices, you'll need Wi-Fi access points that support high-speed 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) standards. These will help ensure that your wireless devices can also take advantage of the high-speed internet.

Network Interface Cards for Wireless Devices: Devices that connect wirelessly also need to have Wi-Fi adapters that can support the high-speed connection. Make sure your laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other wireless devices are equipped with modern Wi-Fi technology. Devices that support Wi-Fi 6 will let you use your multi-gig connection to the fullest potential.

Ethernet cable connected to laptop

Your family can enjoy streaming, gaming, working from home and more with no interruptions with a multi-gig plan. By making sure your hardware is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 and speeds up to 8 Gig, you can get the most out of your internet.

CHECK INTERNET AVAILABILITY AT YOUR ADDRESS

*Service availability and internet speed will depend on location. Multi-gig internet plans are not available in all areas.

** At the time, Plume routers do not support 5 Gig or 8 Gig speeds. Compatibility is in the works and set to release in 2024.

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