Choosing Between Mobile Broadband and Fibre Broadband

Fibre broadband derives its name from fibre-optic cables which are used to transmit the broadband signal. The rate of data transfer is substantially faster and higher in volume owing to the almost lossless virtue or attribute of fibre optics which uses light or photons as the signal carrier. For those living in landed homes, installation is via the land lines of the fibre-optic network. For high-rise residents, the primary fibre-optic cable is diverted towards their respective VDSL (very fast digital subscriber) units installed within the respective residential units themselves. A fibre broadband package consists of a web package (up to 100Mbps), a telephone line and other products such as IPTVs and special/signature house phones. Meanwhile, mobile broadband is a wireless broadband built or developed for mobile phones and cellular networks. Unlike fibre broadband which uses a physical line or wire to connect to the internet, mobile broadband uses wireless routers and USB modems which makes it more versatile when it comes to portability and mobility. Typical data plans include monthly data subscriptions of 1GB upwards to 20GB.

Fibre broadband is always connected to the internet via a landline which is linked to the telephony network. The installation process is also more complex or complicated as stationary modems and routers are involved. With mobile broadband, a portable modem makes it more convenient to connect several devices at once even when one is on the move. Because mobile broadband utilises wireless networks instead of a fixed line, data availability and network coverage greatly depend on the ISPs themselves and the areas they service. Weather also affects or impacts internet connectivity unlike fibre broadband which is much more robust and reliable in terms of speed and security. Mobile broadband on the other hand is more prone or susceptible to network congestion, data interference and information overloading.

When choosing a broadband type and package, there are a few hints or pointers to take into account or consideration. Since modern high-rise residences come equipped with fibre broadband, residents are able to activate their internet package straightaway in an instant. It is also recommended to have fibre broadband in high-rise buildings as mobile broadband signals are often weaker and generally less stable. Coverage-wise, not all residential areas have fibre-optic cables installed to cater to fibre broadband. The immediate solution to this is to subscribe to mobile broadband. In terms of contract, mobile broadband offers data packages with limited speed whilst fibre broadband offers constant speed and value-added services such as IPTV and support for subsidiary devices. Unlike mobile broadband, fibre broadband supports high speed connectivity and high data consumption, and is ideal for web streaming and online games. Most ISPs in Malaysia are now offering both fibre and mobile broadband packages for homeowners and other web users both domestic and abroad. Household brands that include popular packages are TM Unifi, TIME Broadband, Maxis, Digi, Celcom, and also YES Broadband. To find out more about their services, visit their corporate websites to check out their promotional packages as well as subscription fees.

In order to maximise usage from your existing broadband plan, it is rather worthwhile to follow a few tips and tricks that could optimise your data consumption as well as save you money in the long run. It is important to note that with more people connected to the same internet package within a single household, overall consumption of internet data is bound to increase with a stark or substantial reduction in internet speed. Also enquire your local telcos or mobile specialists about which plan suits and benefits you better. Always check your internet coverage with your local internet service provider to ensure sufficient data is provided for all your online data needs and usage. Make it a habit or routine to contact your ISP periodically for the latest updates as well as additional information pertaining to your subscribed package. You would certainly expect hassle-free service with minimal disruption or downtime period!