Internet connection types in Switzerland: fibre, cable, 4G/5G
Fibre optic, coaxial cable, ADSL or fixed 4G/5G — what are the real differences? This guide compares the main internet access technologies available in Switzerland to help you choose.
The quality of your internet connection depends largely on the technology used to connect you. In Switzerland, several options coexist. Here is a practical guide to understanding the differences and choosing what suits you best.
1. Fibre optic (FTTH)
FTTH stands for Fiber to the Home — fibre all the way to your home.
How does it work? A fibre optic cable carries data via light pulses from the network node to your home.
Performance:
- Download speeds: from 100 Mbps to 10 Gbps depending on the plan
- Upload speeds: often symmetrical (as fast uploading as downloading)
- Very low latency
- Excellent stability
Ideal for: large families, remote working, online gaming, 4K streaming, businesses.
Availability: Being progressively deployed across Switzerland. Most urban areas and many rural areas are now covered.
2. VDSL / ADSL (telephone line)
How does it work? The connection runs over the existing copper telephone line.
ADSL: Older technology. Limited speeds (up to ~20 Mbps download) and asymmetric (much slower upload).
VDSL / VDSL2: Improved version. Download speeds up to 100 Mbps, but highly dependent on the distance between your home and the nearest telephone exchange.
Ideal for: areas without fibre or cable, moderate use (browsing, SD/HD streaming).
3. Cable (Coax)
How does it work? Uses the existing cable television infrastructure (coaxial cable).
Performance: Often high speeds (up to 1 Gbps). Bandwidth may be shared between neighbours at peak times.
Availability: Primarily in areas covered by UPC/Sunrise.
4. Fixed mobile internet (fixed 4G/5G)
How does it work? Uses the mobile network (4G or 5G) to deliver internet to your home via a router with an integrated SIM card.
Performance: Variable depending on coverage and network traffic. From 20 to 300 Mbps in practice.
Ideal for: areas not covered by fibre or cable, holiday homes, backup solutions for businesses.
MaxiConnect offers a special option: mobile backup internet with a fixed IP, ideal for businesses that need a reliable backup connection.
How to choose?
| Criterion | Fibre | VDSL | Cable | Fixed 4G/5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Upload | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Installation | Required | Simple | Simple | Very simple |
Not sure which technology is available at your address? Contact us — we check the available options for you free of charge. 📞 +41 58 521 32 00 — 📧 hello@maxiconnect.ch