INTERNET

Fibre optics are now the fastest way to connect to the Internet. However, there are different fibre technologies, such as BX fibre and XGS-PON, which work in slightly different ways. Here's a simple explanation to help you understand these two technologies.

1. BX fibre (point-to-point)

BX fibre works on a model called point-to-point. This means that a single fibre connects your home or business directly to the Internet operator, without passing through another device or splitter.

How does it work?

There is a single fibre between you and the operator.

The same fibre carries data in both directions (downloading and uploading), but with different wavelengths to separate incoming and outgoing streams.

Speed:

BX fibre connections offer speeds of up to 1 Gbps or 10 Gbps, depending on the network installed.

When should it be used?

BX fibre is ideal for small businesses or households that need a fast connection but do not have extremely high requirements.

Here's a concrete example:

Imagine you have a direct line that goes from your home to the operator without crossing other connections. It's an exclusive link between you and your provider.

2. XGS-PON (Point to multipoint)

XGS-PON uses another method called point-to-multipoint. This means that a single fibre leaves the operator, but is then shared between several users. This fibre is split at a certain point to serve several homes or businesses.

How does this work?

A single fibre leaves the operator and is then split up to serve several customers.

Each user shares the fibre with others, but this does not affect quality or speed because XGS-PON technology allows very high speeds.

Speed:

XGS-PON can offer up to 10 Gbps for downloading and uploading. This means that the speed is the same in both directions, ideal for users with high bandwidth requirements.

When to use it

The XGS-PON is perfect for businesses or connected homes that use a lot of the Internet, such as for high-quality streaming, video games, or intensive professional tasks.

Case in point:

Imagine a large main road (the fibre) that splits into several paths to access different homes (customers).

Each house receives part of the fibre, but the main route remains powerful and fast for everyone.