Fiber to the home frequently asked questions

What is FTTH Internet?

Fiber to the home (FTTH) is the delivery of a communications signal over optical fiber from the providers switching equipment all the way to a home. Fiber to the home is a relatively new and fast-growing method of providing more bandwidth to consumers, therefore providing the best video, internet and voice services.

As cable modem and DSL providers are struggling to squeeze increments of higher bandwidth out of their technologies, ongoing improvements in fiber optic equipment are constantly increasing available bandwidth without having to change the fiber. That’s why fiber networks are said to be “future proof.”

How much does it cost?

Our FTTH internet service is competitively priced and the best value in our Carthage community. Pricing for fiber services can be found on our website at https://ecarthage.com/fiber/

Why does it take so long to get fiber in my area?

Fiber internet is the newest and best type of wired internet. Unfortunately, its newness is also a setback, as there isn’t existing fiber infrastructure in the Carthage community. Rolling out new fiber internet infrastructure is slow and expensive, as crews are building it from the ground up.

How do I get signed up for Fiber?

We ask that all customers interested in Fiber optic internet fill out our interest form on our website, https://ecarthage.com/fiber-request/. After you fill out the interest form, if fiber is currently available in your area, you’ll be notified that you that your location is fiber-ready. Service areas are limited at this time. If fiber is not available in your area yet, your address/neighborhood will be added to our fiber expansion list and we will notify you by a door hanger when we’re ready to install in your area.

Why is Fiber Optic Internet better than cable internet?

Cable & fiber are both reliable forms of internet, but fiber is better for delivering the fastest speeds, especially for upload bandwidth. It’s also less prone to high-traffic slowdowns and is more secure than cable is. Tapping into a fiber optic internet cable to intercept data transmissions is incredibly difficult in comparison to copper cable that’s use for cable internet. Fiber optic internet is ultimately more reliable than cable internet for the main fact that it does not utilize copper cable which can wear down over time and decrease effectiveness.

Why is it worth the wait?

Fiber is the fastest, most reliable form of internet in today’s world, and we’re able to provide it right here in our Carthage community. eCarthage is known for the local, reliable, friendly service that we’re able to provide to our friends and families, and having that local support and a friendly person to talk to is worth it!

How does fiber optic internet benefit our community?

As with any utility, having the most capable and reliable infrastructure provides value to the community and its residents. Our fiber optic internet can help attract businesses that require large amounts of bandwidth for their operations. Residential users also benefit because customers are constantly needing and demanding higher amounts of bandwidth in their homes. This fiber investment prepares us all for the future. 

Can the weather cause interruptions to fiber service?

Harsh weather conditions do not typically affect fiber optic cabling. Due to fiber optics sending light beams down thin strands of glass rather than electric signals, these cables are not affected by electric interference.

What type of equipment is required for Fiber Optic Internet?

eCarthage will provide the necessary equipment to terminate the fiber-optic signal. Customers will need to provide a router which can be found in the electronics sections of local department stores. The higher quality the router, the better your service will be. If you have any questions regarding which type of router to purchase, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

How do you install fiber optic internet?

Installations are customized to suit site-specific requirements and meet the needs of our customers. Our local team of installers will coordinate with customers to develop a plan and schedule the install.

Is it dependable for the long term?

Absolutely! Fiber-optics are used in the core of internet and telecommunication networks globally where reliability is of the utmost importance. eCarthage is extending that technology all the way to our homes.

Does the customer have to purchase their own modem/router? If so what type of router?

Yes. Customers are responsible for providing a router. A router is the important gear that provides a Firewall for security and allows you to connect more than one device to the internet at a time.

How do I choose the right router?

We recommend a WIFI router so that you can connect your wireless devices. Our service requires a router that has an Ethernet port for the internet connection. There are many WIFI router brands and models from which to choose; the size of your home, how many devices will be connecting, and how you plan on using the internet (streaming, gaming, work-from-home, etc.) are important considerations when choosing a WIFI router.

Are there data caps on the service or is it unlimited?

At this time, we do not implement data caps. For current service details, please check https://ecarthage.com/fiber/

Do you offer faster speeds?

Our speeds are fast! Our residential FTTH internet service comes with up to 100Mbps download and 10Mbps upload speeds. The speeds of our services are posted at https://ecarthage.com/fiber/

Do I need to pay the installation fee up front?

This may vary based on credit history. In many cases, the installation fee is included on the first bill.