Communications At home, speed matters Whether its work or play, high-speed internet service in the home is a current requirement. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), broadband or high-speed Internet access allows users to access the Internet at significantly higher speeds than those available through other means. Fortunately, high speed internet service is readily available here. “No matter where you are in this part of the Texas Hill Country, whether you’re living in an apartment, building a home, or moving your business to town, reliable, high speed internet is at the core of what everyone needs,” according to GVTC Product Manager Roger Lewis. GVTC provides internet, TV, phone, security and other services to the local area. “There’s a myth that you have to leave technology behind in the city in order to enjoy the lifestyle you want with all the modern technological conveniences,” Lewis said. EFFICIENT ACCESS Broadband allows efficient access and use of many reference and cultural resources via the Internet, the ability to take advantage of distance learning experiences like online college or university courses, and working from home. Connecting to streaming video content is made possible by broadband. “Working from home, distant learning, gaming, and video streaming are growing in popularity and internet service needs to fit these lifestyle choices,” Lewis said. “Consumers need to access what services 10 Relocation & Newcomers’ Guide
they have available to fit their lifestyle or business needs.” Broadband can be provided over different platforms, including cable modem, fiber, wireless and satellite. Fiber optic technology converts to light electrical signals carrying data and sends the light through transparent glass fibers about the diameter of a human hair. FIBER IS KING “When it comes to technology, fiber is king,” Lewis said. “If fiber isn’t available, cable broadband connections are still reliable but not as fast.” According to Lewis, the standard speed is 250 mbps to download and upload files, which is usually adequate for most households. However, if a home has a lot of connected devices, speeds of 500 mbps up to 1 gbps are available. “Upload speeds are becoming more important due to the growth in use of security cameras and sending video clips, for example.” Existing homes lacking adequate internet
