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Symmetrical internet delivers an equally fast upload and download speed. Most internet plans offer higher download speeds as compared to upload speeds, making your connection asymmetrical.
Imagine you’re on a video call with your friend, and their facial expression and voice stop syncing. This usually happens when the rate at which data from your device is being sent is not equal to the rate at which data is being received.
However, if your upload and download speeds match, there’s a higher chance that your call goes smoothly. First time calling a date? You better have a symmetrical internet speed!
Let’s break it down further and get things symmetrical…
Understanding symmetrical speeds
Your internet speed depends on a couple of factors including:
Download Speed – measured in megabits per second, this is the speed at which data is downloaded or received.
Upload Speed – also measured in megabits per second, this speed reflects the rate at which data is sent or uploaded.
Latency – measured in milliseconds, this is the time it takes for data to be sent and received back. The lower your latency is, the faster your response rate will be.
Picture this: you’re playing a game online, and every time you take an action, that command is sent over the internet. From the moment you shoot a fire, to seeing the bullet hit off on the screen – a lot is happening.
When you press a button, data is uploaded, and the action taking place on your screen happens after the data is received back or downloaded. The time in between these two depends on the latency of your internet. If your upload and download speeds are the same, your latency would be so low you won’t even notice.
In short, if your upload and download speeds are symmetrical – viola, you’re already killing it mate!
How to get symmetrical Internet speeds?
Now let’s talk business. If symmetrical speeds are so good, why isn’t everyone getting it? Unfortunately, good things are rare. The only internet connection type that offers symmetrical speeds, aka fiber internet, is not available to everyone. While it’s not as rare as a chubby little panda, you do have to check if an internet service provider in your area is offering a fiber internet connection.
What can you do with symmetrical Internet speeds?
Symmetrical speeds are ideal for users who need the internet for intensive online activities. While non-symmetrical speeds may be sufficient for most users, symmetrical speeds are built for the future. Here are some activities that require equally fast upload and download speeds for smooth and seamless functioning:
- Live streaming content
- Multiplayer online gaming
- Video calling
- Posting video content on platforms like YouTube and TikTok
- Uploading large files frequently
- Video surveillance through smart home cameras
All these activities require data to be sent and received at the same rate in order to provide the best results. If your current internet plan does not offer a smooth experience, chances are you might need a symmetrical speed plan.
Do I need symmetrical Internet speeds?
Whether you need symmetrical internet or not depends entirely on your requirement and the performance of your current plan. If you feel like intensive online activity is not as smooth as it should be, you should think about switching to a fiber internet connection with symmetrical speeds. You can also take a speed test to check your upload speeds and whether they are enough for you.
Here are some of the top fiber internet plans that offer symmetrical speeds for best results:
^Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5GIG, single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101.
Bottom Line
Symmetrical internet is offered by fiber internet providers, which may not be available in all areas. However, if available at your location, fiber internet is a great option for residential internet users with heavy internet usage. Get smooth uploads and downloads, a seamless gaming experience, lag-free video calling, and buffer-free streaming. Sounds tempting, right? Go check if you’re one of the lucky ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is symmetrical Internet worth it?
Yes, symmetrical internet is definitely worth it if your online activities require equally fast upload and download speeds. Activities like live streaming, multiplayer gaming, video conferencing, and working from home require faster upload speeds for best performance.
Is symmetrical internet more expensive?
Yes, symmetrical internet may sometimes be more expensive than an asymmetric internet plan because of its infrastructure cost and limited availability. Fiber internet is built on fiber-optic cables that are costly, unlike cable internet wiring, which is more budget-friendly. This cost adds up to the final price, so you might have to pay a little more for a symmetrical internet plan.
Is fiber the only connection type that offers symmetrical speeds?
Yes, currently, fiber internet is the only connection type that offers equally fast upload and download speeds.
