Introduction
Are you looking for a fast reliable and most importantly honest internet connection to your house here in Kenya? That’s the question I ways have to answer when I’m moving houses. I remember one day when my wife complained about how long we both take to commute to work and back home, she suggested we move to a convenient place and I was quick to point out my requirements, one of which was a fast reliable fixed internet connection. Was I selfish? Maybe but in this post I’m going to highlight why I always choose a fixed internet connection plan rather than mobile broadband that is literally everywhere here in Nairobi.
Quick Summary
- Superior Speed and Reliability: Fixed fiber internet provides faster and more stable connections.
- Unlimited Data: Fixed fiber plans often offer unlimited data without speed caps.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Fixed fiber plans can be more affordable for heavy data users.
- Availability of Fiber Providers: Major providers like Safaricom, Jamii Telkom, Telkom Kenya, Zuku, and Liquid Telkom offer fixed fiber connections in many areas.
Looking back at just a few years, we can all agree that a lot has changed. Technology has since advanced to the extent that some of the things we overlooked before are now essential, such as a reliable and high-speed internet access. To some of us it’s even more crucial than ever to chose the best service for value than it was in yester-years. We here in Kenya should first acknowledge how lucky we are especially in this part of the world. Our neighbors are still grappling with using mobile phones to hotspot internet while here we only need to make one phone call and a service provider will come already armed with cables to give you internet service.
Now let’s back to the real question I promised to answer on why you should always choose a fixed connection rather than a mobile broadband. In a nutshell, let’s first get a gist of exactly what the heck I’m talking about. By fixed, I mean internet that is cabled such as a fiber optic or coaxial cable. Jamii Telkom always prefers to use fiber optic cables while Zuku prefers using a coaxial cable instead. The difference between these two is a story for another day. On the other hand, mobile broadband is essentially powered by a mobile service provider, same way you connect internet on your phone. The modes of connections however differ greatly with the likes of Safaricom preferring a GSM modem that is often hooked on your house with a SIM card embedded while Airtel and Telkom have special routers, or shall we say modem routers that come with their sim cards and all of these mobile providers utilize available mobile network connections to provide internet.
Now, while mobile broadband providers including 5G from providers like Safaricom and Airtel, offers the advantage of availability, a fixed fiber internet connection presents numerous benefits over mobile broadband. In this blog post, we will discuss why you should opt for fixed fiber internet connection rather than mobile broadband in Kenya, even if it’s 5G.
Key Benefits of Fixed Fiber Internet
Superior Speed and Reliability
One of the main advantages of fixed fiber internet is the speed and reliability it offers. Fiber optic connections can provide significantly faster speeds compared to mobile broadband, including 5G I must insist for those looking to ask questions already. Additionally, fiber connections are less prone to interference from weather conditions or network congestion, ensuring a stable and consistent internet experience.
Unlimited Data Plans
Fixed fiber internet plans often come with unlimited data usage, allowing you to browse, stream, and download without worrying about data caps. Mobile broadband providers on the other hand typically impose fair usage policies, which can lead to throttled speeds once you reach a certain data threshold. With fixed fiber, you can enjoy high-speed internet throughout the month. I know some fixed fiber providers also implement this outdated technique and Safaricom has been the culprit for the longest time, but it’s usually more understandable when it comes to mobile service providers. Have you ever imagined why some providers like Telkom Kenya have great deals on nighttime data bundles? Of course, it’s because then their network is not congested.
Cost-Effectiveness
While mobile broadband may be convenient, it can be more expensive for heavy data users due to data limits and overage charges. Fixed fiber plans are often more cost-effective, especially for households or businesses that require constant and high-speed internet access.
Diverse Fiber Providers and Coverage
In Kenya, major providers such as Safaricom, Jamii Telkom, and Telkom Kenya offer fixed fiber internet options. Additionally, other fiber-only providers like Zuku and Liquid Telkom provide competitive plans and services. These providers offer various packages tailored to different needs and budgets, making it easier to find a plan that suits you.
Mobile Broadband vs. Fixed Fiber: Pros and Cons
Mobile Broadband
Pros:
- Availability and mobility, allowing you to access the internet on the go.
- Rapid deployment in areas without fiber infrastructure.
Cons:
- Potential for slower speeds and network congestion, especially during peak usage times.
- Fair usage policies can result in throttled speeds.
- May be more expensive for heavy data users.
Fixed Fiber Internet
Pros:
- Faster and more reliable connections.
- Unlimited data plans for continuous high-speed internet.
- Cost-effective options for heavy data users.
- Lower latency, making it ideal for online gaming and video calls.
Cons:
- Limited mobility: connections are tied to a specific location.
- Initial installation can be time-consuming and dependent on available infrastructure.
Final Thoughts
Now that I have finished ranting about mobile broadband internet, why do you really need to opt for a fixed connection instead? While mobile broadband offers the advantage of availability and mobility, fixed fiber internet remains the superior choice for speed, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in Kenya. With the expansion of fiber optic networks across the country, more Kenyans can benefit from high-speed internet for work, education, and entertainment. By opting for fixed fiber internet, you can enjoy a seamless online experience with fewer interruptions and greater value for your money.