How does fiber internet work?
Unlike old-school copper wire or cable internet networks, fiber-optic internet gives you a super-fast connection using light signals that don’t degrade over distances the way they do using other technologies. This helps you get the speed and reliability you need whether you live in town or in a rural area.
Is Gigabit internet worth it and do I need it?
If you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions, your life would be easier and more enjoyable with Gig internet.
- Do you often have multiple devices connected to your network at the same time?
- Do you or your family members sometimes work or take classes at home online?
- Do you make video calls on your smartphone or computer, either for work or fun?
- Are you the in-home tech support resource for your family when the internet goes out? Do you wish you weren’t?
- Do you have a gamer in your house? What about a budding social media influencer?
- Do you have a smart home? Smart lights? Smart fridge? Video doorbell? Home security cameras?
- Are you a small business owner with 30 or fewer employees?
- Are you looking for business-grade internet for your small business, without the need for IT personnel?
Faster speeds, increased reliability, and unlimited virtual bandwidth are all reasons to get gigabit fiber internet. This digital signal is the most advanced technology to deliver the highest internet download and upload speeds to your location.
What is Gigabit internet?
Gigabit is just a fancy name for really, really fast. Fidium Fiber internet offers upload and download speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second (2000 megabits per second). That means no more buffering in the middle of the best scene in the movie, no more glitchy gaming, no more frozen screens during video chats, and no more snail-speed software updates for your phones and computers.
How fast is Gigabit internet?
1 Gigabit = 1000 megabits per second, or 1000 Mbps. When we say Fidium Fiber offers 2-Gig internet speeds, that’s 2000 Mbps. And with Fidium, you get what you pay for. That includes Gig speed uploads AND downloads. These speeds allow you to watch movies, battle your favorite villains, see what friends and family are up to on social media, and upload videos of your cat all day long. Even with multiple people online and lots of connected devices, your experience has never been better!
If you run a small business, Fidium’s Gigabit speeds are perfect for running all your online POS systems, handling all your connected office devices, accommodating your guest WiFi needs, and so much more.
What are the benefits of a dedicated fiber internet connection?
Because we run a fiber optic cable directly to your building, the quality or speed of your service doesn’t depend on your location. That dedicated connection means you don’t have to worry about neighbors using up your bandwidth – no sharing!
Another big advantage is that you’ll get the same speed for uploading (think video meetings) AND downloading. Upload speeds of 1 Gig or better are not possible today without a fiber internet connection.
Fiber internet is also highly reliable because it is virtually immune to many environment factors.
And then there’s SECURITY. Fiber does not radiate signals the way copper does, so it’s virtually impossible to hack or tap. And if some would-be fiber stealer did try to tap it, we’d see it right away and send someone out to investigate.
Is fiber internet reliable?
Yes. Fidium Fiber internet offers 99.99% uptime that is nearly constant. Fiber is made of glass, which is considerably more reliable than other data conduit, which means that fiber is at far less risk of disconnects and downtime. Fiber connections are virtually immune to many environmental factors including temperature fluctuations, electromagnetic interference, radio-frequency interference (EMI/RFI), crosstalk, impedance problems, and more. Fiber is so reliable that it is used to transmit data and communications across the ocean!
Will fiber internet increase the value of my home?
Is Fidium Fiber internet connection secure?
Yes. The security of your online connection is always something to keep top of mind. Fiber optic internet technology is safer than other internet technologies because it doesn’t radiate any signals and is difficult to tap into without detection by network operators.
With Fidium WiFi you also get Guard™, an always-on digital and data security feature for every device on your network. This system filters out suspicious activity and automatically quarantines devices that behave strangely.
With business WiFi you get Shield™ and Flow™
Shield is an enterprise-grade security that protects small businesses from cyber threats, with always-on network monitoring and three separate zones managing access to critical devices at the back office, employee, and guest level. Plus, Flow™, is motion awareness that can alert you to movement at the location. Flow allows you to detect movement near each connected device or room on your network. Use it for premise security or to gather motion analytics about how your space is used to optimize your business.
What does it mean to have symmetrical internet speeds?
It means that uploads happen just as fast as downloads. If you select an internet plan with Fidium, you can count on getting the speed you select for both uploads and downloads. This is unusual compared to other providers that can’t come close to providing uploads as fast as downloads.
What is latency and why should I care about it?
Latency, also called ping, measures how much time it takes for your computer, the internet, and everything in between, to respond to an action. For example, how long does it take a command like “Jump” in a video game to go from your fingertip to the cloud and back to your screen to make your character actually jump.
Gamers care a lot about latency. But it can also cause buffering when streaming online videos, or making online presentations, even impact the time it takes to open webpages.
In a nutshell, fiber offers low latency. And that’s a good thing.
Do I need to get one internet connection for home and one for work or school?
No. With Fidium’s Gigabit WiFi speeds, you will have plenty of bandwidth for everyone in your household to do what they need to do simultaneously.
What is the difference between a modem, a router, a gateway, and a wireless extender?
A modem and a router may be two separate devices that are connected by wires. A modem is a small box that connects to the Internet using cables. It acts as a digital translator, taking an information signal (internet data) and making it accessible to your computer.
A router works with your modem to allow multiple devices like phones, tablets and computers to use a single network through a wired or wireless connection. The router’s main function is to create and send out the internet WiFi signal.
Sometimes, a single device called a gateway can function as both a modem and a router. (You might also hear the term modem router – it’s the same thing.) It’s a one-stop shop for Internet connectivity. That’s what Fidium provides with our WiFi 6 gateway.
A wireless extender is like pushing someone on a swing who’s already moving. Your push makes them go a little faster. A wireless extender gives the WiFi signal a little push to help it reach all your connected devices.
What is mesh WiFi?
Mesh WiFi systems like Fidium's offers better coverage without degrading speed. Our unique mesh WiFi 6 system optimizes your WiFi based on your usage to deliver optimum speed and coverage. Our mesh WiFi system consists of your main WiFi gateway and satellite modules, or extenders, placed strategically for complete coverage when needed. They are all part of your single wireless network and share the same SSID and password, unlike traditional WiFi extenders.
What is a WiFi extender?
A WiFi extender does just what it says – it extends the reach of your WiFi signal throughout your building or location so all your devices (and the people using them) get the fastest connection possible.
How many WiFi extenders will I need?
That all depends on the size of your residence or building. One to two WiFi extenders will provide great coverage for most. If your residence or building is over 2,500 sq. ft. you may need additional extenders. Each additional extender will cover another 1,200-1,500 square feet. Up to two WiFi extenders, if needed, are included with our advertised internet service rate and each additional extender is $4.00/mo.
Is connecting to WiFi extenders secure?
Yes. Fidium’s WiFi extenders create a secure network with the latest encryption. As long as all the security features are enabled on the extenders, all online traffic is protected from real-time threats, crypto-mining, ransomware, malware and more.
If my internet connection needs repair, how quickly will you come out to fix it?
The good news is that many times we don’t have to come out at all. We will work behind the scenes or speak with you on the phone to solve problems together remotely – any time, day or night.
There are step by step troubleshooting fixes you can try on your own that may get you back up and running quickly.
If we do need to send a Fidium Network Expert to check things out, just call 1.844.4.FIDIUM (1.844.434.3486) and we’ll put both of our schedules together to find the soonest possible time – usually within 24 hours.
My internet connection varies throughout my physical location. How can I improve the connection speeds?
How can I check my internet speeds?
There’s an app for that – your Fidium Attune™ WiFi app for your home or your Fidium Attune@Work™ app for your small business. In fact, not only can you run the most accurate speed tests with the app, you can also monitor your speeds over time and review the overall health of all your connections.
Keep in mind that this may not be indicative of the actual speed Fidium is delivering to your home or small business. There are lots of factors, including the use of WiFi, the capability of the device, interference, and other things that could impact your speed test results.
Get more information on your connection and running a speed test.
What do my speed test results mean?
What is VoIP and how does it work?
VoIP stands for voice-over internet protocol. VoIP phones make calls over the internet instead of traditional landline or mobile network.
How is the call quality of a VoIP phone?
Crystal clear! And it’ll be consistently crystal clear for all your calls.
Will my internet work while I’m on a call?
Absolutely! Fidium Fiber internet gives you enough bandwidth to support making phone calls and using your WiFi network at the same time.
If I lose power, can I still make calls with VoIP?
No. To make VoIP calls, you need power and an internet connection. Customers who rely on home phone service for medical or safety reasons should have a backup power source in case of emergency. Our Fidium team can give you info on battery backup power on request. However, batteries will not power cordless phones, devices used to assist with disabilities, or other medical devices.
Does a VoIP line do more than phone calls?
No. Our VoIP platform doesn't support fax, alarm lines or medical devices.
Is VoIP a good long-term plan for phone service with today’s modern technology?
Yes. VoIP phone systems are already used by many major businesses and homes because of their clear sound quality and affordability. Our VoIP system also allows call forwarding, caller ID, call waiting, voice to email messages, call rejection and a do not disturb setting.
Can I call 911 with VoIP phone service?
Yes. As long as you have power to the phone and the line you can call 911 and other emergency services.
What equipment do I need to use digital phone?
Do I need a special phone for VoIP calls?
No. All types of standard, touch-tone phones can be used. You can use a corded or cordless phone. To use features such as Caller ID, you’ll need Caller ID display equipment or a phone equipped with Caller ID functionality.
Will my security system work with Fidium’s phone service?
No. But your system may not use phone lines, anyway. A lot of security systems use cellular networks. Please verify with your current Alarm System Provider on how your system is set-up, prior to your Fidium installation.
Will my answering machine still work?
Yes! Your Fidium phone service comes with Voicemail Service, but if you’d rather use an answering machine, you’ll need to visit the Phone & Voicemail Manager on the Fidium Insider Portal to change your Call Forwarding and turn Voicemail off.
Will I have Caller ID?
Yes! You can set-up Caller ID by using Star Codes or through the Phone & Voicemail Manager on the Fidium Insider Portal. You can also set up Call Blocking. Of course, your phone will need to have a screen that shows the Caller ID info.
How long will it take to install Fidium phone service?
We’ll install your VoIP phone service after we set up your new Fidium Fiber internet network. Your entire appointment could take between one to three hours – give or take.
What kind of taxes will I be charged for digital phone?
The taxes that apply to your Fidium phone service are the standard State and Federal Taxes that you normally pay where you live.
How is Fidium’s phone service different than other Internet-based phone services?
Features, voicemail and price. You get unlimited local and long Distance calling, 20+ features and voicemail at a very reasonable price. Plus, there are no additional charges added onto your service (other than state and federal taxes). And it’s all backed by the friendliest customer service team in the business.
Will I still be listed in the phone book?
I’m not ready to give up my landline. Can I still get Fidium?
Maybe. Fidium does not provide the old-fashioned landline phone service. If it’s something you need for medical reasons, we can connect you with the team at Consolidated Communications to explain your options for pairing plain old telephone service with a fiber internet connection.
Can I keep my phone number?
Yes! You can sign up for our Fidium phone service and maintain your current phone number. It’s best to call us to place your order so our team can walk you through the process. It may take a few days to get the transfer confirmed, but we’ll handle all the details.
Why can’t I make long-distance calls?
To prevent fraud, we automatically disable international calls unless you tell us to enable them. You can enable international calling when you place your order or call us to make the change at any time after service is installed. There’s no charge to enable international calls, but you will be charged the per minute rate based on the country you are calling when you make calls.
How do I make an international call?
You’ll need to call 1.844.4.FIDIUM (1.844.434.3486) to turn on international calling. To help prevent fraud, Fidium automatically blocks international calls unless you make a specific request to allow them.
What is streaming TV?
Streaming TV is simply watching live TV, movies, news, sports, and other video content over the internet. Streaming services let you watch what you want when you want instead of when a broadcaster schedules it. These services usually require monthly subscriptions. With a Fidium Fiber internet plan, you can watch all your favorite content without an expensive cable TV package that is loaded with things you don’t want or need.
Which streaming TV providers can I use with Fidium Fiber internet?
The short answer? All of them. We do have partnerships with DIRECTV STREAM, YouTube TV, fuboTV and Philo that can be easily added to your internet service. Just follow the prompts after you place your internet order online to check out the streaming TV services from these providers. You aren’t limited to those video options and you don’t have to purchase them through us.
Do I need a cable box or a Smart TV to begin streaming?
You can use Fidium Fiber internet to stream through a variety of media players and mobile devices. If your television has an HDMI port, most streaming devices will function on their own. DIRECTV STREAM subscribers can choose to either pay for DIRECTV STREAM’s streaming device or use a streaming media device they already own.
How do I choose a streaming service?
There are a variety of streaming services available to fit your needs. Whether you want live TV, movies, pay-per-view, sports, news, or entertainment, you can find a provider(s) to make everyone in your family happy. Check out our TV partners, DIRECTV STREAM, YouTube TV, fuboTV and Philo, to learn more about their offers.
What internet speed do I need for streaming?
Any of the speeds we offer, from 50 Mbps to 2 Gig will allow you to stream perfectly! BUT, if you expect to do a lot of streaming on multiple devices at once AND support a lot of other connected devices, you should definitely check out our gigabit plan.
Can I stream on mobile devices outside of my home WiFi?
Many streaming providers allow you to access their content through mobile apps. Your success streaming outside of your home will depend on your phone’s data plan or the WiFi in use at the time.
What do I do if I don’t have a smart TV?
If you don’t have a smart TV, you can watch streaming channels on your phone, tablet, or computer. You can also add a streaming device like a Roku® Streaming Stick™ or Amazon Fire TV Stick to your TV through an HDMI cable.
Where is Fidium service available?
How do I know what internet speed is available?
If you can get Fidium service, you can get any speed we offer. That’s why fiber is so cool. It doesn’t matter how far you are from some box of copper wires. Check service availability for Fidium Fiber internet at your location.
I see that you’re coming to my area. When and how can I order service?
If you know we’re coming to your area, you can pre-order through your local town’s page on our website. A pre-order is simply a way to express interest in being among the first to get Fidium Fiber at your location. There’s no obligation and no up-front payment required.
Here’s how the timing works:
-Pre-order beginning a few months before we’re ready to start installing service.
-If you pre-order, you’ll get a reminder message a few weeks before you can place your actual order.
-You’ll get the green light via email when we’re ready to take your order and schedule installation.
You may also get a visit from one of our Fidium Consultants, who can walk you through the process of pre-ordering or ordering when service is ready.
Is fiber internet the best way to get WiFi in my town?
Fiber internet is the fastest available internet technology! Our Fidium team provides the customer service you expect, and the speed you want and need to tackle school, work and entertainment for you and your family.
How does Fidium’s fiber network benefit my community?
Demands for bandwidth will continue to increase with more and more connected devices and the increased frequency of remote work, school, and home health care. With Fidium Fiber, you and your community will be future-ready.
Does Fidium offer service to businesses?
Yes. Fidium is for small businesses located in one our Fidium service areas and have 30 or fewer employees. Fidium@Work offers a fiber internet connection with a single dynamic or static IP address and up to two VoIP phone lines. You will have unlimited local and LD calling and choice of a published or non-published directory listing in the white pages. If your business needs are more robust than this, check out Consolidated Communications, which can offer both fiber broadband and fiber-based Ethernet services to enable advanced business applications.
I have a home-based business. Can Fidium provide business service at my home?
Yes. If you have a simple home office, we can support you with Fidium Fiber internet and VoIP phone service.
Also, if you have a single business location, we can support you with Fidium fiber internet (Fidium@Work), two VoIP lines, a dynamic or static IP address and white page listing. But if you have multiple business locations, or need team collaboration and productivity tools, website design services or connectivity to an additional outside location, let us refer you to Consolidated Communications. Those folks do an incredible job with fiber internet solutions for business.
Will you be going door-to-door as you arrive in new areas?
Yes. It’s not a scam, it’s really us. We’re just getting the word out, introducing ourselves and answering questions. No pressure. No worries.
Anyone from Fidium who knocks on your door will always introduce themselves by their first and last name and show you a Fidium ID.
You aren’t available in my area. What can I do to get you here?
The best thing to do is view our fiber expansion page and see if your town is on the list to pre-order service. We'll keep you informed as we make plans to expand our network. You can also contact us at 1.844.4.FIDIUM to get more details on our plans to reach your area.
What is the Attune™ WiFi app?
Our user-friendly Attune™ WiFi app, powered by Plume HomePass®, gives you total control over your home WiFi experience. Use it to:
- run a speed test
- know who’s online
- identify and troubleshoot a home network issue
- monitor network security and activity at home
- set controls around when to make access available
- find the best place to put your extenders
The app is constantly monitoring your network to make sure it’s running at peak performance every day.
How can Fidium’s mobile app help me?
Using the app, you can do the following from anywhere you have internet access:
- Change and share your WiFi name and passwords
- View the number of connected devices or people and their data usage
- Run a speed test
- View connection status of your WiFi extenders
- Add more WiFi extenders to your network (only if provided by Fidium)
Oh yes, there’s more!
- Quickly view all connected devices via network map
- Identify and resolve any signal interference issues
- Create a more secure online experience for everyone on your network
- Easily set up parental controls and usage limits
- Conveniently control guest WiFi access
Let's get you familiar with using the Fidium Attune™ WiFi app.
How do I download the Fidium Attune™ WiFi app?
Your Fidium Home Network Expert will help you download and sign in to the app during your installation. Don’t download the app until you have created and authenticated your Fidium Insider portal account. Create your Fidium Insider Portal account before we arrive for your installation, if possible.
During installation, you’ll need your smart phone to be connected to an existing WiFi connection or to a cellular network so you can go to the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and search for 'Fidium Attune WiFi' to download the free app.
Do I need an account to log into the Fidium Attune™ WiFi app?
Yes. You’ll also need to create and authenticate your Fidium Insider Portal account.
You’ll receive instructions for creating your portal account with your order confirmation email. The username and password you create for your portal account will also be your username and password for your Attune™ WiFi app. Because no one needs to remember yet another username and password, right?
Does the Fidium Attune™ WiFi app work on all mobile operating systems?
Yes, Fidium’s Attune™ WiFi app works on both iOS and Android mobile operating systems.
How do I navigate the settings and features of the Attune™ WiFi app?
Let's get you familiar with using the Fidium Attune™ WiFi app with these helpful articles:
- Navigating the Attune app - Explore the app settings and features with easy access to your network, connected devices and more.
- Customize network access - When you want a user or device to join your network, you can designate the level of access they have.
- Connection & speed test - Run a direct internet connection speed test or device speed test over WiFi.
- Creating profiles - Easily manage everyone in your household and the devices connected to your network through profiles.
- Setting up your security - Filter suspicious activity, quarantine devices that are behaving strangely, and enjoy built-in ad blocking.
- Parental controls - Manage content access for each profile at the device level and set screen time limits and filter bad websites.
- Block or approve websites - Get step-by-step instructions on blocking or approving a website or IP address.