Fiber Internet isn’t just fiber internet. If you’re looking for the fastest business internet, it’s important to understand the difference between Dark Fiber (self-managed fiber) and Lit Fiber (also fiber, but managed by the service provider). In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know and help you determine which option is best for your business.

What’s the Difference Between Dark Fiber and Lit Fiber?

Lit Fiber: Fiber Managed by the Provider

Let’s start with Lit Fiber, also known as ‘active’ fiber internet. This refers to a configured and active fiber optic cable connected to a network infrastructure. The connection is live and ready to use, providing your business with lightning-fast internet, phone services, and other communication solutions.

Benefits of Lit Fiber:

1. Instant access. With Lit Fiber, you get immediate access to internet services. This makes it a great choice for businesses that need to move quickly and don’t want to waste time setting up a new network.
2. Provider-managed. The service provider manages the connection and handles maintenance, security, and network upgrades. This is convenient for businesses that don’t want to worry about the technical details of their internet connection.
3. Fast and reliable. Fiber offers higher speeds and a more reliable network than traditional copper connections.

Dark Fiber: Self-Managed Fiber

Dark Fiber refers to unused fiber optic cables that haven’t yet been connected to a network device. These cables are essentially ‘dark’ or inactive, giving you the opportunity to build and manage your own network.

Benefits of Dark Fiber:

1. Full control (more freedom). Dark Fiber is ideal for businesses that want complete control over their network infrastructure. You can lease or purchase the fiber and activate and manage the network yourself. This gives you the freedom to design and control your network as needed.
2. Flexibility. With Dark Fiber, you can fully customize the capacity and configuration of your network to fit your needs. This is perfect for businesses that need to transfer large amounts of data or have specific requirements for their internet connection.
3. Future-proof and ultra-fast. Dark Fiber offers a future-proof solution for businesses that want to grow. You can expand your network without worrying about the limitations of an existing connection, making it an attractive option for businesses expecting increased data usage.

When to Choose Lit Fiber or Dark Fiber?

Not sure whether Lit Fiber or Dark Fiber is right for you? See if you identify with the following:

Choose Lit Fiber if:

• You need a quick connection. If you want fast internet access without needing technical expertise or a complex setup, Lit Fiber is the best choice. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that want to get online quickly.
• You don’t want to manage a complex network. If you don’t want the hassle of managing your own network, Lit Fiber is the way to go.
• You have moderate data needs. For businesses with relatively low data usage, a standard fiber connection might be enough.

Choose Dark Fiber if:

• You want full control over your network. If you need control over your network infrastructure, Dark Fiber is the right choice. You can configure the network to perfectly suit your needs.
• You expect data usage to grow. If your business is expanding and you expect an increase in data usage, Dark Fiber is a smart investment. You can easily scale your network without switching providers.
• You use demanding applications or services. If your business relies on bandwidth-heavy applications, such as video conferencing or data centers, Dark Fiber is a better option. It offers the necessary capacity and speed for these demanding services.

Conclusion: The Difference Between Dark Fiber and Lit Fiber

Lit Fiber is a fiber internet connection managed by the service provider. While it offers limited flexibility compared to Dark Fiber, it can be sufficient for small businesses with lower data usage. Dark Fiber, on the other hand, is self-managed, giving your business full control and offering greater flexibility than standard fiber internet.

Are you looking for ultra-fast business internet? See what Voiped Telecom can offer you in terms of fiber internet and Dark Fiber. Contact our team of ICT experts for personalized advice with no obligations.

Further Reading:

• 7 ways to optimize customer engagement with business communications technologies

• Dedicated Fiber: The advantages of selecting a Carrier-Neutral Connectivity Provider in the Netherlands