Fiber Frequently Asked Questions

Fiber-optic internet, commonly called fiber internet or simply “fiber,” is a broadband connection that can reach speeds of up to, and exceeding, 10 Gbps. The technology uses a fiber-optic cable, which sends data using light waves. Fiber has an immense capacity as a single strand of fiber can be used to transport multiple paths of data using different colors of light.

Yes. With high-speed internet comes the opportunity for many types of “IP” services. IP is short for Internet Protocol services. IP is anything that is streamed over the internet. In the past you had to have a cable run to your house to have Cable TV, additionally you needed a phone jack to make phone calls, a dish mounted on your house to have dish TV, etc. Now all these services can be streamed through your fiber internet. In fact, there are hundreds of competing IP services for phone, TV, etc. that you can use over fiber to save.

1 Gigabit per second (Gbps), or 1,000 Megabits per second (Mbps) means that 1 billion bits of data can be transmitted in one second. One byte is made up of eight bits. For comparison, your favorite song may be 2-3 Megabytes (MB), and a high-definition movie might be 3-4 Gigabytes (GB).

TV services can be obtained through internet video streaming services. You can google (search on-line for) “IP TV” for hundreds of options. You will find packages with thousands of different channels that can be streamed directly to modern TVs. Your internet service provider may bundle streaming services, or you can pick and choose the content that is right for your family. No additional cables are needed. You can choose, subscribe, and pay for just the services that you want. The content will be delivered through your fiber internet.

You will need to set up a new email address. Google’s Gmail or Microsoft Outlook are a couple of the most popular free options and are not specific to any particular internet provider.  You can keep it no matter who provides your internet services. When you choose a fiber internet provider instead of your cable service provider, you will need to create an email address through an alternate option like Gmail, Microsoft, Outlook, or others that provide free email services not tied to any one internet provider.

There are many different types of security systems.  Most security systems have cellular connections independent from your cable and internet services.  You can work with many different security providers to maintain and monitor your security system.  There are also some security systems that utilize local internet or Wi-Fi connectivity.  For these types of systems, it is possible to connect your security system to the fiber internet like any of the internet-enabled devices in your home. For specifics, contact your security system provider.

The router provides Wi-Fi and distributes internet to all of the internet-enabled devices in your home.

The type of router you need depends on the internet speed you choose. The higher internet speeds require better routers to be able to maintain that speed. Your effective internet speed will be affected by the router you choose. In some cases, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can provide you with an appropriate router. Talk to your ISP to make sure the router you have will not affect the internet speed you choose. Ask your ISP to check your router and the resulting speed when you sign up.

ONT stands for “optical network terminal”.  It is the device that is provided by the city and is connected to the fiber network. The ONT acts like a “cable modem” for fiber and translates the light-wave signals into signals that your router can use to provide you internet.  The ONT is usually located in the home where the fiber cable enters. The router is usually a separate device that connects after the ONT and distributes internet to all of your personal internet-enabled devices such as your computers, smart TVs, etc.  Most routers also provide Wi-Fi for wireless internet connection.

Providence city is not competing with private businesses. Providence City is only providing the fiber-optic network (i.e., physical infrastructure) and will (at least initially) contract with Strata Networks to oversee quality network operation. The fiber network uses an “open-access” model whereby any internet service provider (ISP) can utilize the fiber optic network to provide internet services. This improves competition and results in better service, pricing, and content. This also allows smaller companies to compete that can’t afford to create their own physical network. Providence City allows any ISP that wishes to join the fiber network, as long as the ISP is willing to agree to basic terms which are meant to ensure quality service to residents on the fiber network.

Watch this video to learn more: Part 2 video

The City continues to add to its list of participating ISPs. Currently, the following ISPs are available:

• Advanced Stream
• ConnectFast
• Complete Communications
• Infowest
• Intellipop
• STRATA Networks
• Sumo
• Wi-Fiber

Learn more about the process of selecting your ISP in this video:  Part 4 video

Advanced Stream

Advanced Stream, a proven ISP with 25 years of experience, provides reliable
Gigabit speed, symmetrical, fiber-optic Internet service, at affordable rates.
No data caps. No contracts. No Equipment Rentals or other gimmicks.
Advanced Stream’s Low-Price Guarantee makes Internet affordable. We support the
Affordable Connectivity Program. See ACP here: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Goodbye Xfinity! Advanced Stream’s “Cord Cutting Concierge” program makes
streaming TV and movies seamless. Save money and get your favorite channels and
programs —including local news, weather, sports.
Learn more about streaming: https://www.advancedstream.com/streaming
Advanced Stream’s fully redundant, net neutral, self-healing network is monitored
24x7x365. Public IPv4 addressing (“No NAT”). Peering with media providers, such as
YouTube TV, Amazon Prime and Netflix, provides instant access to streaming
content.
Unlimited support for all tech issues —including parental controls, anti-virus
protection and backup of your computer’s data. We keep your Wi-Fi network,
routers, computers, smart TVs, tablets, printers and smartphones running smoothly.
Call: (801)877-8000.

Intellipop

Intellipop was founded with a simple goal in mind: to provide a better internet service experience. We believe the internet is much more than a network connection, it’s a window into the world and a resource we depend on more and more each day. We know how important internet access is. Our team prides themselves on working with our customers to optimize their experience with our service and we take our responsibility as a provider to heart. With Intellipop, you’re never a call or text away from our support lines, 24 hours a day.

Strata Networks

Headquartered in Utah, STRATA Networks has nearly 70 years of experience in providing services to customers. STRATA offers four residential and four business Internet packages on the Providence Fiber Network, allowing you to select the right fit for your household or business. A STRATA Internet connection gives you access to state-of-the-art equipment, 24/7 tech support available via Live Chat or through our call center, and a convenient app that allows you take control of your network with features like content filtering, usage reporting, device prioritization, and enhanced security. To learn more visit https://www.google.com/url?q=https://strata.click/providence-services&source=gmail-imap&ust=1667320673000000&usg=AOvVaw1zPRX6o2uW-LJ1-tnOz_vV

Wi-Fiber

Wi-Fiber is a locally owned and operated provider in Logan. Our customer service reps are located right off Main Street– eager to provide exceptional customer service. No data caps, no contracts, and no hidden fees is our promise. Rooms with internet dead zones are a thing of the past. Our technicians install your router, and we use cloud network monitoring to ensure every customer has a stable Wi-Fi signal with great speeds. When you choose Wi-Fiber, you choose a quality local service at an affordable price point.

Yes, you can maintain your current internet service or choose something else. You are not required to use the Providence City fiber network. Since all Providence residents pay a basic fee for the fiber infrastructure utility, the city has contracted with Strata to provide a free (no additional cost beyond the infrastructure fee) basic internet service. This basic service provides speeds that support basic web browsing, email and is available to those who choose. Some residents have expressed that they like the idea of having the basic service available as a backup to their current service as well. Some routers are capable of aggregating this basic service from fiber to the service you already have.

It is unlikely you will be satisfied with streaming media with the basic internet service. This service is only intended for basic web browsing and email which do not require high data rates. While there is no plan to limit the ability to download or stream media services, it is likely that the quality of such a service will be noticeably low given the slower data rate of the basic internet service.

With fiber coming to all residents soon, we suggest that residents avoid signing any long-term commitments and opt for month-to-month agreements until connected to fiber, if possible. Some providers may offer fixed plans that allow you to prepay for service rather than sign any type of contract which may be a good option as well.

Basic internet service will be included with a planned $10/month utility fee. The basic internet plan includes speeds up to 5 Mbps which can support simple functions like email and basic web browsing but is not ideal for high usage activities like streaming and connecting many devices. Additional speeds of 250Mbps, 1 Gbps and higher will be available through participating Internet Service Providers. Rates may vary slightly by provider. See your local ISPs for their specific internet rates. A link to Providence City ISP and their rates can be found at https://providence.stratafi.net/

The city is considering criteria and opportunities for residents which could experience unnecessary hardship caused by the additional $10 utility fee. If you feel that this added fee would cause you undue burden, please reach out to the city staff to help them understand your situation.

When the fiber connection to your home or business is completed, you will have access to several internet service providers (ISPs). Each provider will offer internet as a primary service and may provide voice, video, or other services as additional options for your consideration. There are many IP (internet protocol) services that you can choose from on-line as well to obtain phone, TV, and other services. You can do internet search for these services or ask your neighbor.

It is anticipated that fiber will be run to all locations within the city by 2024. The city has been divided into five distinct areas or “fiber zones,” and each zone will have a specific construction schedule which was determined based off the demand expressed through providence.fibertomycity.com. A map of each of these zones can be viewed at that link. Below is an order of which areas will receive fiber first and their current status:
Zone 2 – Construction has already begun and is expected to be complete in fall 2021.
Zone 1 – Construction is anticipated to begin in October 2021
Zone 5 – Plans and timelines are still being determined
Zone 4 – Plans and timelines are still being determined
Zone 3 – Plans and timelines are still being determined
Construction is just one piece of the build-out process and there are still things that will need to take place after the construction phase before your fiber connection is complete. As work progresses, we will do our best to communicate updates with residents along the way.

Construction is just one piece of the build-out process, and these are still things that will need to take place after the construction phase before your fiber connection is complete. As work progresses, we will do our best to communicate updates with residents along the way.

The type of equipment needed will depend on the ISP that you select with your fiber connection, but generally speaking, most modern ethernet-based routers or gateways should work. Network equipment should have a 10/100/1000 ethernet interface for the WAN connection. Some ISPs will offer Managed WiFi solutions which will include network equipment with their service.

Fiber optic internet has been around for almost 60 years, and although the digital environment has changed dramatically, fiber won’t be going out of style anytime soon. Not only is fiber the best internet you can get right now, but it’s also the best option when looking to the future. Since fiber uses light to transmit its data, it loses less energy over long distances than other options. This means that fiber can carry more information much farther and much faster than is physically possible across metal cables or through air.

No, there is no plan to raise property taxes in Providence City to support the fiber optic network. Rather, the fiber optic network will support itself with the utility fee and subscribers. Additional income from the fiber optic network is anticipated and can be used to further support the city’s needs.

You may choose to continue utilizing your current ISP.

Providence City Council Member Carrie Kirk provides the answer in Part 3 video

The City has a bond to pay for the construction of the network. Financial forecasts indicate that utility and subscriber fees will cover the costs of the bond for the construction and the ongoing maintenance and operation of the fiber network. If subscription rates are greater than anticipated, the City expects a net margin that may be utilized to improve the City in a variety of ways and eventually consider dropping the basic $10 utility fee.

You might have heard that as 5G technology rolls out in the coming years; it will replace fiber. However, this is not strictly correct. Future mm-wave 5G wireless networks require the availability of a very dense fiber network at every City block. These 5G wireless networks and fiber optic networks complement each other, together offering a more cohesive internet experience across fixed and mobile applications than either could alone.

Fiber-to-the-Home could increase the value of your home by as much as $5,000, according to the Fiber-to-the-Home Council. This investment in your home means more money in your pocket. More importantly, fiber to your home means a higher quality of life for you in this digital information age, where so much of what we do to enrich our lives has moved online.

Some within the city may feel that their internet speeds are adequate but many feel that additional speeds and reliability are necessary and critical. When Eisenhower decided to push the Interstate system, it was not with the idea that everyone would have to use it. However, business and government functions were greatly improved by this massive infrastructure project. Over time, more and more people recognized its value. We need more choices and those that need fast and affordable connections should have the option.

Yes, you can combine wireless (Wi-Fi) with fiber internet although the device connection speed depends on your Wi-Fi router capabilities. The specific quality and speed of the wireless connection to your device will depend upon the type of router you are using to establish connectivity, your distance or proximity to the router, and the influence of physical barriers or interferences between your wireless device and the router.

Symmetric internet speed means that the download and upload speed are similar or the same. Many internet service providers typically market only the download speed or the speed of information you can receive in your home. These speeds are typically much greater than the upload speed that is actually received. In many cases, the upload speeds are 10 times slower or worse! With more and more demand for upload speed (e.g., computer backups to the cloud, video doorbells, cloud-based video cameras, etc.), both the download and upload speeds matter. The Providence City Fiber Network Project will provide symmetric internet speeds.

For initial offerings, the city is planning to offer 250 Mbps or 1 Gbps as symmetric internet service speeds. As the city rollout completes and the number of customers is better known, the city may choose to add additional offerings such as 2 Gbps or even up to 10 Gbps. The initial speed offerings are chosen to ensure a great customer experience and that the city has a high enough take-rate to pay for the bond. Internet speeds higher than 1 Gbps often require specialized hardware and network considerations in the home; and achieving such data rates above 1 Gbps are usually not necessary for the majority of subscribers today.  Most internet-enabled devices today can typically only support up to 1 Gbps or less. You would need a lot of high-speed devices operating simultaneously in your home to justify rates above 1 Gbps. Of course, as technology continues to progress, higher data rates may become more commonplace in the near future. Contact a Providence City fiber ISP to find out more.

Customers will call their chosen internet service provider (ISP) to resolve any issues. If the issue has to do with network operation or physical maintenance of the fiber network then the ISP will work with the city’s contracted Network Operator to resolve the issue.

There are several stages of construction required before the fiber connection can be available to your home.  The following describe the construction phases:

1. Mainline cutting and roadway construction to prepare laying conduit and fiber
2. Conduit placement and routing to the home
3. “Blowing” the fiber into the conduit (which will result in fiber lines hanging by your home temporarily)
4. The resident is then free to choose their ISP. Visit https://providence.stratafi.net/ .
5. Installation of the ONT (optical network terminal) and fiber connection testing

(Note: Steps 4 and 5 are often performed simultaneously.)

The Providence City Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) is a volunteer committee made up of citizens from Providence as well as invited experts. The TAC reviewed a large amount of information, including (but not limited to) the feasibility study by Zion’s Bank and the public-private partnership (PPP) proposal from Strata Networks. The TAC then made a first recommendation to the City Council. The City Council agreed with this recommendation which included choosing the utility model in order to maximize the benefit and minimize the risk to the citizens of Providence City.

The construction techniques planned for deployment are intended to minimize damage using various techniques such as micro-trenching and directional boring; however, some damage is likely to occur. Contractors will repair in-kind damages to infrastructure/landscaping during the deployment process.

Providence City is working towards providing a fiber optic network throughout the city. There are typically three general components to a fiber optic network, namely:

1. The Network Provider
2. The Network Operator
3. The Internet Service Provider (ISP)

Providence City has entered into a public-private partnership (PPP) proposal from Strata Networks. As part of this PPP, Strata Networks will be the Network Provider (i.e., Strata will put in the physical infrastructure). Strata Networks will also be contracted to be the Network Operator (i.e., maintain network operation) for a designated period of time which can be renewed at the city’s discretion. Internet access will be available through third-party ISPs in an “open-access” model on the Providence City Fiber Network. This means that any ISP that wants to join the network can equally utilize the fiber network to provide internet services.

The short answer is that it is unlikely that the fiber optic network itself will become obsolete in any reasonable timeline. The equipment that is used to transmit data over the fiber optic network will undergo regular maintenance and upgrades as technology improves and matures based on the income received by subscribers. Other wired technologies or wireless technologies typically also use a fiber optic network to connect to internet services at some point because of the greater speed and bandwidth capabilities provided by fiber optics. More specifically, a fiber optic network communicates by sending light waves through optical transmission lines (i.e., light pipes). Fiber optic networks allow very fast speeds because light-waves have much higher frequencies (i.e., are much higher on the electromagnetic spectrum) than other wired methods using copper (e.g., cable / DSL). Optical fiber is also a very low loss medium. Even wireless electromagnetic waves used in technologies like Wi-Fi, 5G, and satellite operate at much lower frequencies than light and therefore are more limited in transmission speed and bandwidth capabilities. To date, the speed and bandwidth limit of transmission via optical methods has not yet been achieved. Both wired and wireless technologies that are being deployed or touted as future technologies typically also require a fiber optic network connection at some point.

As with any utility, having the most capable and reliable infrastructure provides more value to the community and its residents. Having the option for substantial network and internet capacity attracts businesses that require large amounts of bandwidth for their operations. This may be the case for residential customers as well. Communities are constantly needing and demanding higher amounts of bandwidth in their homes. This has especially been true with the recent pandemic that has forced many to work remotely from home. This fiber investment prepares us all for the future.

The fiber network will provide residents with internet speeds up to 1 Gbps for an anticipated $75 per month, though this could vary slightly depending on the ISP and services you select. Additionally, an option for 250 Mbps is planned for ~$65 per month. If residents do not want or do not need the faster speeds then they will be able to receive basic internet service for the $10 utility fee included in the monthly billing statement. One notable difference in the quoted internet speeds on the Providence City Fiber Network is that these speeds will be symmetric. This means that the upload and download speed capability to the resident will be nearly equal. Most services available through cable or DSL today do not offer nor quote symmetric speeds. Usually the quoted speed is the download speed and the upload speed is substantially less (sometimes orders of magnitude less).

Both residents and businesses in Providence City will be able to access the fiber optic network. The fee to businesses is expected to be higher based on additional support that may be required to connect and maintain the businesses. The specifics have not yet been determined.

Residents will have an added amount to their standard utility bill which is used by the city to pay for the fiber infrastructure and operation. For residents that choose only the basic or no service, this amount is be $10. For residents that subscribe to a faster internet speed, the amount on the utility bill will be increased according to the subscription chosen. The internet service provider (ISP) that you choose will bill you separately for their services. The total amount billed is expected to be ~$65 for 250 Mbps service and ~$75 for 1 Gbps service – though it is possible that the billing amount from the ISP may vary depending on your chosen ISP and requested services.

Network deployment and operation will be contracted to a third-party (i.e. Strata Networks per the current public-private partnership proposal). Internet Service Providers will handle internet service to the customer. The city might need to hire additional employees or contract out labor in order to offset the extra bluestaking, inspections, and GIS needs during the deployment of the fiber network. Following network deployment the city will contract a Network Operator to handle network operation. Internet services will be handled by your chosen Internet Service Provider (ISP).

You may be referring to articles like this one from the Utah Taxpayers Association discussing the Kaysville City fiber network:
https://utahtaxpayers.org/another-utah-city-looking-to-wade-into-the-mire-that-is-municipal-fiber/

In review of this article, several numbered points from the article are brought out below. Differences or clarity for the Providence City fiber network are addressed for each.

1. The city goes into debt to finance the build out of a government owned fiber network.
   
   ○ Of course, a bond is required to build out city infrastructure. As opposed to other city infrastructure projects, this one provides the opportunity for yielding income to the city while providing residents with network options that may never otherwise become available strictly through private means. Key to a build out is the model used to ensure low risk, recognize the limits of city capabilities, and balance by encouraging enterprise opportunities through open-access.
   
   
2. A municipal fiber network represents a “government ownership of society” which has shown to be a failure in history.
   
   ○ The open-access model currently being pursued by Providence City is different from other models that seemed to have experienced failure or disappointment in other cities. The reality is that there are three main components to the development and operation of a fiber network: 1) Physical Infrastructure build-out, 2) fiber network operation and maintenance, and 3) internet service provision. Providence City recognizes the lack of expertise solely within City Staff in each of these areas and has enlisted help from its citizens with subject matter expertise as well as other field experts in the form of a “Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)”. As recommended by the TAC and approved by the City Council, the TAC has established standards and expectations for both the infrastructure and operation as well as minimum criteria for quality service through an open-access model for internet service providers (ISPs). In this model, the city will own the infrastructure (as it does water, road, and other public infrastructure) but will contract third-party businesses to operate the network (with a set of minimum quality criteria) as well as invite private ISP businesses to join the open-access network as long as they can meet basic quality requirements to ensure efficient use of the infrastructure and the resultant approval of residents for quality internet options.
   
   
3. Previous attempts at government run fiber in Utah have been a failure.
   
   ○ Providence City has the opportunity to learn from these other fiber network build outs. Some instances have been deemed failures due to the disappointment of citizens with internet service (e.g., ISP) and others have been failures due to miscommunication or preset expectations for a fiber network. Some other models bond the fiber network build out under a guarantee of subscription, however, in these same models, the city has no direct ownership / control of the network as a whole. While it is good to recognize expertise may not lie within a city, it is also important that the city can mitigate risk and has the opportunity to make modifications given that the City is bonding against the opportunity. Providence City has elected to move towards a different model which we believe will leverage outside expertise but allow reasonable control by the voice of the citizens as the fiber network is rolled out and maintained. Providence City welcomes suggestions to best improve this balance and ensure it represents a shining example for municipal fiber success.
   
   
4. Provo City failed to recognize maintenance and upkeep costs for a fiber optic network.
   
   ○ Providence City has been working closely with Strata Networks to refine the financial model based upon the City’s needs and criteria. This model accounts for network operation and maintenance including the periodic upgrades of equipment. Of course unexpected expenses can occur as they do for any individual; however, the finance model is built with the opportunity to have revenue above what is needed for maintenance. It is expected that the revenue could eventually also sustain these unexpected expenses and thus Providence City is planning to expect the unexpected. As part of this planning, the Providence City TAC has reviewed and continues to review risks and mitigation strategies to improve the chance of success.
   
   
5. Utopia is a model being touted and considered by various Utah Cities. So far Utopia “has hemorrhaged cash and amassed debt for more than a decade now”. The model used by Utopia claims that risk is mitigated to the city but this has not been the case.
   
   ○ Providence City has reviewed and considered the Utopia method and model for municipal fiber networks. After review by the City Staff, the City Council, and the TAC, this model was not recommended. Providence City has decided to pursue an alternative model that we believe will benefit Providence City citizens in the best way possible while mitigating risk to the extent possible.
   
   
6. “One of the other major flaws in the projections for the Kaysville fiber project is the “take rate” they are assuming in their financial model.” Kaysville has assumed “wildly optimistic” take rates such as “50-58%”. Actual take-rates for other cities have been “between 20% and 30%”.
   
   ○ Providence City has assumed a modest take-rate of ~14-25%. This take-rate includes consideration for a percentage of “hardship” cases for families that might not be able to afford the modest $10 per month utility fee projected. This take rate is much more inline with the quoted actual take-rates and attempts to consider “worst-case” scenarios.
   
   
7. “This idea is a solution in search of a problem. Kaysville already enjoys 99.6% broadband coverage by private industry and ranks 11th best in the state on that metric.”
   
   ○ Providence City residents currently have limited options for both internet providers as well as speed/bandwidth coverage. Furthermore, speed for broadband is often quoted as the download speed but little consideration is given for the much reduced upload speeds allowed. While this may meet some customer needs, the need for higher speeds, bandwidths, and symmetrical upload/download speed options is critical for some businesses and residents in Providence City. Furthermore, it can be expected that the need for faster speed and higher bandwidth will only increase as time goes on. This trend has been significant and will only continue. Old cable/DSL infrastructure has limited capability in this respect and a fiber optic network is the best opportunity to be able to meet these new future demands.
   
   
8. “In addition to all these specific problems, on principle, government should not be competing with private enterprise. This is particularly egregious when private industry already delivers the product or service to virtually the entire city.”
   
   ○ Options to businesses and residents are limited. Primarily, the large nationwide corporations have a near monopoly and yet utilize older infrastructure. It is unlikely that this older infrastructure will support the future needs of all residents and businesses. Providence city is not trying to compete with private businesses. Providence City is only providing the fiber-optic network (i.e., physical infrastructure) and will (at least initially) contract with Strata Networks to oversee quality network operation. The fiber network will use an “open-access” model whereby any internet service provider (ISP) can utilize the fiber optic network to provide internet services. This improves competition and results in better service, pricing, and content. This also allows smaller companies to compete that can’t afford to create their own physical network. Providence City plans to allow any ISP that wishes to join the fiber network as long as the ISP is willing to agree to basic terms which are meant to ensure quality service to residents on the fiber network.