What’s the Difference Between Fiber, Cable/Dial-Up, Satellite, and Fixed Wireless?

When it comes to getting online, you’ve got options — but not all internet is created equal. From fiber and cable to satellite and fixed wireless, each type works differently and comes with its own strengths (and drawbacks).


Whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or managing a business, it helps to understand how each connection type works so you can choose the one that truly fits your needs.


Cable / Dial-Up Internet

 

How it works: Cable internet transmits data over the same coaxial lines that deliver cable TV. Dial-up, an older technology, uses your home’s phone line to connect — and is largely outdated today.


Pros:

  • Widely available in towns and suburbs
  • Decent speeds for streaming and browsing

Cons:

  • Slower upload speeds compared to fiber or fixed wireless
  • Shared bandwidth — speeds can drop during peak hours
  • Requires cable infrastructure, not always available in rural areas

Best for: Neighborhoods with existing cable networks and moderate internet use.


Satellite Internet

 

How it works: Satellite internet sends and receives data through satellites orbiting Earth. A dish installed at your home communicates with those satellites to connect you to the internet.


Pros:

  • Available almost anywhere, even in very remote areas
  • Doesn’t require ground-based lines or towers nearby

Cons:

  • High latency (delay) — slower response times for gaming or video calls
  • Data caps and throttling are common
  • Can be affected by weather like heavy rain or snow
  • Often more expensive for lower speeds

Best for: Homes in extremely remote areas where other internet options aren’t available.


Fiber Internet

 

How it works: Fiber internet uses strands of glass or plastic fiber-optic cables to transmit data as pulses of light. It’s the fastest and most reliable technology available today, capable of speeds over 1 Gbps.


Pros:

  • Extremely fast download and upload speeds
  • Handles multiple devices with ease
  • Very reliable with low latency

Cons:

  • Limited availability — fiber lines must be physically installed in your area
  • Costly and time-consuming to expand into rural regions

Best for: Urban or suburban areas that already have fiber infrastructure.


Fixed Wireless Internet (MetaLINK’s Specialty)

 

How it works: Fixed wireless delivers internet through radio signals instead of cables. MetaLINK’s local towers send a signal to a small receiver installed at your home or business, which then connects to a router inside for fast, reliable Wi-Fi.


Pros:

  • Fast speeds suitable for streaming, gaming, and remote work
  • No underground cables — ideal for rural and suburban homes
  • Quick installation — no digging or major setup required
  • Locally maintained by MetaLINK technicians who live and work in your area

Cons:

  • Needs a clear line of sight to the tower (trees or hills can affect performance)

Best for: Rural and suburban homes or businesses that want high-speed, reliable service without waiting for fiber to reach their area.


Why MetaLINK’s Fixed Wireless Stands Out

 

At MetaLINK Technologies, we’ve invested heavily in tower upgrades and advanced wireless equipment to deliver faster speeds, stronger reliability, and greater coverage throughout Northwest Ohio, Northeast Indiana, and Southern Michigan.

Our fixed wireless internet combines the best parts of modern technology — high speed, easy setup, and local support — to keep families and businesses connected no matter where they are.

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