What is Bandwidth? 6 Tips to Increase Bandwidth

December 18, 2024 | Blog

Bandwidth is the total amount of data a network can process in a specific time. Bandwidth determines the number of devices and total activity that your network can support.

As you connect more devices and run data-intensive activities on your home network, more bandwidth is used. Eventually, your network might experience increased slowdowns, lag, and buffering.

Compared to other internet technologies, fiber internet provides significantly greater bandwidth. With better bandwidth, you can keep your household connected and running smoothly so everyone can game, stream, and use their devices without lag or slowdown.

Significance of Bandwidth

Bandwidth is essential since it determines your network’s ability to support multiple devices. For households with multiple users, bandwidth is crucial to ensure everyone’s online experience is smooth and speedy.

Imagine bandwidth like a highway where data zooms back and forth like speeding cars. The wider the highway, the more cars (data) can travel at once.

Every device that connects to your network is like another car entering this highway. Eventually, if too many cars are on the road, things will get congested and slow down.

Fiber internet can provide significantly larger bandwidth than cable, 5G, or satellite internet. With a 1 Gbps plan from Tachus, you can support up to 90 devices simultaneously!

How does Bandwidth affect your internet usage?

Bandwidth plays a big role in determining the speed and smoothness of your online activities, especially if you’re using multiple devices.

Stream without Stuttering

HD and 4K streaming require plenty of bandwidth to quickly transfer the large amounts of data used to achieve high-quality video. Bandwidth helps to reduce buffering, pixelation, and slowdowns while streaming. Plus, if you’re browsing the web on your phone or laptop, you can scroll and stream without stuttering.

Lag-free Gaming

Bandwidth is a gamer’s best friend, especially in a household with multiple players online. If you’re gaming, chatting with your friends, and streaming your gameplay, you’ll need plenty of bandwidth for a lag-free experience. Fiber internet provides gamers enough bandwidth to stomp the competition while comfortably supporting connected devices and accessories.

Business without Buffering

The last impression you want to make during an online interview, project presentation, or call with a client is a stuttering, glitchy buffer face. Fortunately, fiber internet provides plenty of bandwidth so you can put your best face forward when doing business online. Plus, you can transfer large project files while conducting business seamlessly.

Bandwidth vs. Speed

While bandwidth and internet speed seem similar, the two concepts differ.

Bandwidth measures the capacity of your network and determines the amount of data that can be processed in a given time.

Internet speed measures the rate or how fast the data travels from sender to receiver.

Going back to our highway example, bandwidth represents the size of the highway, while internet speed is how fast the cars are moving along it.

The two go together, and as capacity is used up, the download speed starts to slow down. And as more capacity becomes available, download speeds increase.

What does Low Bandwidth mean?

Low bandwidth indicates when your network’s capacity is starting to reach its limit. This results in slower internet speed and reduced performance for your devices connected to the internet. Low bandwidth can be caused by:

– Network Congestion: High traffic to a network or online service can lead to lower bandwidth and longer wait times for users.

– Number of users: If too many devices are connected to the same network, the available bandwidth can be entirely used up and cause slowdowns.

– Connection type: Your bandwidth can largely be determined by your internet technology. Connections over cable, 5G, or satellite will always have lower bandwidth than fiber optic.

How is Bandwidth measured?

Like internet speeds, bandwidth is measured in bits per second (bps). Thanks to the evolving technology, you’ll most commonly see bandwidth measured in megabits (Mbps) and gigabits (Gbps) per second.

Network engineers utilize several methods and technologies to measure bandwidth such as throughput and latency tests.

How to Increase Bandwidth

If you’re looking to free up some bandwidth and improve internet performance quickly, try a few of these suggestions:

1. Use a Wired Connection

Utilizing a wired connection for gaming consoles and smart TVs can quickly improve speeds and connection.

2. Reboot your Router

Rebooting your router can help improve performance, clear cache, and resolve any temporary issues on your device.

3. Remove devices from your network

Multiple devices can still use bandwidth while not actively in use. Background processes on your phone, computer, and smart TV can eat into bandwidth and cause a slowdown for your other devices.

4. Utilize a Mesh Network

WiFi Mesh Devices can help eliminate dead zones and improve the quality of your connection throughout the home.

5. Upgrade your Router

Routers, on average, last for around five years before needing an upgrade. Do you need a new router? Check out our blog on the warning signs of an outdated router.

6. Upgrade your Internet Plan

The fastest, most effective method to increasing bandwidth would involve upgrading your connection to a technology like fiber optic internet. Fiber internet provides significantly greater bandwidth and can support more concurrent users than cable, 5G or satellite.

More Bandwidth, Less Buffering with Tachus Fiber Internet

If you’re ready to say goodbye to low bandwidth and constant buffering, get connected with Tachus Fiber Internet today!

Experience the power of 100% pure fiber internet. Tachus offers unparalleled bandwidth ensuring blazing-fast speeds for streaming, gaming and browsing seamlessly.

Powered by symmetrical upload and download speeds, everyone in your home can connect simultaneously without sacrificing performance. Whether you’re attending virtual meetings, streaming 4K movies or gaming with your squad, Tachus provides the reliability you need.

Join over 50,000 satisfied customers who have made the switch to Tachus Fiber Internet.

Don’t settle for less – check your address and get Tachus today!

Fiber Internet Access: USA vs. the World

November 15, 2024 | Blog

Fiber internet is revolutionizing the way the world connects to the web.

With unparalleled speeds, massive bandwidth, and extremely low latency, it’s no surprise that fiber internet adoption is growing rapidly around the globe.

However, access to fiber internet varies greatly by country; how does the United States stack up?

Fiber Internet Accessibility in the United States

According to broadband statistics from the OECD, the United States lags, ranking 32nd out of 38 countries for fiber internet connectivity.

Only 23.1% of all total fixed broadband connections in the United States are through fiber internet.

In contrast, South Korea, the current number one country for fiber internet access, has a connectivity rate of 89.6%.

Our next-door neighbors, Canada and Mexico, also have much wider fiber connectivity rates at 31.8% and 64.5%, respectively.

When connecting more internet users to fiber, the United States needs to expand significantly to catch up to its contemporaries – but there are promising signs of continued growth.

Fiber Internet Connectivity Rates by Country – (Dec. 2023)

Fiber Internet Connectivity Rates by Country Presentation 3

Expanding Fiber Internet Access

In terms of growth, the United States expanded fiber internet access by 14.5% in 2023. While this is a step in the right direction, top-growing countries like Greece are taking massive leaps, expanding fiber internet access by 78.8% during the same year.

When measuring the total number of fixed broadband subscriptions, which includes Fiber, DSL, and cable, the United States ranks number #1 with over 131 million subscriptions. Considering that the US has the highest population out of any OECD nation, it makes sense that it has the highest number of fixed broadband subscriptions.

However, out of every 100 inhabitants, only 39.1 have a fixed broadband subscription in the US, ranking it 15^thout of the 38 OECD countries for internet access. France has the highest population of fixed broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants, with 47 out of every 100 inhabitants currently subscribed to an internet plan.

There are roughly 30 million active fiber internet subscriptions in the United States. If the market continues to grow at the pace of 2023, we could see fiber internet access reach nearly 43 million subscriptions by the end of 2024.

While the future of fiber is exciting to think about, it’s essential to recognize the need for widely accessible, high-speed internet in our current day.

What Internet Speeds are most common in the US?

USA Average Internet Speed Per 100 USers 4

Currently, the majority of subscribers in the US have plans that exceed at least 100 Mbps.

The US has a median download speed of 242.38 Mbps, the 6^th fastest median internet speed in the world.

61% of all fixed broadband plans are between 100 Mbps and 1 Gbps, while 18% of plans are 1 Gbps or higher.

20% of all active internet plans are below 100 Mbps. As various facets of our lives—including education, work, communication, and entertainment—become increasingly reliant on internet access, the demand for faster and more affordable connections continues to rise.

As fiber internet continues to expand, faster speeds are becoming more accessible and affordable.

Fiber Internet Access Around the World

Fiber internet makes up most connections in the OECD fixed broadband market, and it’s continuing to grow.

In 2023, fiber internet comprised 42.5% of all fixed broadband subscriptions worldwide.

Copper cable internet was the second most utilized at 29%, with DSL following third at 20.3%.

Over the upcoming years, we’ll undoubtedly see fiber internet continue to grow and expand as it becomes the global standard for high-speed internet.

The Future of Fiber

The technology behind fiber internet paves the way with unparalleled speeds, massive bandwidth, and robust network resiliency. Rapid technological advancements and increasing global adoption show a promising future for accessible, high-speed internet.

There is growing recognition in the United States for the need to provide better access to fiber internet. Work has already begun to lay the infrastructure to expand fiber accessibility across the United States. In fact, the Fiber Broadband Association estimates that the amount of fiber deployed over the next five years will nearly match the total amount deployed throughout history.

With ongoing innovations across technology, fiber internet is here to revolutionize the future of connectivity.

Experience the Future of Internet Today!

Tachus Fiber Internet aims to bring our community blazing-fast speeds and top-notch customer service.

We are closing the digital divide in our state by providing communities with 100% fiber-to-the-home internet that delivers exceptional speed and reliability, along with genuine local customer service and transparent lifetime pricing—no contracts or hidden fees involved.

Experience unparalleled symmetrical speeds, allowing for blazing-fast upload and download at the same time.

Massive bandwidth supports all your devices, so you can game, stream, browse and video chat without slowdown.

Never miss a moment with lag-free gaming. Tachus has the lowest latency internet compared to our competitors at 5ms!

Don’t settle for outdated technology. Join the fiber revolution and futureproof your home or business today – check your address and get Tachus today!

Fiber To The Home – Your Fast Lane to the Internet

October 17, 2024 | Blog

Fiber to the Home (FTTH) is a cutting-edge high-speed internet infrastructure that utilizes 100% fiber-optic cable throughout the entirety of the network, achieving unmatched performance.

While many communities still rely on copper cable broadband or hybrid connections that mix fiber and cable, these options can’t match the advantages of FTTH.

Tachus stands out by providing users with a 100% fiber-optic connection, delivering blazing-fast speeds, enhanced security and superior bandwidth.

FTTH – Not all Fiber is Equal

A fiber internet connection will always outperform broadband cable, providing faster speeds, greater bandwidth and lower latency.

However, not every fiber internet service is made the same.

While internet service providers can offer their product as “fiber internet,” that doesn’t mean you’re getting a 100% pure fiber to the home connection.

Oftentimes, ISPs use a mix of fiber-optics and already existing shared-use copper cable infrastructure. So, while you’re paying for fiber internet, your connection is still partially running over copper cable split across multiple properties.

On hybrid fiber-copper connections, you’ll still have to deal with lower bandwidth and less reliable speeds than on 100% pure fiber-optics.

It’s important to understand what type of fiber connection you’re getting when you sign up with a fiber internet provider.

Unlike our competitors, Tachus offers a 100% pure Fiber to the Home connection, which provides significant high-speed benefits!

Lightning-fast Advantages of Fiber to the Home

Bandwidth

Broadband networks share the connection across multiple properties, so when many users come online simultaneously, speeds can slow to a crawl as bandwidth is eaten up.

FTTH means that the internet you pay for is 100% powered by fiber-optics. With the fiber line connected directly to your home, you will always be able to access the full capacity of your internet plan.

Symmetrical Speeds

A 100% pure fiber connection provides users with the ability to upload and download blazing-fast at the same time.

Symmetrical speeds are excellent for businesses or users working from home who need consistent speeds to upload large files and connect with clients or customers.

Latency

Fiber internet with Tachus can achieve latency as low as 5ms! Gamers can greatly benefit from this lower latency as it reduces ping and provides a smoother experience for online games.

Security

Shared networks over broadband risk security breaches and privacy concerns more than fiber internet connections. Since fiber utilizes light to transmit data, it makes the signal significantly harder to intercept.

Because of this, many businesses utilize a direct fiber internet connection to protect their data and ensure their connection is secure.

How does FTTH work?

An FTTH connection delivers blazing-fast fiber internet directly to individual properties like your home.

The connection begins at a central hub that houses the equipment and servers that connect the network to the internet.

100% pure fiber-optic cables connect from this central location to multiple cabinets throughout the service area. The Tachus network is backed up by a series of standby generators, so if the power goes out, Tachus stays on.

From these cabinets, fiber lines continue to run throughout the various communities within the service area. These lines are installed throughout the neighborhood’s utility easements, which are located near the users’ homes.

The network team splices the fiber line throughout the utility easement and installs a “flowerpot.” Finally, when you install your internet, a fiber line is connected from the flowerpot to your home, bringing blazing-fast internet directly to your door.

From the central hub to the cabinet to the flowerpot, to your home, each step of connection utilizes pure fiber optics, creating a 100% fiber-to-the-home network.

FTTH vs. FTTC and FTTN – Why the Difference Matters

While an FTTH Network utilizes fiber optics throughout the entire connection, other fiber network types, such as Fiber to the Curb (FTTC) or Fiber to the Node (FTTN), use a mix of cable technology.

Fiber to the Curb

An FTTC connection uses fiber for most of its infrastructure from the central hub up until the “curb,” meaning a location near your home. The final connection from the curb to the house utilizes traditional copper broadband.

FTTC connections are often found in older homes where existing copper broadband was installed. While not as impressively fast as a pure FTTH connection, FTTC still provides a faster and more reliable connection than a copper broadband network.

Fiber to the Node

An FTTN connection uses fiber optics from a central hub to a local node or cabinet in a neighborhood. From the node, existing copper cable is used to complete the connection to homes and businesses in the area.

FTTN networks are beneficial to communities with already existing copper broadband infrastructure. However, they can’t match the speeds achieved by 100% FTTH.

Why does FTTH Matter?

Oftentimes, ISPs use an FTTC or FTTN connection for their customers. So, while they advertise their service as fiber internet, it may not be a 100% pure FTTH connection.

Fiber to the Home is unmatched when it comes to high-speed internet, expansive bandwidth and heightened security.

If you’re looking for a fiber connection that’s 100% yours, get started with Tachus today!

Get Blazing-Fast Internet Direct to your Front Door with Tachus

With Tachus, your internet connection is 100% pure fiber, and 100% yours!

Tachus offers 100% pure fiber to the home connections, delivering lightning-fast symmetrical upload and download speeds directly to your property!

Unlike traditional shared broadband, your Tachus connection is exclusively yours, ensuring consistent performance even during peak usage times.

Game with ultra-low 5ms latency and crush the competition.

Experience unrivaled performance and say goodbye to buffering. With blazing-fast symmetrical speeds, you can stream 4K without slowdowns.

Don’t settle for outdated internet. Join over 50,000 satisfied customers and make the switch to pure 100% fiber internet today!

Check your address to get started with Tachus Fiber Internet now!

What is Ethernet? 3 Blazing-Fast Benefits of a Wired Connection

September 25, 2024 | Blog

Ethernet is a wired internet technology that connects multiple devices to a network.

Ethernet is a powerful tool, capable of connecting small local area networks (LANs) like your home, entire cities called metropolitan area networks (MANs), and wide area networks (WANs) spanning entire countries.

The technology inside ethernet cables provides high speeds with a consistent connection, making it standard in the networking industry. Technology evolution has massively boosted ethernet speeds, with the most recent Cat 8 cables capable of achieving 40 GBPS data transfer.

Fortunately, setting up an ethernet connection for various devices in your home is inexpensive, easy, and can provide a massive benefit for a high-speed internet experience.

Ethernet vs WiFi: What’s the Difference?

When connected to your home internet, you can wirelessly connect a device via WiFi or a wired ethernet connection that plugs directly into your router.

Ethernet and WiFi both offer advantages depending on the type of device you’re connecting to your network.

In most cases, Ethernet provides faster speeds, better reliability, and steadier performance, while WiFi provides convenience and ease of use.

Advantages of Ethernet

1. Faster Speeds

An ethernet connection provides consistently faster speeds than WiFi. Personal computers can benefit from a wired ethernet connection to ensure faster download speeds than over WiFi.

2. Better Consistency

With a direct, wired connection, Ethernet can provide strong, consistent speeds that are free from interruptions or fluctuations. Regarding online gaming with fiber internet, using an ethernet connection for your device is an optimal choice for lag-free gameplay.

3. Lower Latency

Another advantage for gamers is that Ethernet provides much lower latency, also known as ping. When using a wired connection with Tachus Fiber Internet, gamers can experience some of Houston’s lowest latency at 5ms!

Advantages of WiFi

Tachus WiFi provides blazing-fast speeds and whole-home coverage for a frustration-free experience across all devices.

1. Convenience

It may be a stretch to run ethernet cables to every room in your home. WiFi allows you to connect devices without physically plugging into a cable. Devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops can be used conveniently with high speeds anywhere in your home.

2. Faster Set Up

Connecting new devices to your network using WiFi is as simple as clicking a few buttons. Setting up an ethernet connection is a bit more of a commitment, requiring running and hiding cables throughout your home.

3. Cost-effective

Setting up a strong WiFi connection for multiple devices can be much cheaper than wiring a home or office for ethernet capabilities.

While the performance gap between WiFi and Ethernet has narrowed considerably in recent years, ultimately, Ethernet maintains an edge in speed, consistency, and latency.

A wired ethernet connection to your router can provide an optimal experience for devices like gaming consoles, computers, and 4 K Smart TVs.

But connecting to WiFi is the way to go if you want convenience and a quick connection.

Is Ethernet Faster than WiFi?

Ethernet is consistently faster than WiFi, providing a more secure and stable connection.

One way to test this is by running a speed test, be sure to use a device like a computer that can connect via WiFi or Ethernet.

Test your internet speed on WiFi, then connect an ethernet cable and rerun the test.

You should see that your speeds were faster over Ethernet than WiFi.

While wireless internet, such as Mesh WiFi, provides blazing-fast speeds, strong connections, and whole-house coverage, an ethernet connection can be incredibly valuable for providing a dedicated connection to something like a gaming PC.

Does Streaming with Ethernet improve Picture Quality?

If you’re experiencing drops in picture quality while streaming over WiFi, switching to a wired ethernet connection can help better maintain a high-definition picture.

An unstable connection usually causes buffering or drops in stream quality.

Ethernet is less prone to interruptions than WiFi, so using a wired connection can help reduce buffering and maintain a steady stream quality.

A wired connection can be beneficial for 4K or 8K Ultra HD streams.

What Does an Ethernet Cable Look Like?

An ethernet cable looks like a phone cable but is a bit larger. Some distinct features help set it apart.

1. Connector

Ethernet cables generally use an RJ45 connector on both ends. Each end of the connector has 8 pins and a small clip that keeps the cable secure when plugged into a port.

2. Appearance

Ethernet cables vary in color and length and are made of PVC. The cable itself can also be flat or cylindrical.

The easiest way to identify a cable is by looking at its jacket. It typically displays some text indicating what it is, such as Cat5e or Cat6. We’ll explain the importance of these below.

3. Cable Structure

Usually, an ethernet cable contains 8 twisting cables of 4 pairs. Each cable is individually shielded, and the twisting helps to strengthen the cable, preventing damage from weight or tight bends.

4. Category

The category (or standard) of the cable determines its rated speeds and distance. Cable conductors are manufactured using Copper-Clad Aluminum or Pure Copper. The techniques utilized to make ethernet cables result in standards such as Cat5e or Cat6.

How to Run Ethernet Cable Through Your House

Before setting up your internet connection, consider which devices you want to connect via Ethernet. This will help you decide important factors such as where to place your router and how to set up your cable management.

Try these tips when running cable through your home:

1. Router Placement

If you have a device such as a gaming console, PC, or Smart TV that you want connected via Ethernet, consider its placement relative to your router.

The most convenient method for connecting via an ethernet cable is to install your router as close to this device as possible. However, if your router is in another room, don’t worry; installing a connection is still possible.

2. Determine your Cable Length

Measure the distance between your device and the router. If you’re going around corners or through walkways, leave room for extra slack.

Fortunately, ethernet cables come in many different lengths and are generally inexpensive. A 100ft ethernet cable is usually under $20 and in most cases that could provide plenty of length.

If you have multiple cables, you could use an ethernet coupler to connect them together. You could also consider an ethernet splitter to connect multiple cables to one router.

3. Cable Placement

Use a cable that is long enough so that you can run it along the corners of your home.

It’s generally best practice to place your cable flush against the bottom of the wall and use cable staples or command strips. Avoid using materials like gaffers’ tape, as they leave behind a sticky residue.

If your cable crosses through a door or walkway, consider covering the cable with a rug to prevent anyone from tripping.

Want to have your ethernet cable professionally installed? Tachus Fiber Technicians are here to optimize your home internet connection. Let us know if you have any requirements when installing your fiber internet, and our professional staff will be happy to help.

Guarantee Blazing-Fast Speeds with Tachus Fiber Internet

Whether you’re connected over WiFi or Ethernet, Tachus Fiber Internet offers a high-speed, frustration-free experience across all devices.

Experience picture-perfect streaming quality. Thanks to Tachus’ blazing-fast speeds and high bandwidth, you can stream seamlessly in Ultra HD.

With an average of 5ms latency, Tachus Fiber Internet provides incredible speeds and strong stability. Enjoy consistent connectivity with minimal lag and interruptions, whether gaming, streaming, or video conferencing.

Our expert staff and technicians are here to optimize your connection and keep you online. We provide a frustration-free installation and personalized set-up so you can game, stream, or browse exactly as you need.

Ready for an upgrade? Check your address to see if Tachus is available in your area today!

Staying Connected During Inclement Weather with Tachus

September 11, 2024 | Blog

Keeping your connection secure to communicate with loved ones and any necessary services is our priority during any inclement weather events.

Whether it’s freezes, hurricanes, or anything else Houston throws our way, we’re here to ensure that your internet remains online.

This article intends to demonstrate the best ways you can prepare to keep your connection online during a hurricane, freeze or any other inclement weather event.

Keeping your Connection while your Power is Out

We’ve seen bad weather before. But even if your power goes down, Tachus will remain online.

Throughout Hurricane Beryl and the following weeks of power restoration, the Tachus network stayed online, providing families the internet services they needed to stay informed and in touch.

This is because fiber internet is effectively weatherproof, providing consistent service even during Houston’s most inclement weather.

Our network is installed underground and supported by a series of backup generators. This allows Tachus customers to utilize their service during inclement weather events if their homes are powered by commercial or generator electricity.

However, certain homes on generator power can have difficulty connecting to the Tachus network. Here are some best practices to stay connected during inclement weather.

Hurricane Season Key Takeaways 1920 x 1920 px 1920 x 1220 px

Generators – Dirty vs. Clean Power

It’s important to note the difference between the type of power your generator can supply. While your generator may be able to keep your lights on, it is most likely supplying dirty power.

“Dirty power” refers to electrical power that is of poorer quality caused by fluctuations, noise, voltage spikes or other issues. While this type of power will keep your lights and heating on, it can affect the performance of sensitive electronic systems like modems and routers, causing them to disconnect from the network.

“Clean power” is the type of power you receive from your commercial provider. It’s steady and free from interruption or irregularities. The delicate electronic components within your modem and router need clean power to adequately operate and connect to the network.

Providing clean power to your modem and router is crucial for staying connected to the network.

How to get Clean Power while running a Generator

One of the best solutions to providing electronic devices with clean power is to use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) with Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) when using your generator.

A UPS is a device that provides backup power to electronic devices when your commercial energy goes offline. It can be charged and store hours of energy, allowing you to connect multiple devices while there’s no power to your home.

Importantly, a UPS with AVR can help filter and stabilize the energy output from your generator, protecting your electronic devices from surges while providing a clean power connection for your internet equipment to stay online.

A UPS with AVR can be a beneficial investment for those utilizing generators during an inclement weather event. By ensuring a connection to clean power, you can easily connect to the Tachus network.

Check out some options for a UPS with AVR on Amazon.

Equipment Recommendations for Maintaining your Connection during a Power Outage

Generator Solutions: Inverter vs Portable

Inverter generators can provide clean energy for your devices. They are quieter, smaller and provide more consistent voltage than portable generators, however they are more expensive.

Portable generators can power your home but usually provide dirty energy which can cause difficulty connecting your Tachus modem and router. That’s why we recommend using an Uninterruptible Power Supply with AVR to power your equipment if using a portable generator.

Check out Home Depot’s generator buying guide to see which option is right for you.

Portable Power Stations

Your modem and router can also connect to a portable power station. These devices are useful since they are lightweight, rechargeable and can provide clean power to efficiently connect your modem and router to the Tachus network.

Portable power stations are versatile since they can maintain power to your modem and router while refueling or performing maintenance on your generator. They can hold onto battery life for hours and efficiently power your modem and router.

We recommend portable power stations from EcoFlow.

Rebooting your Modem and Router

If you’re still having trouble after connecting your Tachus devices to a generator and UPS, try rebooting your modem and router to potentially solve any connectivity issues.

Remove the power connection from both your modem and WiFi router.

Wait 2 minutes and connect the power back to your modem (the larger black device with the thin fiber cord).

After the modem completes power up, connect the power back to your WiFi router.

Please allow 2 minutes for your WiFi router to complete start up process.

If you are experiencing trouble only on a specific device (like a TV) that connects to your WiFi, also reboot that device after you have completed the steps above.

If you continue to experience trouble with your Tachus internet service, please contact Tachus Customer Support via email.

Otherwise, please call if necessary and we will support you as quickly as we can.

Communicating with Tachus about Service

We at Tachus work diligently to service our customers and reestablish connections as quickly as possible.

If you need service during an inclement weather event, making a support ticket online will ensure that your request is seen and serviced faster than over the phone.

We guarantee that your service request will be attended to and completed as expeditiously as possible.

Make a service request here: https://tachus.com/contact/

If you’re unable to connect to the internet, please give us a call at 832-791-1100

Stay Storm-Ready with Tachus Fiber Internet

No more second guessing. With Tachus Fiber internet, you can keep your connection throughout the storm.

As Houstonians, we understand the uncertainty that inclement weather can bring to our city.

Our top priority is keeping our communities connected, and we ensure that our resilient, weatherproof, fiber-optic network will keep you online, regardless of what Mother Nature throws our way.

Get ahead of the storm, check and see if Tachus Fiber Internet is available in your area today!

What Internet Speed do I Need – The Ultimate Guide

August 27, 2024 | Blog

From smart TVs and gaming devices to videocalls and remote work, determining the internet speed you need is important to keeping your home connected and running fast.

Choosing the speed that’s best for you is based on several factors, such as the number of users in your household, what devices you have connected and what you’re using the internet for.

This guide will breakdown everything you need to know about choosing the best internet speed for you.

A graph breaking down different internet speeds

300 Mbps Internet

300 Mbps internet is a good speed for households with two to three users that want a stable connection and aren’t performing data-heavy activities across multiple devices.

For example, a 300 Mbps connection can comfortably maintain a strong speed if you were streaming TV while using two phones or laptops connected to the internet

Is 300 Mbps Fast?

Yes, 300 Mbps provides a good speed for users connecting around 3-5 devices simultaneously. Users shouldn’t experience much buffering or long load times on a 300 Mbps connection.

However, as more devices are connected, like gaming consoles, smart TVs and security systems, speeds can start to slow.

How Fast is 300 Mbps?

A 300 Mbps internet connection can download 1 GB of data in about 3.5 seconds.

Common download times:

50 Gig video game in roughly 3 minutes
4 Gig HD movie in roughly 30 seconds

Is 300 Mbps Good for Gaming?

As a dedicated connection, 300 Mbps can provide a good internet speed for a gaming device, especially if connected via an ethernet cable.

However, if there are multiple devices and users connected at the same time, you could possibly experience some lag and higher ping.

A speed of 300 Mbps can provide a solid gaming experience, but the best results may require a wired connection and to remove a few devices when online.

600 Mbps Internet

600 Mbps Internet is a great connection for households of two to four users, providing strong bandwidth to power multiple devices simultaneously.

A 600 Mbps connection will provide good speeds to stream your favorite shows buffer-free, game without lag, and browse the web on multiple phones or laptops.

Is 600 Mbps Fast?

Users can enjoy 600 Mbps speed and bandwidth to support multiple devices without slowdown.

However, getting the best results for certain high-data usage devices, like 4K streaming or online gaming, may require a wired connection or to temporarily remove some devices.

How Fast is 600 Mbps?

A 600 Mbps internet connection can download 1 GB of data in about 1-2 seconds.

Common download times:

50 Gig video game in roughly 1.5 minutes
4 Gig HD movie in roughly 15 seconds

Is 600 Mbps Internet good for Gaming?

A 600 Mbps connection is great for gaming, especially if connected directly via an ethernet cable.

If you’re connected wirelessly, 600 Mbps can still provide a great connection, but you may want to consider removing a few devices to optimize your speed.

Ultimately, 600 Mbps can deliver gamers the high-speed connection they need to be competitive while providing enough bandwidth to support multiple devices simultaneously.

1 Gig Internet

1 Gig internet provides an excellent connection for households running multiple high-data usage devices simultaneously.

For example, you could use multiple devices with heavy-data usage, like smart TVs and gaming consoles without slowdown or buffering.

Remote workers can benefit greatly from a 1 Gig connection, providing extremely fast upload and download times for large project files and a consistent connection for important video calls.

Is 1 Gig Internet Fast?

1 Gig internet is incredibly fast, ensuring a smooth and speedy connection free from lag, buffering and long load times. With plenty of bandwidth, you can keep everyone connected and powered up with high speeds.

How Fast is 1 Gig Internet?

A 1 Gig internet connection can download 1 GB of data every second.

Common download times:

50 Gig video game in roughly 50 seconds
4 Gig HD movie in roughly 4 seconds

Is 1 Gig Internet good for Gaming?

1 Gig internet is excellent for gamers who are ready to leave lag in the dust.

With 1 Gig internet, gamers can massively reduce their ping, giving them the upper hand in any online duel.

Greater bandwidth also provides users with more flexibility to download updates while gaming, connect additional devices and stream their gameplay for their friends and fans.

Thanks to fiber’s symmetrical speeds, Tachus provides gamers with some of the lowest latency internet available, providing a snappy, responsive experience.

2.5 Gig Internet

2.5 Gig internet is excellent for households with high-speed needs.

Users can simultaneously connect multiple high data usage devices, such as 4K streaming TVs, cloud gaming consoles, security systems and smart home appliances – all without lag or slowdown.

2.5 Gig provides remote professionals, like graphic designers, video editors, and engineers with reliably fast speeds to rapidly transfer large files while digitally interfacing with their teams and clients.

Is 2.5 Gig Internet Fast?

2.5 Gig is some of the fastest internet available. Massive technological advancements have seriously pushed the capabilities of fiber internet, bringing unmatched speeds to the market.

How fast is 2.5 Gig Internet?

2.5 Gig internet can provide users with a connection far surpassing what they had before.

Common download times:

50 Gig video game in roughly 20 seconds
4 Gig HD movie in roughly 1 second

Is 2.5 Gig Internet Good for Gaming?

Yes, 2.5 Gig internet will provide gamers with a premier experience, providing smooth gameplay that’s completely lag-free.

2.5 Gig’s impressive bandwidth can allow for multiple users to game simultaneously while maintaining an incredibly low ping.

Streamers and content creators can take advantage of blazing-fast symmetrical speeds to game online, broadcast their stream, and interact with fans, all without buffering or stuttering

5 Gig Internet

For power users who are ready to leave load times in the past, 5 gig internet’s lightning-fast speeds provides an unparalleled experience.

Say goodbye to buffering while achieving crystal-clear picture quality with revolutionary technology like 8K streaming.

Graphic designers, editors and professional content creators can immensely speed up their workflow. 5 Gig’s symmetrical speeds empower users to upload and download massive files like Ultra HD Video projects simultaneously and without slowdown.

Perfect for tech enthusiasts looking to future proof their homes, 5 Gig internet is trail-blazing technology, providing a glimpse into the high-speed possibilities of fiber internet.

How Fast is 5 Gig Internet?

5 Gig internet is the cutting-edge of high-speed residential internet.

50 Gig video game in roughly 10 seconds
4 Gig HD movie in roughly 1 second

Entire terabytes of data (equal to 1,000 gigabytes) can be transferred in roughly 3 minutes.

Is 5 Gig Internet good for Gaming?

With 5 Gig internet, the competition won’t even know what hit them.

Achieve seamless online gameplay, near instant downloads, and essentially nonexistent ping with incredible speeds designed to handle anything that’s thrown at it.

With enough bandwidth to support multiple high-data usage devices, you can host your entire squad to dominate online games.

What else do I need when choosing my speed?

Now that you’ve chosen the internet speed that’s right for you, it’s important to look at any equipment you’ll need to optimize your connection. This equipment will include two important systems: your router and any WiFi Mesh devices.

Choosing your Router

Your router broadcasts a wireless signal throughout your home, connecting all your devices to the network.

When choosing your router, you’ll want to ensure that it is

Fiber compatible
Capable of broadcasting your chosen speed
Mesh WiFi compatible (recommended)

With Tachus Smart WiFi, you can ensure your wireless connection is optimized, high-speed and worry-free.

Why Mesh WiFi is Important

Mesh WiFi improves your wireless connection, providing whole-home coverage and eliminating dead-zones.

Unlike a traditional router that only broadcasts via a single device, mesh WiFi utilizes multiple devices spread throughout your home. These devices relay your wireless signal, boosting your connection and delivering strong speeds.

Check out our guide on Fiber Internet Equipment for more detailed information.

Get the Speed you Need and the Customer Service you Deserve with Tachus

Ready to drop dead-zones, leave lag in the past and to finally say goodbye to buffering? Tachus Fiber Internet is here to provide you with the 100% frustration-free experience you deserve.

Our expert technicians and service representatives are ready to install and optimize your home internet. Providing top-notch service and ensuring a reliable connection for any speed you need.

Featuring Houston’s lowest latency internet, Tachus ensures blazing-fast speeds with minimal ping.

Unlike our competitors, we don’t believe in any contracts, data caps, or hidden costs. Tachus ensures lifetime pricing for all our customers, so what you pay for your plan on day one NEVER changes!

Our network is underground and unbothered. Generators keep our network powered up and running, so you never worry about thunderstorms, hail or other inclement weather taking you offline.

But don’t just hear it from us, with 4.9 stars and over 4,000 reviews on Google, find out why customers love Tachus – and make the switch today!

Check to see if Tachus is available in your area and get the blazing-fast speed you need today!

What Equipment Do I Need for Fiber Internet?

August 12, 2024 | Blog

While finding the right equipment for Fiber Internet can seem like a technical and complicated process, it’s actually quite simple! Check out our list below to make sure you have everything you need before your fiber internet installation.

Fiber Internet Equipment – What You Need

There are only a handful of devices that you need before getting set up with fiber internet.

While you can provide your own compatible equipment, with Tachus Smart WiFi, you can have an all-in-one wireless system that is set-up and optimized to suit your internet needs on day one!

However, if you choose to provide your own equipment when upgrading to Tachus, check out our equipment checklist below.

Router

When upgrading your connection to fiber internet, make sure your router is compatible, as it connects directly to the fiber cable, translating the signal to broadcast WiFi throughout your home. Unlike traditional cable routers, a fiber router, such as Tachus Smart WiFi router, is specifically designed to handle the high speeds of fiber internet, offering the fastest available speeds.

WiFi Mesh Devices

Certain routers can have their signal boosted by connecting to Mesh WiFi devices. Some routers are already integrated with WiFi mesh while others are sold separately. These devices are spread throughout your home and help relay your signal. WiFi mesh is especially helpful eliminating dead zones in your home where your connection to the web may be spotty.

Ethernet Cables

Ethernet cables deliver blazing fast connections directly to your devices. While Tachus Smart WiFi can provide high-speed, wireless internet coverage throughout your home, certain devices like gaming consoles can benefit from a direct, wired connection, especially for those large game downloads.

What to Look for with your Fiber Internet Router

If you decide that you want to purchase and provide your own internet router, here are a few specifications that we recommend.

Fiber Compatibility

Be sure that the router you choose is capable of a fiber-optic connection. If your previous router utilized a 5G, cable or satellite connection, it will most likely not be compatible with fiber optics.

WiFi Speed

Your internet speed will only be as fast as your router allows it. Double check that your router’s WiFi speed matches or exceeds the speeds of the plan you choose. If you have a 5 GBPS plan but your router is only capable of 1 GBPS WiFi, you’ll bottleneck and severely limit your wireless speeds.

Mesh WiFi Compatible

If you want to ensure whole-home coverage, purchase a router that is bundled with an integrated Mesh WiFi system or is at least compatible with Mesh WiFi. Depending on factors like your price point, home size and chosen speeds, purchasing a router that isn’t mesh compatible could make sense for you too. But we recommend Mesh WiFi compatibility to ensure the fastest and most stable connection.

Can I Add Mesh WiFi to an Existing Router?

Yes, it’s possible to connect mesh WiFi devices to an existing router if it is compatible. Generally, routers with integrated mesh devices can have slightly better performance, but it’s still a worthwhile upgrade to eliminate dead zones.

Do I need a Modem for Fiber Internet?

Fiber internet uses an Optical Network Terminal (ONT), an advanced piece of equipment that coverts light signals into data. This ONT will be provided and installed by your technician when you upgrade to Tachus.

Do I need any Equipment for the Fiber Installation?

All installation equipment will be provided and set up by your Fiber Technician when you sign up for Tachus Fiber Internet. Our team will treat your home with care and will be sure to answer any questions or meet any specifications you require.

Likewise, if you add Tachus Smart WiFi to your plan, your technician will install and optimize your mesh router system for whole-home coverage!

Learn more about our installation process here or give us a call if you have any questions.

Get Blazing-Fast Speeds with Tachus-Powered Equipment

If you’re ready for high-speed fiber internet without the equipment hassle, let Tachus handle the tech!

Tachus Smart WiFi powered by Plume HomePass is an all-in-one WiFi solution that’s optimized for blazing-fast speeds on day one.

Skip the technical jargon and get:

A sophisticated fiber internet router capable of achieving speeds up to 5GBPS.
WiFi mesh devices designed to provide whole-home wireless coverage.
Professional installation, WiFi set up and optimization to ensure blazing-fast speeds.
24/7 customer support that includes any potential repairs or replacements.

When choosing the equipment you need, leave the hassle at the door with your old internet. For a frustration-free, high-speed wireless experience, check your address and sign up for Tachus Fiber Internet today!

Unlock the Future of Cloud Gaming with Fiber Internet

August 6, 2024 | Blog

Today, more than ever, internet connectivity is a crucial aspect of the gaming experience.

As cloud-based gaming services and applications become increasingly popular, the need for reliable and high-speed internet has become more significant for gamers.

Fiber internet provides cloud gamers with the high-speed, low-latency connection they need for lag free gameplay. If you’re ready to experience the latest in cloud gaming technology, fiber internet’s blazing-fast speed provides the connection you need.

Why Fiber is the Future of Cloud Gaming - Tachus Fiber Internet. Experience uninterrupted streaming of your favorite games with blazing-fast download speeds. Higher bandwidth allows simultaneous transmission of large amounts of data, ensuring smooth support for your devices. Using light to transmit data, fiber provides low latency, eliminating lag and ensuring smooth gameplay. Fiber lines are less affected by electromagnetic interference, providing a more reliable connection for cloud gaming.

What is Cloud Gaming?

Cloud gaming operates like a streaming service for video games. Instead of downloading large files and running games on your own devices, cloud gaming lets players stream games via the internet.

How does Cloud Gaming work?

When you log into cloud gaming, you connect to gaming hardware via the internet that processes, renders and runs the game for you.

Your device at home isn’t the system performing the game. Instead, you stream the gameplay to your screen while another system runs the game.

The servers that power cloud gaming use top-of-the-line hardware that provide high-quality graphics and connectivity. This can be incredibly beneficial for gamers who want to have cutting-edge experiences but may not have the hardware to process them at home.

Likewise, many cloud gaming platforms offer hundreds of games to try out, giving gamers the opportunity to explore a variety of experiences.

Why is my Cloud Gaming Lagging?

While cloud gaming offers an affordable solution for gamers who may not have the latest hardware, a strong internet connection is necessary for the best gaming experience.

Cloud gaming can sometimes lag due to slow internet speeds, high latency, or a lack of bandwidth. All actions and gameplay moments are streamed to your device through your internet connection, so if your signal isn’t providing the speed you need, lagging can occur.

Why Fiber Internet is a Game Changer for Cloud Gaming

Fiber internet, also known as fiber-optic internet, utilizes fiber-optic cables to transmit data using light signals. This groundbreaking technology offers unparalleled speed, high bandwidth, and extremely low latency, making it an ideal solution for cloud gamers.

High Bandwidth for Cloud-Based Gaming

Fiber internet offers unparalleled bandwidth, ensuring that gamers can enjoy a wide range of online gaming experiences without lag or slowdowns.

Other types of internet, such as 5G or broadband, can see massive slowdowns if other devices in your home are connected while you’re cloud gaming.

Fiber internet, such as Tachus 1 Gig, can support up to 90 devices seamlessly, keeping you and everyone else in your household connected with blazing-fast speeds.

From fast-paced first-person shooters to massive multiplayer online role-playing games, fiber internet supports it all. Fiber internet’s impressive bandwidth sets it apart from traditional broadband connections, providing cloud gamers the support they need to play lag-free.

Low Latency for Lag Free Gameplay

Latency, or ping, is the time it takes for your devices to send and receive signals from the internet. When latency is high, slowdowns and laggy gameplay can be expected. Maintaining a low latency is crucial for cloud gaming, since all your gameplay actions are sent over the internet and streamed back to you.

Tachus provides a gamer’s secret weapon with some of the lowest latency internet available. With a 7ms average latency, Tachus keeps cloud gamers connected with snappy, high-speed gameplay.

Reliability You Can Count On

Fiber-optic cables are less susceptible to interference and signal degradation, resulting in a more stable and consistent connection, even during peak usage times. This reliability is crucial for cloud gamers who need an uninterrupted connection to stay competitive.

No more lag breaking your game, just a solid connection for seamless cloud gaming.

Future-Proof Your Gaming Internet

As online gaming and e-sports continue to gain prominence, fiber internet ensures gamers can enjoy the latest cloud-based experiences without compromise. Gamers can be assured that they’ll have the connection capable of providing the latest and greatest gaming experiences.

Likewise, fiber internet reduces maintenance, repair, and equipment replacement costs over time, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, high-speed solution.

It’s Game On with Tachus Fiber Internet

Tachus Fiber Internet is the top-tier choice for gamers looking to embrace the future of internet connectivity and unlock the full potential of cloud-based gaming.

If you’re an online gaming enthusiast looking to enhance your gaming experience, make the switch to fiber internet powered by Tachus.

Enjoy blazing-fast speeds and seamless streaming while experiencing the cutting-edge in cloud gaming.

Go lag-free with ultra-low latency delivering smooth, snappy gameplay.

Support your household with enough bandwidth to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

Take your online gaming adventures to a whole new level, click here to visit our address checker and find out if Tachus is available in your neighborhood.

What is Mesh WiFi?

August 1, 2024 | Blog

Mesh WiFi is a wireless internet connection system designed to boost your signal, eliminate dead-zones and provide blazing-fast internet.

Why is my Upload Speed so Slow?

July 22, 2024 | Blog

When thinking about fast internet, download speeds usually come to mind first.

But your connection to the web is a two-way street, and fast upload speeds are crucial to ensuring a smooth experience online.

Unless you’re already on a fiber optic connection, seeing that your upload speeds are significantly slower than download can be frustrating.

But what exactly causes slow upload speeds? Most of the time, it’s either your ISP limiting bandwidth or the internet technology you have equipped.

While slow upload speeds can sometimes be out of your control, you can take a few steps to optimize your connection.

Upload vs. Download – What’s the Difference?

Both upload and download speeds keep you connected to the web, but how do they work, and what’s the difference?

Download

Download speeds determine how fast your devices can receive data from websites, game servers, or streaming services. If loading a website takes a long time or your favorite show constantly buffers, consider upgrading or optimizing your download speeds.

Upload

Upload speeds determine how quickly you can transfer data from your device to the internet. Slow upload speeds are to blame if you sound choppy during video calls or transferring files takes forever.

Why are Upload Speeds Important?

Upload speeds keep your connection fast and smooth while making video calls, posting content, and transferring large files like photos or videos.

Upload speeds are especially important for keeping your ping low and your connection responsive while gaming online. If you’re live streaming your gameplay, a good upload speed is necessary to keep your broadcast running smoothly for your fans.

Why is Upload Speed Slower than Download?

Most internet services provide upload speeds that are slower than download speeds. Between the network’s bandwidth and technology, there are a few reasons why your upload speeds are so slow.

Lack of Bandwidth from your ISP

Since there is generally less demand for uploading, ISPs will artificially limit speeds to save on their network’s bandwidth, causing uploads to process very slowly, especially during peak usage hours.

Multiple Devices on your Network

While your ISP may already have limited bandwidth, having too many devices connected to your internet can slow down upload speeds for your entire household. By taking some devices off your network, you may see improved speeds.

Equipment Issues

Equipment like cables, routers, and device placement all affect upload speeds. If any of these components malfunction, your speeds can slow down. By troubleshooting and optimizing your setup, you can improve your upload speed.

Network Technology

Due to their technology, certain types of internet, like copper cable, 5G, or satellite, cannot achieve blazing-fast upload speeds. But thanks to the technology behind fiber optic cable, you can achieve upload speeds that are just as fast as downloading.

How can I improve my Upload Speeds?

Try these steps to improve upload speeds:

Use an Ethernet Cable

A dedicated ethernet connection will improve upload and download speeds in nearly all circumstances.

If you’re experiencing slow upload speeds on ethernet and Wi-Fi, your equipment may be the issue.

Check your Equipment

While your average ethernet cable can last for around five years, normal wear and tear can eventually cause components to fail or the connecting ends to become loose.

Likewise, your device’s ports might not provide a stable enough connection. Make sure the connections are clear of any dust and aren’t damaged.

Try plugging a new cable directly into your device and router, then run a speed test to see if your upload speed has improved. In most cases, this should help you see faster upload speeds, but if you’re still experiencing issues, it’s time to look at your router.

Update your Drivers

Internet equipment like your router uses software to optimize performance and connect to the internet. This software, known as a driver, needs to be updated every so often to ensure a smooth experience. You can download driver updates from the website of your router’s manufacturer.

Check your Router

A router’s lifespan is usually around five years. If you’ve had yours for a while, you may want to check for signs that it’s time to replace it.

Check the router’s ethernet ports to make sure they are clear of any dust or damage. Try plugging in your ethernet cable to another ethernet port, reset your system and run another test.

Contact your ISP

Finally, if you’re still not achieving the upload speeds that you’re paying for, get in contact with your ISP. Find out your expected upload speeds and request customer service if you are not getting the speeds you need.

Which internet has the Fastest Upload Speed?

Fiber optic internet has the fastest upload speeds of any type of connection.

Upload Speeds 1320 x 1080 px Presentation 2

Cable: 20-30 Mbps Upload

Satellite: 5-50 Mbps Upload

5G: 15-50 Mbps Upload

Fiber: 100 – 5,000+ Mbps Symmetrical Upload Speeds

How are Symmetrical Speeds Possible?

The technology behind fiber internet cable allows it to achieve symmetrical speeds, which means you can upload and download at the same time.

Light signals in fiber optic cable can travel both ways at the same time. So, while your device is receiving signals from a server, it can send signals at the same time.

This is much different from other types of internet. For example, internet over coax cable cannot download and upload at the same time since a signal can only travel in one direction at a time on the cable.

Do I need good Upload Speeds for Gaming?

With a good upload speed, you can ensure that your ping remains low, keeping your gameplay responsive and your competitors on their toes.

Data is sent from your device to the server whenever you act in an online game. The time it takes that data to reach the server and for the server to send a signal back is called ping.

This all happens in milliseconds, but high ping can cause choppy gameplay and interrupt your most crucial moments.

A good upload speed ensures that your device’s communication with the server is as quick as possible, improving your connection to the game.

Want the Best Upload Speeds? Get Tachus Today!

Tachus Fiber Internet provides a top-tier internet connection for gamers. Featuring Houston’s lowest latency internet available, Tachus is here to help you crush the competition.

Ready for the fastest upload speeds? With our 100% pure fiber-optic network, Tachus provides blazing-fast uploads at 5 GBPS!

Upgrade to Tachus Fiber Internet today and unlock the best upload speeds that can go head-to-head with download! Tachus provides the perfect internet for users who need swift data transfers and gamers looking for a competitive edge.

Don’t settle for slow uploads – see if Tachus is available for a lightning-fast online experience today!