The Benefits of Switching to Fibre Optic Internet

Posted on 20 September 20249 November 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

Fibre optic Internet uses light through glass Fibres to deliver far higher speeds and steadier performance than copper ADSL, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, remote work and business continuity.

Why would you NOT want to make use of the speed of light?

Because let’s face it: nothing in the current known universe is faster.

Except for The Flash, who can apparently run 13 trillion times faster than the speed of light.

The DC Universe aside, the speed of light is an amazing thing. According to Einstein’s theory of relativity, it’s the fastest speed in the universe: 300,000 kilometres per second in optimal circumstances.

It’s even more amazing to think it can be used to power our Internet usage.

But this only happens if your Internet service provider is using Fibre Optic cables. If your service provider is still using copper lines as the (much) older technology, Internet at the speed of light is completely out of the question.

How Fast Do You Want to Go?

Internet speed means the speed at which information or Data travels from the web to your connected device. It’s calculated in megabits per second (Mbps) and the downloading speed (getting information from the Internet to your device) is often higher than the uploading speed (the other way around – sending information from your device to the Internet).

In the old days, our Internet connections were only able to run on ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line). ADSL uses telephone lines (Telkom lines) to transmit Data along copper cables from your nearest telephone exchange to your home or office. These are frequently unreliable and heavily shared among users – which slows down the possible speed of your connection.

Two factors slow down ADSL speed significantly:

Distance:The further away you are from the exchange, the greater the distance the Data has to travel, and the slower your Internet.
Traffic:When copper cables experience more traffic, the wires heat up and the connection slows.

It’s a bit like driving on the highway: when you’re the only driver on the road, you can reach a very satisfying speed, but when it gets crowded, traffic slows down. ADSL can provide average speeds of approximately 4Mbps.

In contrast, Fibre Optic technology transmits Data as light impulses along flexible glass Fibres, enabling users to achieve speeds that are about 500 to 1,000 times faster than your average ADSL line. So how does the marvellous invention of Fibre Optic cables use this speed for Internet services?

Fun fact: The first actual Fibre Optic cable was invented in 1952 by UK-based Indian-American physicist, Narinder Singh Kapany, who was a pioneer in the field of Fibre Optics and popularised the term.

Harnessing the Speed of Light for Communications

Fibre to the Home (FTTH) and Fibre to the Business (FTTB) services use Optical Fibre to deliver high-speed Internet directly to individual buildings. These Fibre Optic cables, composed of strands of glass, transmit Data using light pulses. Users can achieve incredible speeds of up to 1,000Mbps.

Some of the benefits of Fibre Optics include the following:

High speed: Starting with the most obvious point, Fibre Optics brings you the best available speed within the current Internet landscape.
Reliability: Lots of ‘hiccups’ take place during transmission in a copper cable Internet, all the time. With Fibre Optic Internet, a smooth and constant flow of Data means this no longer happens.
- Fun fact: This is important for gamers, where a small blip at the wrong moment can lose the game.
No difference between upload and download speeds: Depending on your needs, you can choose an Internet package that gives you symmetrical speeds for both downloading and uploading. With ADSL copper cables, this isn’t possible (it’s in the name, after all: Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line).
Connecting multiple devices: The steady signal, with more bandwidth, means you can connect with multiple tablets, laptops, smart TVs and phones at once. Even with different people streaming music and video simultaneously, Fibre Optics can handle the load.
Safety and security: Unlike copper wires, Fibre Optic cables have no second-hand value for criminals, which means cables are not usually targeted for theft. They are also much less easy for cybercriminals to hack.
Higher quality: Ultra High-Definition TVs pack significantly more pixels into the same area, which makes for better images, but also uses more bandwidth. For Fibre Optic networks, it’s not a problem.
Consistent reliability: Fibre Optic cables are less susceptible to interference from weather conditions or other devices, so you’re less likely to experience outages or slow speeds on your network during peak usage times.

It’s clear that Fibre Optic networks are capable of much greater speeds and bandwidth than copper-based ADSL. In recent years, prices have also come down substantially.

Why not look into Fibre to the Home from Vox? Just plug in your home address and a map will show you all our Connectivity options available in your area.

What are you waiting for? Move towards the light!

FAQs

Q: How fast is Fibre compared to ADSL?
A: Fibre commonly delivers speeds up to 1 000Mbps and can provide symmetrical upload/download rates; ADSL typically delivers much lower, asymmetric speeds that decline with distance from the exchange.

Q: Can Fibre handle multiple devices streaming at once?
A: Yes, Fibre offers greater bandwidth and steadier throughput, so multiple users can stream, game and work simultaneously without noticeable slowdowns.

Q: Is Fibre more secure than copper?
A: Fibre is harder to tap and has little resale value for thieves, making it more secure physically. It also supports network configurations (VLANs) that improve data separation and security.

Q: What’s the difference between Vox Fibre to the Home and Vox Fibre to the Business?
A: Vox Fibre to the Home targets residential customers with high‑speed packages for streaming and everyday use. Vox Fibre to the Business offers dedicated options, lower contention ratios, VLANs and support packages tailored to commercial needs.

Q: How do I check if Vox Fibre is available in my area?
A: Plug in your home address on the Vox availability page and select ‘Connect me’ to check availability and see current connectivity options for your location.

5G’s Role in Enhancing Business Communications and Operations

Posted on 26 August 202424 November 2025 by Chris Boshoff

Not Just Entertainment: The Future of 5G in Business Communications

5G was developed to handle the growing demand for data and deliver faster, more efficient mobile networks. In doing so, it brings major improvements to how we connect, work, and communicate. While most people get excited about 5G for entertainment — lightning-fast downloads or smoother gaming — the real game-changer lies in what 5G can do for business communications and business operations.

Why Effective Communication Still Decides Business Success

Business communication — internal and external — is the backbone of operational success. When communication is strong, companies see higher productivity, quicker problem-solving, better relationships, and healthier company culture.

DecisionWise, a global consulting firm, found:

Companies with low employee engagement earn 32.7% less in operating income compared to engaged companies.
Companies with a highly engaged workforce see operating income rise by 19.2% within 12 months.

The message is simple: when communication improves, engagement improves, and the bottom line follows.

How 5G Transforms Business Communications

5G theoretically delivers up to 20Gbps download speeds, 10Gbps uploads, and latency as low as 4ms. Tests in South Africa reached average speeds around 250Mbps, equivalent to high-end fibre.

Its biggest strengths — speed, latency, bandwidth and efficiency — directly improve how companies communicate, collaborate, and operate.

1. Faster Speeds for Instant Collaboration

5G can reach speeds up to 100x faster than 4G LTE.
This means:

Faster file transfers
Smoother video calls with clients and teams
Instant software updates
Faster access to cloud platforms and business tools

For fast-paced businesses, speed equals efficiency.

2. Ultra-Low Latency for Real-Time Performance

Latency is the time it takes data to travel from point A to point B. With 5G, latency drops to 1 millisecond — compared to 30–50ms on 4G.

Ultra-low latency benefits:

Real-time communication tools
Live collaboration
AI-driven decision-making
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications
Data-heavy IoT devices

Web pages load faster, systems respond instantly, and real-time technologies finally work the way they’re supposed to.

3. More Bandwidth for More Devices

Modern workplaces rely on multiple connected devices. 5G’s increased bandwidth allows:

More IoT devices operating at once
More users connected without slowdowns
Better performance in high-density environments
Reliable smart office automation

As businesses add more tools, sensors, and platforms, bandwidth becomes non-negotiable.

4. Improved Network Efficiency and Reliability

5G introduces technologies like:

Dynamic spectrum sharing
Network slicing

Both ensure users get the network resources they need without interruptions — even during peak usage.

This allows businesses to:

Automate processes
Host high-quality web conferencing
Enjoy consistent, reliable connectivity
Reduce downtime and performance bottlenecks

Reliable networks aren’t a luxury. They’re a requirement.

The Future: 5G Unlocks the Next Wave of Innovation

5G doesn’t just improve communication — it enables entirely new business models and capabilities.

5G supports advanced technologies such as:

Internet of Things (IoT)
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Augmented reality (AR)
Virtual reality (VR)

These aren’t new concepts, but 5G finally gives them the infrastructure to scale.

For example, VR in education and training is already accelerating. Forbes projects the global VR education market to reach US$13 billion by 2026.

With 5G, innovations like VR classrooms, remote diagnostics, AR-assisted engineering, and predictive automation move from “future tech” to daily reality.

Bring Your Business Comms Into the Future with 5G

The advantages of 5G — speed, low latency, bandwidth, and efficiency — make it a powerful upgrade for any organisation looking to improve productivity and communication.

If you’re ready to modernise how your business connects, collaborates, and operates, explore the 5G offerings from Vox.

The future of business communication is already here. 5G just makes it faster, smarter, and more capable.

From Smart Homes to Flying Cars: How 5G Could Change the Future

Posted on 31 July 20241 August 2024 by Chris Boshoff

Chris Boshoff unpacks how 5G technology has the potential to affect various aspects of everyday life, from streaming to smart homes – sooner than you’d think.

There’s a huge buzz today around the arrival of 5G, the latest advancement in wireless technology that has the potential to revolutionise our digital landscape – and with it our daily lives.

From incredibly fast data transfers to enabling smart homes and cities, 5G is set to be a game-changer. The fifth generation of wireless technology is expected to transform how we connect and interact with the digital world. Just imagine our current internet capabilities, but significantly enhanced – for example, with download speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G – and that’s what 5G is all about.

What the Current Hype is All About

5G technology is revolutionising the way we experience mobile connectivity, bringing a host of benefits to everyday life. Developed to manage the growing demand for data and enhance the efficiency of mobile networks, 5G delivers a range of improvements that make our digital interactions faster and more reliable.

One of the standout features of 5G is its peak speed capabilities. With 5G, downloading movies, streaming videos, and accessing apps and music happens in mere seconds. This increased speed translates to a smoother and more enjoyable user experience, reducing wait times and frustration.

In addition to speed, 5G significantly reduces latency, meaning the delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction. This low latency ensures that web pages load almost instantaneously and that new applications, such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and virtual reality (VR), perform efficiently and seamlessly.

5G also enhances network reliability and availability. With a more stable connection, users can enjoy uninterrupted service even in high-traffic areas or during peak usage times. This improved reliability is beneficial for personal use while also offering substantial advantages for businesses. Companies can leverage 5G to automate processes, engage in advanced web conferencing, and maintain consistent, high-quality connectivity.

The increased network capacity of 5G supports a higher volume of connected devices, making it easier to manage multiple smart devices and IoT applications simultaneously. This capacity is crucial for accommodating the growing number of connected gadgets in homes and workplaces.

Theoretically, 5G offers data transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps for downloads and up to 10Gbps for uploads, with a maximum latency of up to 4ms. Tests conducted in South Africa revealed average download speeds of around 250Mbps, which compares well to a fast fibre experience. Looking at the practical implications of 5G for both individuals and society is fascinating. When will this amazing new future arrive – and how much of it is here already?

With Vox, of course, your 5G offerings are already available.

‘Back to the Future’: Life Imitates Art

So that’s what 5G can already do in the present. Just for fun, let’s look at connectivity, Hollywood-style.

Remember the much-loved Hollywood cult classic, ‘Back to the Future 2’?

This movie, starring Michael J Fox as street-smart teenager Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as the ‘mad genius’ scientist Doc Brown, was filmed in 1989 (35 years ago). It predicted quite a lot of the technology that we know and love today.

Predicted in the movie and reality today:

Flat screen TVs
Video calls
Using biometrics to pay for items
Targeted personalised advertising
Nike self-lacing shoes
Smart watches

Predicted but not quite yet:

Hover boards: But prototypes are in progress…
Flying cars: Again, a flying car prototype is being worked on, and self-driving cars are an actuality, at least in a section of San Francisco in the US.
Drones as newspaper reporters and dog walkers: Drones today are becoming part of everyday life and new uses for them such as package deliveryare being constantly innovated.

The point is that a movie which is still regularly streamed today has accurately predicted some of today’s technology like smartwatches, video calling, flat screen TVs, biometric security scanners and digital currencies.

And in all these instances, super-fast data connections, and significant data capacity, lie at the heart of the applications.

Moving Into the Future – With 5G

However, we could also think: “Well, never mind ‘Back to the Future’, this is all ‘Back to the Present’ – so where’s the real future?”

This is where discussing 5G brings us today’s ‘Into the Future’!

Enhanced mobile connectivity: Waiting for videos to buffer, or large files to download, will truly come to an end. Additionally, the quality of our communications is set to improve dramatically, so that video calls will feature crystal-clear images and seamless audio.
Business and manufacturing: Remote work could become smoother and more productive with high-quality video conferencing and faster file transfers. In manufacturing, 5G could power the next phase of industrial automation. The high bandwidth and low latency of 5G could enable more sophisticated robotics and real-time monitoring of production lines, potentially increasing efficiency and reducing downtime.
Internet of Things (IoT) revolution: 5G is set to be the IoT backbone, bringing us closer to the reality of truly smart homes and cities. Imagine a refrigerator that automatically orders groceries when supplies run low, or a heating system that learns your preferences and adjusts accordingly. On a larger scale, 5G will enable smarter, more efficient cities. Traffic management systems could adapt in real-time to reduce congestion, and energy usage could be optimised with intelligent streetlights. Already, in Los Angeles, more than 3,000 of the city’s street lights are providing extended cellular and data connectivity to LA residents with 4G and 5G service, and much of the equipment is embedded in the poles.
Automotive industry: 5G will play a crucial role in the development of connected and autonomous vehicles. Cars will be able to communicate with each other and with infrastructure, potentially reducing accidents and improving traffic flow.
Healthcare transformation: Wearable devices could transmit real-time health data to healthcare providers as a general reality for everyone, allowing for more personalised care. IoT capabilities can continue to facilitate the reality of drones delivering packages for medical and blood supplies, as well as vaccines, in remote areas – this area has huge potential to, if you’ll pardon the pun, really take off.
Education and remote learning: The use of mixed reality in education and training can promote deeper understanding. With the use of headsets, visors and sensors, teachers can explain complex concepts to students in a sensory-rich environment.
Entertainment and media: Streaming services will be able to offer higher quality content with less buffering. 4K and even 8K video streaming could become common, providing viewers with an unprecedented level of detail and immersion. Cloud gaming services could allow users to play graphically intensive games on mobile devices. The low latency of 5G could also improve multiplayer gaming experiences.

As outlined previously, LTE customers today who already have high data usage of over 500GB per month are ideal users to adopt 5G technology. Not only does 5G offer better speeds and deliver more data throughput, it also creates a much better user experience for high demand use, as indicated above.

Even if LTE customers are gaming fanatics, but don’t use a lot of data, 5G will benefit them since it provides the improved latency that they require.

Technology has already had a massive impact on the way we work, play and live. However, with the introduction of 5G, we’re at the beginning of a new technological revolution.

It’s not only about having access to faster internet; it’s about creating a more connected and responsive world. As for flying cars… that’s still up in the air.

Screengrab from ‘Back to the Future 2’

From Sign to Surfing: How Vox Makes Your Home Internet Experience Hassle-Free

Posted on 17 July 202427 November 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

The internet is part of everyday life now and something that we access continually, whether it’s for online banking and shopping, working and studying, or gaming and entertainment options.

And the difference between having access to capped versus uncapped data can feel life-changing – not to mention that if you are constantly topping up your data, it can quickly become expensive. In comparison, Fibre to the Home (FTTH) provides lightning-fast, uncapped data – and the cost just might surprise you when you compare it to constantly having to buy data bundles.

Why not check out our Vox FTTH offerings and see how making the switch to uncapped data could change your life for the better?

What’s Your Story?

Almost everyone has had a bad experience with using uncapped data – so what’s yours?

Maybe you were working from home with an urgent deadline, but your Internet wasn’t up to the task and you missed the cut-off. (You also missed out on your next pay increase.)

Or perhaps your data ran out during a job interview? (Another potential salary increase that went whizzing by into the realm of ‘If Only’…)

What about that movie you were really looking forward to watching, but it stopped streaming halfway through? Or the times you were speaking to family members far away and the data-based call dropped, just when the catch-up was getting really enjoyable?

Maybe you were writing an online exam at home, but your data cut out and stopped you from submitting the paper. (You still passed, but that zero really brought down your grade average for the year.)

Running-out-of-data stories generally don’t end with a smile on the storyteller’s face – so maybe it’s time to ditch using a data package that needs constant topping up, and move over to the convenience and enjoyment of fast, uncapped data with Vox’s Fibre to the Home.

Problem, Solution: Enter Vox

If you’re still thinking: “Why Vox Fibre for your Home?” – well, Vox offers access to a home environment where super-fast Internet lets customers stream Netflix or YouTube without the annoying buffering. It allows you to connect multiple devices inside your home, simultaneously, on a single Fibre line. You can surf the Internet – for working, studying, gaming, shopping, socialising or simply being entertained – with no interruptions.

Long story short: Vox FTTH offerings bring you a home in which your Internet experience is reliable and fast (Eskom allowing, of course, and Vox has loadshedding solutions there too).

And not only does Vox FTTH bring you a fantastic Internet experience, it’s also pretty easy to sign up with us.

Easy Steps to Signing Up with Vox

Fibre Coverage?

The first step is checking that Fibre lines have been laid in the ground in your area. Go to the ‘Vox Shop’ to check out the useful coverage map. Simply put in your address – you can have a quick peak at the neighbours’ rooftops and surrounding vicinity if you enjoy cyber-sleuthing – to find out if Fibre to the Home is available in your area. The answer will come up very quickly.

Fibre Package

Next up is to choose a Fibre package option. Once you’ve matched the options to your needs, simply hit the ‘Send’ button and follow the instructions to input your details.

Quotation and RICA Time

Next, you will receive an emailed quote from one of our sales consultants. When you accept the quote, you’ll also need to send in your RICA documents.

A quick technical note: By law, you need to follow RICA procedures (the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication Related Information Act), which involves submitting certain documents, like your ID and proof of current address. RICA legislation was enacted to protect the security and privacy of South Africans.

Fibre Installation with the FNO

Once all your documents are processed, Vox will log a call with the relevant Fibre supplier associated with your chosen quotation package.

Another quick technical note: As an Internet Service Provider (ISP), Vox works with the Fibre Network Operators (FNOs) who own and operate the Fibre lines in the ground.

It’s a Date!

The relevant FNO will get in touch with you to bring a short Fibre line onto your property. Basically, the FNO’s job is to connect the Fibre outside in the street into your home, ultimately to be connected to your Vox Wi-Fi equipment.

The FNO will plan the route for the Fibre line and the location of the ONT inside your home, which you’ll be asked to accept and sign off.

Another quick technical note: The ONT is the Optical Network Terminal and is also commonly referred to as a ‘fibre box’. The ONT is what allows the fibre optic cable to be connected from inside your home, out through your property and to the fibre network at the street.

Once you have signed off the necessary paperwork for the Fibre line handover with the FNO company, it’s back to Vox.

Vox Wi-Fi Router

Vox will deliver your Wi-Fi router by courier. You’ll then set up the Wi-Fi router as per the self-installation instructions, which are simple and clear to understand. Welcome to an online experience that is easy, uncapped and FAST!

Come Home to Vox

Are you ready to make the life-changing move to uncapped data and super-fast internet?

With Vox, you will enjoy uncapped Wi-Fi, with unlimited surfing possibilities, an end to movies buffering, super-fast gaming and a working-from-home experience that, quite simply, works.

Just click here to find out more about signing up for FTTH with Vox.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vox Home Fibre and how does it differ from mobile data?

Vox Home Fibre is a fixed fibre connection to your house offering uncapped, high‑speed internet; unlike mobile data, Fibre provides consistent, symmetrical speeds and supports many devices simultaneously.

How do I check if Fibre is available at my home?

Use the Vox coverage map and enter your address. The tool will tell you immediately if Home Fibre is available in your area.

What documents do I need to sign up for Vox fibre?

You’ll need to submit RICA documents: a valid South African ID and proof of current address. RICA is a legal requirement for new internet connections.

What is an ONT and who installs it?

The ONT (Optical Network Terminal) is the fibre box installed by the Fibre Network Operator (FNO) to bring the fibre into your home. The FNO plans the route and hands over the ONT once installed.

Will Vox install my Wi‑Fi router?

Vox delivers your router by courier and provides simple self‑install instructions. Support is available if you prefer guided setup.

How long does installation take after I accept the quote?

Installation lead times vary by area and FNO schedules. After you accept the quote and submit RICA documents, Vox and the FNO will confirm an installation date.

Fibre to the Home: How Fast is Fast Enough?

Posted on 25 June 20249 November 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

Slow internet isn’t just annoying; it also costs time and productivity. Whether you’re joining an important Teams call, uploading large work files, streaming 4K video or gaming online, insufficient speed creates delays, buffering and poor call quality. Choosing the right Fibre to the Home plan reduces interruptions and keeps your household or small business running smoothly.

Nobody wants to look like a zombie in a bad freeze-frame moment.

So there you are: working from home, and one minute away from joining the most important conference call of the week.

Your outfit, hair and outward demeanour are all on point. You have great input to share when it’s your five minutes in the spotlight.

And then your Internet speed lets you down.

You are hit with the dreaded freeze-frame scenario in which your eyes are closed – but only halfway – giving you the dreaded Undead-Look-of-the-Day.

Never mind the hair and outfit: perhaps it’s time to upgrade your Internet speed.

When Good Internet Goes Bad

Slow internet can have clearly negative effects on people’s lives, including detrimental results on efficiency, communication, and access to information and opportunities. For example, slow internet can:

Reduce productivity: Slowing down work processes and making it harder to access and share information.
Have a negative effect on communication: Causing delays and disruptions in online conversations and video calls.
Limit access to online resources and opportunities: Certain websites and services may not load or function properly.
Affect your leisure time: Slowing down your streaming and gaming down-time.

From faster file downloads to interruption-free video and music streaming, you don’t have to be an IT expert to appreciate the benefits of high-speed internet service.

How Fast is Fast Enough?

Your internet speed sets the framework for what you can do online, so it needs to be able to support your daily internet usage.

Ranging from less than 1 Mbps (very slow) to 5,000 Mbps (really fast), you can choose an internet plan to suit your needs. We recommend that a good download speed is at least 100 Mbps, while a good upload speed is at least 10 Mbps.

Let’s take a look at understanding the parameters of your internet speed in relation to your devices and usage.

Number of devices: If you have multiple devices (for example computers, smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, etc.), you’ll want a higher speed to accommodate simultaneous usage without slowdowns.
Consider your specific needs: For basic web browsing, email and social media, a moderate speed should be fine. However, if you work from home and need to be online on platforms such as Teams, or else you enjoy streaming high-definition videos or participating in online gaming, you’ll benefit from faster speeds.
Upload versus download speed: Internet speeds are often quoted in terms of both download and upload speeds. The first number is the download speed and the second is the upload speed. If you frequently upload large files (such as videos or photos), prioritise a good upload speed.
Future proofing: As technology evolves and your own needs change, having a faster connection can prevent the need for upgrades later – so it’s wise to choose a speed that allows for future growth.

The table below shows how you can match your needs to your speeds, and you can check out some of our current offerings here.

How About a Speed Test?

Higher internet speeds results in faster downloads and uploads – so you could notice that your internet searches are bringing up results faster, while your movie and audio downloads take just seconds.

On the flip side, if there are too many devices or users trying to use the internet connection at the same time, you’ll notice a lag, which is known as latency.

To conduct a speed test, you can:

Go to speedtest.net
Go to mybroadbandspeedtest
Download the Nperf App.

For a more accurate speed test:

Connect a LAN cable directly from the router to your computer or laptop.
Perform the broadband test from the ONT/CPE to your device.

The bottom line: Why live with a situation in which slow internet causes tasks that should be quick and easy to become time-consuming and difficult?

At Vox, we have multiple solutions for your every speed requirement. We like to call it ‘The Vox Factor’.

FAQs

Q: What internet speed do I need for remote work and video calls?
For reliable remote work and multi‑participant video calls, aim for at least 100–200Mbps download with 10+ Mbps upload. If multiple people work from home simultaneously, choose higher tiers or symmetrical options.

Q Is 100Mbps enough for a typical family?
Yes, 100Mbps is a strong baseline for a family streaming HD video on several devices, browsing and video calling. Heavy 4K streaming or multiple simultaneous uploads may need higher speeds.

Q:What is symmetrical fibre and do I need it?
Symmetrical fibre provides the same upload and download speeds. It’s useful for content creators, frequent file uploaders, and businesses that require reliable two‑way performance.

Q How can I get the most accurate speed test results?
Use a wired connection from your ONT/CPE to a computer, close other apps and test at different times (peak and off‑peak). Use reliable tools like Speedtest.net or Nperf.

Q: What if fibre isn’t available at my address?
If Fibre to the Home isn’t yet available, Vox offers LTE and 5G, Wireless and Satellite options and works with FNO partners to expand coverage. Use the availability tool to see current options and timelines.

Q: Does a higher Mbps plan reduce latency?
Higher Mbps improves throughput but doesn’t always lower latency. Latency depends on network routing and congestion; however, better plans and lower contention ratios typically give a more responsive experience.

Q: How many devices can a 200Mbps plan support?
A 200Mbps plan comfortably supports multiple simultaneous 4K streams, several online gamers and multiple work‑from‑home users. Exact performance depends on device usage patterns.

Q: Are there cost‑effective ways to future‑proof my connection?
Choose slightly higher tiers than your current need, opt for symmetrical plans if you upload often, and check for bundle or contract options that include upgraded equipment and support.

Is Fast Fibre to the Home Still Relevant?

Posted on 19 March 202413 November 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

You’re back in the office: the daily commute is real again and working from home has mostly gone. So: is Fibre to the home still relevant in a non‑WFH world? The short answer is yes. Fast home fibre remains a smart household investment in South Africa, for security, entertainment, study, gaming and futureproofing, even when most people spend weekdays at the office.

So there you are, heading back to work in the morning traffic.

Life (perhaps via a Company Policy, or otherwise loadshedding?) has made the decision for you – working from home is over, and it’s now back to the office, like it or not.

Which is making you wonder whether you really need that fast Fibre to the Home (FTTH) now, after all.

As you dodge those special drivers who mistakenly believe that they own the road, your thoughts turn back to those pleasant days of WFH for almost everyone, when the main part of the daily commute to your desk involved just a short walk, and perhaps a change out of your night clothes (optional for some).

Then, of course, fast Fibre was as necessary for our collective well-being in the home as access to water and electricity. It was also – when boosted by an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) – arguably more reliable.

So this begs the question: if you’re back in the office for most or all of the working week, do you still need that amazing Fibre to the Home? Is fast FTTH still relevant in a non-WFH world?

After wading through the acronyms, the answer should surely be an emphatic ‘Yes, it is!’

Why Fibre Comes First

As a company, Vox supports the upliftment of South Africans at both the Macro-Economic level as well as for individuals.

Economic growth depends on reliable and high-speed digital infrastructure – as a country, we need to work towards a digital future for everyone. Fibre lines use light, not electricity, to transfer data, offering significantly higher bandwidth speeds and capacity – the amount of information that your internet connection can handle at a given time – when compared to other internet solutions. (Short science lesson: this is because nothing yet discovered is as fast as the speed of light, which is quite literally what your data is being carried on.)

Currently, too many South Africans still have to rely on mobile data for their home internet communications, or even on copper-based ADSL lines. Neither of these internet options is steadily reliable, and they don’t offer the same high-speed connection as Fibre.

ADSL’s copper wires are unfortunately stolen regularly and, even when left undisturbed, have both a limited capacity and lifespan – not to mention that they are also susceptible to lightning strikes. Not unsurprisingly, and following in other global footsteps, ADSL is being phased out in South Africa and replaced with more modern technology wherever the opportunity arises.

Mobile data also does not offer South Africans the digital future we all deserve. With regular power outages and load-shedding, network towers can’t provide a stable connection. Fibre towers, on the other hand, often operate on solar energy, and users can back up their Fibre routers with UPS systems.

Despite all these advantages presented by Fibre, some people might feel that, if they are no longer working from home, they could downgrade their Fibre line speed to save some money. Below, we’ll unpack why you might want to think twice about this option.

Taking It Personally

Let’s look at how fast Fibre to the Home benefits you and your family members – even when you’re at work.
FTTH on your property is able to do the following:

Improve security: Beyond enabling a more digital-friendly lifestyle, Fibre contributes to good security such as channelling CCTV feeds through always-on internet access. Fibre-optic networks also offer improved security compared to traditional copper cable networks – they are difficult to tap into or intercept, making them a secure choice for transmitting sensitive data. (In comparison, copper cables are vulnerable to physical tampering, as they can be easily accessed and spliced into, leaving them open to data interception and manipulation.)
Provide entertainment: In the old days we would channel-hop. Today, the streaming options just keep on coming for those who like their entertainment in passive format. Stream shows and download movies faster, and enjoy your current-favourite shows with less buffering, or better yet none at all.
Gamers unite: Download and play games faster – gamers need the highest speed internet with minimal lag. Fibre has lower latency – the millisecond delay when data travels from your device to the game hosting server – and it should be low to prevent in-game lagging.
Facilitate studies: You might be at work in the afternoons again, but the chances are that your children will be at home (at least the older ones). Being able to use the internet for their homework and to research projects is critical. Give them the benefit of proper Fibre speeds and enable them to finish their projects faster and better, whether they’re at school or tertiary level. It’s all about enabling their future.
Futureproofing your home: And speaking of the future – connecting your home to high-speed Fibre will ensure your household’s digital activities can continue at future speeds without replacing the cabling in a few years’ time, because a Fibre network, once installed, does not require an imminent future change. Because the fibre-optic cabling infrastructure has unlimited bandwidth and can cover long distances, it will be able to handle future technological inventions. (Some of them, actually, like smart fridges, smart sensors and other appliances connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) are already here – but that’s a different story.)

Why downgrading can cost you more

If you’re considering a cheaper, slower package because you no longer work from home, consider the hidden costs: slower downloads, more buffering, weaker CCTV feeds, and less headroom for multiple devices.

A small upgrade in monthly spend can deliver a markedly better experience and protect the value of smart devices and services you use at home.

Going Home

So, there you are. The working day is over and you’re back in traffic, now on the evening run and driving home.

You have the satisfaction of knowing that your house – and most importantly, your family – is secured by a good security system channelled by CCTV feeds.

Your older kids are busy with their educational projects before putting away their homework and enjoying some well-deserved YouTube or gaming moments.

And for the adults, there is the latest streaming programme to look forward to as you prepare to wind down the day.

Before that, you might do a spot of quick banking, messaging or online shopping using your phone apps – with the emphasis being on quick, because it’s all enabled by super-fast Fibre to the Home.

And it makes your home just that bit more comfortable – and secure – all round than if you’d decided to downgrade to a slower Fibre package.

So yes. In a non-WFH world, super-fast FTTH is definitely still relevant.

Learn more about Vox Fibre to the Home options and find the right package for your household. Explore Vox Fibre packages at vox.co.za or Call 087 805 5050 to speak to an advisor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need fast Home Fibre if I don’t work from home?
Yes. Fast Home Fibre supports home security, streaming, gaming and multiple devices, which are benefits that remain even if you’re primarily office‑based.

How does Fibre compare to ADSL or mobile data?
Fibre offers higher speeds, lower latency and better stability than ADSL or mobile data. ADSL is being phased out and mobile can be affected by load‑shedding and tower congestion.

Will Fibre keep working during load‑shedding?
Fibre itself is resilient; many users back up their home router with a UPS. This keeps internet and home security systems running during power outages.

Is Fibre worth it for gamers?
Definitely. Fast Home Fibre lowers latency and provides consistent speeds needed for online gaming and quick downloads.

Can Fibre improve home security?
Yes. Constant high‑speed connectivity makes CCTV feeds and smart‑home alerts more reliable and secure compared with copper or mobile solutions.

If I downgrade my Fibre package, what could I lose?
You may experience slower downloads, more buffering, longer game update times and reduced performance when multiple devices are online simultaneously.

How do I sign up for Vox Fibre?
Visit vox.co.za to view available Home Fibre packages or Call 087 805 5050 to speak to a Vox advisor.

Does fibre futureproof my home?
Yes. Fibre cabling supports high capacities and new technologies, so it’s a long‑term solution for growing household connectivity needs.