Playing Detective: Why Do I Have No Internet Access?!!

Posted on 25 October 202430 October 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

Possibilities to unpack

There’s never a good time for the Internet to go down, and we’ve all been there – that “Oh nooooo!” moment of discovering that there’s no Internet access (generally the polar opposite of an “Aha!” moment). Whether or not there’s an instantly obvious reason as to why you suddenly have no Internet access (for example, an unexpected power outage), you’ll want to get back online immediately to carry on with where you were, whether it was working, streaming, gaming or banking.

Finding out exactly where the fault lies can be a little like playing detective (probably a detective in a bad mood). Let’s take a look at the possible reasons for your lack of Internet access, and how to handle the problem.

ISPs versus FNOs

With Fibre Internet connectivity, customers generally deal directly with their Internet Service Providers (ISP) – which is where Vox comes in – but Fibre Network Operators (FNOs) also play a significant role in the connectivity landscape.

An FNO installs, owns and maintains the Fibre Optic Cable network infrastructure that allows users to access the Internet.
An ISP manages how customers receive their Internet services, essentially acting as a middleman between the FNO and the customer. The ISP manages the speed and bandwidth of the Internet coming from the FNO’s cables into your home, offering different Internet packages to cater for different customers’ needs.

Help – My Internet Access is Down!

Let’s say you’re watching your current favourite TV show via a streaming service and the screen suddenly goes blank (but the lights are still on). First things first: try to keep your blood pressure under control, and then check that the issue doesn’t lie with the TV. If you can access your show on your phone or laptop, then it’s not Internet access that’s down but rather your smart TV.

On the other hand, if you’re having connectivity issues across multiple devices, you can then assume that something has gone wrong with your Internet access. There could be a few reasons for this.

Check that your Wi-Fi router and/or ONT (modem) isn’t malfunctioning: Your ONT (also known as an Optical Network Terminal) is the box on the wall (originally installed by the FNO) that connects the Fibre cables outside your property to your Wi-Fi router inside. Make sure all cables are connected properly and that none have come loose. If everything seems fine, unplugging and plugging back in, then waiting about 30 seconds for the device to reboot, usually fixes most ONT and / or router problems.

Additionally, you might physically be too far away from your Wi-Fi router, or the router itself is in the wrong place. Ideally, your Wi-Fi router should be in a central location in your home, not too close to the floor and away from your kitchen Microwave or other electronic devices that might interfere with the radio signal, such as a baby monitor in a child’s room.

The Wi-Fi network might be congested (externally and internally):

While network congestion won’t necessarily knock out your Internet connection completely, it can certainly cause slower speeds. Are other members of your family causing your Internet access to slow because of massive bandwidth consumption via streaming, downloading or gaming?

Besides waiting for the congestion to clear (or bribing your teenagers to stop playing), you can make the most of the speeds you are getting by placing your router in an optimal location (as outlined above), adjusting your Wi-Fi settings or using an Ethernet cable.

It might be your ISP’s connection, which can go down occasionally due to maintenance or mishaps. You can contact Vox Consumer Support on 087 805 0530, or check out planned maintenance through our Vox Support Portal for an update. Using cell phone-based data or another Internet connection elsewhere, you can email help@voxtelecom.co.za.

The good news is that usually, ISP outages happen rather seldom and are resolved as quickly as possible; it’s not in the best interests of any ISP to be slack in leaving things unresolved.

Is it the FNO? This is where it can get tricky for consumers. Their ISP is usually their first port of call and being told, with apologies, that “It’s not us; it’s the people who provide the Fibre network to your area” can feel like someone is not taking ownership. Having contacted your ISP, you could use your mobile phone data and see if there are any outages reported on Twitter, or perhaps your neighbourhood WhatsApp group. If there’s a number to call, do so – and again, hopefully the problem will be resolved as quickly as possible.

Sometimes, Fibre networks go down because of breaks in submarine Fibre cables in the ocean – that’s generally a global issue, and a massive headache for everyone.

Power outages: If the power goes out, so does your Wi-Fi router, so we can’t forget about electricity issues, whether they are called load shedding, load reduction or come in a no-name brand packaging. Best practice advice is to support your Wi-Fi connection with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). ONTs and routers use very little electricity, and having access to a UPS could save your Teams meeting – and your sanity.

Few things today are more guaranteed to put us instantly into Angry Detective Mode than suddenly losing our Internet access.

The most common cause is a problem with your router or modem, or a loose cable, but your Internet can also fail because of a more technical reason. Whenever there’s an issue, you can always contact us and we will gladly be of assistance.

At Vox, our help is available 24 hours a day, throughout the year.

When to contact Vox support

If you’ve run the checks above and still have no internet access, contact Vox for assistance:

- Phone: 087 805 0530 (24/7 support)
- Email: help@voxtelecom.co.za

Quick FAQs

Q: My TV lost streaming but my phone works — is the internet down?
A: No – this usually means the smart TV or the app is at fault. Try restarting the TV or app first.

Q: How long do ISP outages usually take to fix?
A: Most ISP issues are resolved quickly; longer outages can occur if there’s damage to the fibre network or major maintenance.

Q: Can broken submarine fibre affect my home connection?
A: Yes. Submarine cable faults can cause wider regional disruptions, which your ISP will report on if affected.

Q: My device shows ‘connected’ but there’s no internet – what now?
A: This often means the device is connected to your router but the router itself has lost upstream connection. Reboot your ONT and router, try a different device, and if multiple devices still have no internet, contact Vox on 087 805 0530.

Q: Can I use my phone’s mobile data as a temporary fix?
A: Yes, you can hotspot your phone to get devices online while you troubleshoot. Remember mobile data may be slower or limited by your cap, so use it for essential tasks until your home connection is restored.

Q: I see a cut or damage to fibre outside my property — who fixes it?
A: Physical fibre repairs are handled by the Fibre Network Operator (FNO). Report the issue to Vox support (087 805 0530 / help@voxtelecom.co.za ) so they can escalate to the FNO and arrange a repair.

Internet, Unplugged: The Convenience of Wi-Fi

Posted on 23 October 20247 November 2024 by Craig Blignaut

(‘The Internet’ and ‘Wi-Fi’ Are Not the Same)

“Hi, can I please use your Internet?”

“No, but you are welcome to access my Wi-Fi – let me give you the password.”

The Internet and Wi-Fi are not the same. Nobody owns the global Internet, but people pay for their connectivity and Wi-Fi services (to the home or office) to access the Internet. Knowing the difference makes for clearer understanding and communication.

And just as it’s the nature of water to flow freely through a well-built system, so does information on the internet when it’s enabled by the correct infrastructure. Wi-Fi enables us to access this information without having to plug in our devices through a cable – let’s take a look.

The Internet of Possibilities

Back in its earliest days, people had to plug their devices into an ethernet cable (or before that, an ADSL connection, which was essentially a Telkom landline) to connect to the Internet.

That’s why people talked about ‘Being online’ – because you were ON the internet, but only because you were connected to a LINE (i.e. the cable).

Today, most people connect to the Internet in their homes (or at their office premises) through a wireless connection, in other words through Wi-Fi access. It’s a huge step up from having to have your device constantly plugged in to remain connected.

So how does Wi-Fi access enable wireless connectivity?

From Fibre Outside to Wireless Inside

Your home Wi-Fi network begins with Fibre Optic cables that are laid outside your property within the neighbourhood by the fibre network operators (FNOs). Through these Fibre Optic cables, Internet data is transmitted at the speed of light.

When you sign up for a Wi-Fi service, an internet service provider (ISP) – like Vox – then takes over. The ISP links the FNO Fibre box outside your property boundary with a separate (shorter) Fibre Optic cable to an optical network terminal (ONT) inside your home.

The ONT is linked with one last short cable into your Wi-Fi router, which then ‘converts’ Internet data received via the Fibre optics into radio signals, to create your home Wi-Fi network.

And voila! You and your devices have access to wireless Internet access in your home.

Internet Like Water

Much like water, the Internet, with its constant access to information and services, has become fundamental to modern life today. So you could also think of the process like this:

Firstly, the Internet is the water that is constantly flowing.
The Fibre cables are your hosepipe – the actual infrastructure that carries the Internet to you.
Your Wi-Fi router is the primary sprinkler that makes the Internet easily accessible. Wi-Fi lets you access the Internet without having to literally plug in your device.
Finally, mesh units or access points placed strategically within your home further sprinkle your Wi-Fi everywhere it’s needed, allowing for the freest possible flow of the Internet and the information it allows us to share.

From the way we communicate and work, to how we shop, bank and entertain ourselves, the Internet has revolutionised multiple aspects of our lives.

Vox can assist you with all of your connectivity needs, from infrastructure to Wi-Fi, with a host of additional options to quench your thirst for fully-enabled communications.

We’re proud to say that there’s no obstacle to free-flowing communications that we can’t solve for you.

Affordable High-Speed Broadband, Plus Value-Adds, for Every South African

Posted on 11 October 2024 by Vivienne Fouche

Is that all? The importance of offering ‘more’ in a saturated environment

Today’s world is defined by Connectivity in ways that seemed unimaginable when the clock first ticked over into the current millennium. Whether it’s WhatsApp, X, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Facebook, Snapchat or TikTok, people love being connected, and online is here to stay.

Here at Vox, Connectivity lies at the heart of everything we do.

As a leading South African Internet Service Provider (ISP), we are all about connection, communication and conversation – but we also know that we’re not alone. The local telecoms landscape has more than 20 ISPs in operation – you could call it a saturated market.

And so Vox goes above and beyond to offer our customers more than the competition – you definitely won’t hear the phrase: ‘Is that all?’ about any of our offerings! At the heart of our multiple solutions is the goal of being able to offer every South African access to affordable high-speed broadband.

Let’s take a look at how we can get our customers connected.

Dealing With Market Saturation

In addition to high-speed broadband, Vox provides many excellent value-adds. As well as lightning-fast Internet, we offer Wi-Fi solutions to keep you connected; cost-effective and quality Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offerings; energy back-up products for power outages; and even cell boosters to enhance your mobile phone experience – no more ‘dead’ zones in the house!

You can look to Vox for the following:

Our connectivity solutions begin with Vox Fibre, which comes with value-added extras upon sign-up, like free installation and a free-to-use router.
When Fibre is unavailable, other options are provided:
- Vox Wireless presents high-speed, fixed Microwave Data Connectivity that uses the most innovative microwave technology on the market. It comes with free installation, meaning more money to invest in your business.
- Consumers and businesses also have the option of choosing Fixed LTE, 5G, and satellite, depending on factors such as their needs and budget, and geographic location.
To ensure that our customers get the most out of their Internet solution, we supply best-of-breed Wi-Fi devices, which allow you to maximise your Wi-Fi experience. We also offer managed Wi-Fi network solutions, which enable remote software, firmware updates and reduced technician callouts with remote troubleshooting and fault remediation. Additionally, our expert advice is always available to enhance your overall network experience.
We also provide excellent access to power solutions for those times when the power goes down, to keep your Wi-Fi running even in an energy outage.
Vox’s shared Mobile Data offering is an ideal mobile wireless solution for a family with multiple SIM-enabled devices, to keep everyone connected while maintaining control over your mobile data bill using our simple online portal.

What Sets Our Connectivity Options Apart?

Vox offers our clients high network availability and an extensive national footprint, as follows:

We have a huge range of subscription and pricing solutions, and our sales agents will help you choose the best package for your needs, rather than upselling you on the most expensive.
Vox subscribers, both consumers and businesses, have the option of adding backup Internet solutions to their Fibre packages (like LTE or Wireless) to ensure they stay online all the time.
Our Proactive Network Monitoring offers safer, more secure Internet access and lower latency.
A 24/7/365 in-house Service Centre is available for troubleshooting and incident response for all our customers, across any product.
As far as Voice offerings are concerned, we believe that we’re the number 1 VoIP provider in the country.
- Individual consumers and SMEs can make use of our Vobi softphone application, which is unique to Vox, and allows customers to make and receive high quality Voice and Video calls over Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G-LTE and 5G on the Vox network.
- Organisations can make use of our Titanium partnership (the highest status possible) with global cloud PBX leader 3CX, to experience a comprehensive communication platform that includes Live Chat, WhatsApp, Facebook, SMS and Video Conferencing.

Vox teams are situated in multiple locations across the country, supported by our extensive footprint of over 1 000 business partners to ensure that our customers receive fast, efficient service wherever they are, whenever needed.

Value-Added Service Offerings

We take full responsibility for all our technical implementations and systems, from concept to installation.

The Vox Service Centre offers immediate support to all our customers.
The Service Centre also continuously monitors all of Vox’s networks and infrastructure, to ensure that quality of service is always maintained.
Specialist product managers are assigned to oversee each portfolio, for continuous research and development to ensure each product is always of the highest standard.
An extensive team of account managers and technical engineers offers convenient customer service and solution implementation.
If you’ve decided to upscale your business with better Connectivity, don’t stop there! Vox can also organise a customised domain and email address for you, to turbocharge your professionalism, as well as taking care of your email archiving needs with the most comprehensive and hassle-free cloud email and compliancy solution on the market.
There’s always a good time to sign up with us – you could win with our ‘Refer a friend’ campaign, and there’s always a fabulous promo running that allows you to sign up and save.

Expertise, innovation and superior quality products are at the heart of Vox. Ultimately, we have everything required to meet our customers’ needs at every stage of their journey – both now, and in the future – and that’s how we keep South Africans staying connected together.

With us, there’s always more.

Has Modern Internet Usage Made Us More Vulnerable?

Posted on 4 October 20244 October 2024 by Vivienne Fouche

Imagine a world in which people are completely reliant on a Super-Machine for all their needs…

Living in self-contained areas, they have little social contact, but are content because they’re sheltered and warm, with access to food, communication and entertainment – all enabled by the Machine. But one day the Machine goes down, and society crashes into a new reality. Does it sound… plausible? This is actually the plot of a science-fiction book written by EM Forster, called ‘The Machine Stops’.

In the real world, when people ‘sheltered in place’ during the Covid-19 pandemic, South Africans embraced online communication, shopping, banking, remote working and entertainment like never before – and when the pandemic eased, many people didn’t particularly want to go back ‘outside’ in quite the same way.

So even though we aren’t living in the sci-fi world of ‘the Machine’, the question is: How reliant are people today on the Internet? And has modern Internet usage made us more vulnerable to previously unimagined threats? The answers might be a bit shocking.

The Power’s Out

Let’s start with one of the basics: electricity. In South Africa, we’re used to power outages. Over time, we’ve come up with multiple solutions to deal with challenges like no heating or lights, cooking on gas instead of electricity, and having the Wi-Fi go down. But that was all because of Eskom’s troubles, which (whisper so as not to jinx things) might be on the mend at last?

Much more alarmingly, there are places in the world where the power can be taken out by acts of war, because the rise of technology means infrastructure is now linked to the online world. This brings improved functionality to critical national infrastructure sites around the world, but also new vulnerabilities – including electricity grids.

For example, Ukraine has experienced documented cases of cyber attacks on its power grid that have been attributed to its Russian enemies, in addition to actual physical attacks via traditional weapons of war.

The reality is that the Internet is now so intricately involved with our critical infrastructure that power outages – which can be life threatening in some situations – can be caused by online activity as well as physical damage. So yes – modern Internet usage has definitely made us more valuable to this particular threat.

The Internet of Threats

On a smaller scale than targeting national infrastructure, there are other ways in which the Internet can cause us to be vulnerable in our daily lives.

We’re used to connecting different devices to the Internet, including industrial sensors and CCTV cameras, as well as home devices such as security cameras (again), Internet routers, smart utility meters, connected TVs, and monitors for our small children’s bedrooms. Together, they form part of the Internet of Things (IoT), geared to make life easier.

However, many of these devices are set up with a default password already installed -that is something as basic as ‘Password’ – with the onus on the owner or installer of the IoT device to change it once in use. But frequently, the password isn’t changed – and in addition, there are lists of widely available (if you know where to look) IoT device passwords available on the Internet for threat actors to access quite easily.

The danger of IoT devices being hacked includes strangers spying on your home and frightening your kids through the baby monitor (yes, this really has been done), as well as, at a more industrial level, being turned into ‘zombie bots’. The so-called zombies become part of a botnet – a network of private computers or IoT devices infected with malicious software, and controlled as a group (without the individual owners’ knowledge) to carry out cyber crimes.

In late May 2024, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) carried out an operation to take down what was thought to have been the world’s biggest-ever botnet, made up of millions of computers, in nearly 200 countries, that had been infected with malware. Selling access to this network enabled serious crimes around the globe, including financial fraud, identity theft and bomb threats.

It sounds like something from the movies, but unfortunately it’s not – it’s a reality today of modern Internet usage. So how do people and countries protect themselves from such possible cyber threats?

Protecting Your Data and Yourself

There’s obviously not a great deal that individuals can do to protect national infrastructure – that’s up to the sovereign nations concerned. As far as IoT devices are concerned, hopefully manufacturers, service providers and security experts are becoming more invested in developing effective strategies to improve their security – but it’s imperative that the consumer also shares the responsibility.

Here are some tips to make yourself less vulnerable to Internet threats:

For any device in your home: change the default password to something stronger.
Ensure that you have a strong Wi-Fi password for your home network.
Install all updates from the manufacturer to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Install, and then continue to update, anti-virus and malware software on your computers.

We are definitely more connected today than ever before – even if not actually within an all-powerful Machine – but at the same time, we have also become more vulnerable to threats from the Internet. Terrorists and criminals have shown their ability – and unfortunately their willingness – to use technology to harm countries, organisations and individuals. The reality is that no one is immune.

Here at Vox, we understand the vulnerability that comes with modern Internet usage. The only way to stop cyber criminals from making use of ‘the Machine’ in ways that unleash harm is to be constantly more aware and proactive.

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.

Cyber Space? No, Cyber Oceans…

Posted on 16 September 20249 November 2025 by Vivienne Fouche

How the Internet is powered in the depths of the sea

Subsea cables, which are bundles of fragile glass Fibre protected by heavy armour, carry roughly 98% of international internet traffic, linking continents via light pulses and landing stations that connect to national Fibre networks.

Did you ever wonder how the Internet reaches across oceans so that we can communicate – via Email, social media or Internet Voice functionality – between South Africa and the rest of the world? And how is it that, in the blink of an eye, a local gamer can execute a tactical manoeuvre with a team-mate in England to annihilate an ‘enemy’ in Australia? And what enables us to download American-made YouTube videos and watch X rants in real time from Donald Trump?

The Internet is able to reach across oceans like this because a huge chunk of it is actually placed in the oceans. Many people don’t realise that around 98 percent of international Internet traffic is carried around the world by subsea cables.

Let’s take a look.

The Hidden Deep-Sea Internet Highway

The Internet ‘superhighway’ joins continents and countries through both subsea as well as terrestrial cables. The data wires in this interconnected web bring high-speed Internet access to all parts of the globe, through around 1.5 million kilometres of cable criss-crossing the ocean floor.

These cables are laid on the seabed at an average depth of 3,600 metres. Today, there are about 500 subsea cables that are either live or under construction, and if their total lengths were combined, they could stretch – roughly – from the Earth to the moon, about three times over.

TeleGeography submarine cable map headline | Vox | Cyber Space? No, Cyber Oceans… — Image courtesy of https://www.submarinecablemap.com/

The cables are typically funded by the telecom industry, sovereign nations and technology companies such as Facebook and Google. So the reality is that the backbone of the planet’s Fibre cables are deep in the sea, quietly linking people and businesses to each other, all the time (except when something happens, but that’s a different story).

Thin Cables, Extraordinary Power

Fibre Optic cables transfer data across the world in the blink of an eye via light pulses, which travel through fragile wires just thicker than a needle. Fibre Optic cables are tiny tubes made of glass or plastic, which are in turn protected by multiple layers of hard materials like metal and rubber.

A single Fibre Optic can transmit 100 gigabits of data a second, with new cables able to transmit around 400 gigabytes per second. Thousands of Fibre Optics get bundled together and insulated, making one Fibre cable.

Subsea cables typically include a protective jelly around Fibre Optic cables and are also contained within multiple layers of plastic and copper wires. Under the water, ‘repeaters’ are connected at certain points. They amplify the signal and boost signal strength over long distances. The copper wires contained within the cable casing carry around 10 000 volts of electricity to power these repeaters.

The bottom line (pardon the pun) is that both within the sea and on land, the fine tubes that carry data packets at the speed of light need to be protected, which makes the cable overall – once properly wrapped up and protected – look much bigger than the thin part that actually does all the work.

From Sea to Land

When subsea cables under the world’s oceans reach the shore, they are then connected to landing stations, which are an essential part of the Fibre network infrastructure – they distribute the data carried on the networks, joining the submarine cables to terrestrial cables.

For example, there’s a landing station in Mtunzini in KwaZulu-Natal, where the SEACOM cable reaches South African shores. This cable connects the subsea cable directly to a data centre in Midrand, Johannesburg.

Once plugged into the landing stations on shore, the cables take on their overland mutation and are distributed by FNOs (Fibre network operators). The FNOs are responsible for deploying, managing and maintaining Fibre Optic networks – their role is the physical infrastructure, or, in short, running the cables under and next to roads and buildings.

Be Connected with Vox

As an Internet Service Provider (ISP), here at Vox we don’t physically lay the cables ourselves, but instead partner with a number of FNOs around the country to bring South Africans high-speed Fibre to the Home (FTTB) and Fibre to the Home (FTTH) offerings. Some of our local FNO partners include Openserve, Vumatel, Frogfoot, Metrofiber Networx and Octotel (you can find out more here).

An ISP – like Vox – provides Internet access to businesses or residential customers. An ISP’s role is to operate on top of the existing network infrastructure and manage services by offering different plans and packages based on speed and other features.

So next time someone talks about cyber ‘space’, you can point them in the right direction – that it’s mostly all about the ‘cyber oceans’. Except, of course, when it comes to a small section of Internet connectivity that’s powered by Satellite in outer space (just to talk about actual space here for a second).

Satellite really comes into its own in regions where Fibre cables can’t be laid, perhaps because of rough terrain (like mountains) or because the area is just too remote. Vox also offers Satellite services – because as modern life becomes increasingly dependent on the Internet, reliable connectivity is more important than ever before.

Whether it’s for following the news, being connected for work, gaming, staying in touch with friends and family, or streaming shows and movies in your down-time, it’s great to live in today’s connected world. Whatever your needs, Vox will get you connected and keep you in the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are subsea (submarine) cables and why do they matter?
Subsea cables are bundles of Fibre optic strands laid on the ocean floor that carry roughly 98% of international internet traffic. They form the global backbone that determines international speed, latency and reliability for streaming, gaming and global business traffic.

Q: Does Vox lay subsea cables?
No, Vox does not lay subsea cables. Instead, we partner with Fibre Network Operators (FNOs) and make use of landing‑station capacity so we can deliver international bandwidth into South Africa and on into local networks.

Q: How do subsea cables affect my home or business connection?
Subsea capacity affects international latency and throughput. Good access to landing stations and local distribution networks means smoother streaming, faster international downloads and better performance for cloud apps and gaming.

Q: How can I check if Vox Fibre is available at my address?
Plug in your home address on the Vox availability tool and select ‘Connect me’ to see whether Vox Fibre to the Home is offered at your location.

Q: What if Fibre isn’t available where I live?
Where Fibre is not yet available, for example in very remote or rugged areas, Vox offers Satellite services as an alternative to keep you connected.

Q: What support and contract options does Vox offer for business and residential Fibre?
Vox provides 24 / 7 / 365 support at no extra monthly cost and a range of contract terms to suit different needs. Business Fibre can include dedicated options, static IPs and VLANs; residential plans may offer zero upfront fees on qualifying 36‑month contracts. Contact Vox for package details and tailored service options.

How 5G Networks Can Strengthen Your Business Cybersecurity

Posted on 29 August 202411 November 2025 by Chris Boshoff

The rollout of 5G technology is revolutionising more than just network speeds—it’s reshaping enterprise cybersecurity. With stronger encryption, smarter authentication, real-time monitoring, and network segmentation, 5G delivers an advanced security framework that helps businesses proactively defend against cyber threats.

Below, we explore how 5G enhances cybersecurity and strengthens your company’s digital resilience.

Key Cybersecurity Benefits of 5G Networks

Enhanced data encryption
Stronger privacy protection
Network slicing for isolated security zones
Multi-layered authentication
Real-time threat monitoring and anomaly detection
Edge computing security advantages
Automated security responses
Secure connectivity for large device ecosystems
AI and machine learning-driven threat prevention
Improved global roaming security

Let’s unpack how these 5G capabilities work to secure your business.

1. Enterprise-Grade Data Encryption

5G introduces next-generation encryption, including 256-bit encryption standards and advanced cryptographic algorithms—future-proofing networks, even against emerging quantum computing threats.

Why this matters:
Sensitive business data is significantly harder to intercept or decrypt, drastically reducing exposure to cybercrime.

2. Stronger Privacy & Identity Protection

Unlike 4G, 5G masks user identities using a Subscriber Concealed Identity (SUCI) instead of transmitting personal identifiers in plain text.

What this means for business:
Better protection for confidential internal data, customer profiles, and proprietary information.

3. Network Slicing: Custom Security Zones for Your Business

5G allows multiple isolated virtual networks to run on the same infrastructure. Each can have tailored security controls, access rules, and monitoring.

Security advantage:
If a breach occurs in one slice, it can be instantly quarantined—leaving the rest of the network untouched.

4. More Secure Authentication

5G strengthens access control through:

Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Secure device verification
Asymmetric encryption-based identity validation

Result:
Fewer risk points, less impersonation, and tighter access control across networks and connected devices.

5. Real-Time Threat Monitoring and Detection

Powered by machine learning analytics, 5G monitors networks in real time to detect unusual activity and security anomalies at internet scale.

Security outcome:
Faster detection = faster response = fewer breaches.

6. Edge Computing for Reduced Attack Surfaces

5G can process data closer to its origin rather than routing everything through central servers.

Benefits include:

Lower risk of data exposure
Faster incident response
Fewer network choke points for attackers

7. Automated Cybersecurity Response

5G networks can support self-automated threat detection and mitigation, reducing reliance on manual intervention.

Impact on business:
Shorter vulnerability windows, fewer successful exploits, and less operational downtime.

8. High-Volume Device Security

With capacity for up to 1 million connected devices per square kilometre, 5G delivers scalable, secure support for large device ecosystems.

Security benefit:
Centralised security oversight, real-time monitoring, and stronger endpoint protection across massive connected environments.

9. AI-Driven Cyber Defence

The ultra-low latency and high throughput of 5G allows AI and machine learning security models to respond instantly to emerging threats.

Bottom line:
Cybersecurity becomes predictive, not reactive.

10. Safer Global Roaming & Network-to-Network Security

5G replaces outdated roaming protocols like SS7 and Diameter with the Security Edge Protection Proxy (SEPP)—creating a unified, encrypted communication layer between global networks.

Advantage:
Improved protection for businesses operating across borders, especially those with mobile or roaming workforces.

5G Is a Major Leap Forward for Business Security

5G is no longer just about faster internet—it is a cybersecurity enabler that provides:

Stronger encryption
Smarter authentication
Intelligent threat monitoring
Network isolation and control
Faster automated responses

For businesses navigating an increasingly unpredictable digital threat landscape, 5G delivers a future-ready security foundation.

🔐 Secure Your Business with 5G-Enabled Cyber Protection

The companies that adopt 5G aren’t just upgrading their networks—they’re upgrading their security strategy.

Want to explore how 5G can protect and enable your business? Get in touch with Vox to future-proof your organisation today.

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.