Category: Product

The Benefits of Switching to Fibre Optic Internet

Posted on 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.

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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.

 

Fibre optic internet

 

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.

 

Fibre optic internet

Cyber Space? No, Cyber Oceans…

Posted on 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.

 

cabo submarino | Vox | Cyber Space? No, Cyber Oceans…

 

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.

 

underseacable | Vox | Cyber Space? No, Cyber Oceans…

 

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).

 

Featured Image Content Hub Vox launches high speed uncapped data and voice satellite plans | Vox | Cyber Space? No, Cyber Oceans…

 

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.

Closing the Door on Cyber Intruders Breaking into Your Home Network

Posted on by Craig Blignaut

Cyber intruders don’t need to be tech geniuses to cause havoc — they look for easy targets: weak Wi‑Fi, default passwords and unsecured smart devices. Here’s a practical, no‑fuss guide to locking down your home network so your family, devices and data stay safe.

Start with the router — the front door to your network

  • Change the default admin logins straight away. If your router still uses the factory username and password, you’re inviting cyber intruders in.
  • Use a strong, unique password for both your router login and Wi‑Fi network (passphrases of 16+ characters are ideal).
  • Enable the strongest Wi‑Fi encryption available (WPA3 if supported; otherwise WPA2 with AES).
  • Turn off WPS (Wi‑Fi Protected Setup). It’s convenient, but also an easy way for cyber intruders to break in.

Keep firmware and devices up to date

  • Update router firmware regularly. Manufacturers release patches that fix security holes cyber intruders can exploit.
  • Apply updates to all connected devices — phones, laptops, smart TVs, cameras and other IoT devices.
  • If a device no longer receives updates, consider replacing it. Unpatched hardware is an open invitation to cyber intruders. We offer affordable rental options on Wi-Fi Mesh units to make this process as easy as possible for you.

Segment your network

  • Create a guest network for visitors and a separate network for IoT devices (smart lights, thermostats, cameras).
  • Segmentation limits what an attacker can reach if they compromise one device — it keeps your work laptop and personal files safer.

Lock down smart devices

  • Change default usernames and passwords on every smart device.
  • Wherever possible, disable features you don’t use (remote access, UPnP).
  • Review device privacy settings and remove unnecessary integrations.

Use multi‑factor authentication and strong passwords

  • Enable multi‑factor authentication (MFA) on accounts that support it — email, cloud storage, and smart device accounts.
  • Use a password manager to create and store unique passwords for every account. Reusing passwords makes it easier for cyber intruders to move across services.

Add extra layers: VPNs, firewalls and monitoring

  • Use a reputable VPN when on public Wi‑Fi and consider a VPN for your home network if you need privacy from third‑party snooping.
  • Activate your router’s firewall and enable basic intrusion detection if available.
  • Consider a simple network monitoring app or the router’s built‑in tools to spot unfamiliar devices. Early detection reduces the damage cyber intruders can do.

Back up and prepare for incidents

  • Keep regular backups of important files (offline or encrypted cloud backups).
  • If you suspect a breach, disconnect the affected device, change passwords and, if needed, reset the router to factory settings and reconfigure securely.
  • Keep a list of device default credentials, firmware versions and support contacts for quick reference.

Family habits that make a difference

  • Teach household members not to click suspicious links or open unknown attachments — phishing is a common route for cyber intruders.
  • Limit admin access to the router and devices to one or two trusted people.
  • Regularly review which devices are connected and remove anything unfamiliar.

Quick checklist — secure your home against cyber intruders

  • Change default router logins and Wi‑Fi SSID/password
  • Use WPA3 or WPA2 (AES) encryption
  • Disable WPS and remote admin if unused
  • Create guest and IoT networks for segmentation
  • Keep router and device firmware up to date
  • Use MFA and unique passwords (use a password manager)
  • Enable router firewall and basic monitoring
  • Regular backups and a response plan

Securing your home network doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the router, lock down smart devices, and teach the family safe online habits — these simple steps make life harder for cyber intruders and keep your home safer.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is a cyber intruder?
    A cyber intruder is anyone or any software that gains unauthorised access to your devices or network to steal data, spy or cause damage.
  2. How can I tell if my home network has been breached?
    Signs include unusually slow internet, unknown devices showing as connected, unexpected pop‑ups, or unusual account activity. If you see these, investigate and change passwords.
  3. Is my smart TV a security risk?
    Yes — any Internet‑connected device can be a risk if it runs outdated software or uses default credentials. Update your smart TV and change default passwords.
  4. How often should I update my router firmware?
    Check for firmware updates monthly and install them as soon as they’re available. Critical patches should be applied immediately.
  5. Do I need a VPN at home?
    A VPN adds privacy and can protect data in specific scenarios, but it’s not a substitute for basic network security like strong Wi‑Fi encryption and updated devices.

How 5G Networks Can Strengthen Your Business Cybersecurity

Posted on 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.

Understanding Your Data Usage and How to Manage It

Posted on by Suhail Dinat

Mobile data powers almost everything we do on our phones — maps, music, video and messaging. But if you’re unsure where your allowance disappears to, you’re not alone. We’re going to tell you what counts as data usage, show quick ways to check your usage, and give practical tips to keep costs down without losing the apps you love.

What uses the most data?

Most data is eaten by apps that stream audio or video, sync files in the background, or download large updates. Typical high-consumption items include:

  • Video streaming (YouTube, Netflix, Showmax) — highest usage.
  • Music streaming (Spotify, Apple Music) — medium, depends on quality.
  • Social media (especially autoplay video and Stories).
  • Cloud backups and photo syncing (Google Photos, iCloud).
  • App updates and downloads.
  • Online gaming and live-streaming.

How to check your data usage

Knowing how much you use is the first rule of data usage. You can:

  • Check your mobile provider’s app or online portal for the most accurate billing-period usage.
  • Use your phone’s built-in data monitor (Settings → Mobile Data / Cellular).
  • Set a monthly data cycle and limit in your phone settings to get alerts before you run out.

Quick actions to reduce data right now

If you need to cut usage fast, try these immediate moves:

  • Switch streaming to a lower quality (480p or “Data Saver” mode).
  • Turn off mobile data for specific apps that use background data.
  • Disable auto-play for videos in social apps.
  • Pause automatic app updates on mobile and update only on Wi‑Fi.
  • Download playlists, podcasts or maps over Wi‑Fi before you go offline.

Smart settings that reduce data usage without much effort

Make these changes once and you’ll save data steadily:

Use Wi‑Fi intelligently

  • Connect to trusted Wi‑Fi networks whenever available and set your phone to prefer known networks.
  • Set automatic backups and app updates to occur only on Wi‑Fi.

Control background data and sync

  • Restrict background data for apps you rarely use.
  • Adjust sync frequency for email, social and cloud apps (e.g. fetch less often).

Manage streaming habits

  • Choose SD or “low” quality for everyday listening or viewing; use HD only when necessary.
  • Use offline mode for music and video apps to save repeated data use.

Reduce browsing and image data

  • Use browser data‑saving mode or a text‑friendly reader where available.
  • Turn off image-heavy features in apps (auto-load images or GIFs).

Tips for long-term data savings

  • Pick the right mobile plan: estimate your monthly use and align it to your bundle size.
  • Use data-monitoring apps to track consumption by app and by day.
  • Look for bundles that include streaming or social data caps if you use those services a lot.
  • Be mindful of roaming: switch off data roaming or buy a local bundle when travelling.

When to upgrade your plan

If you constantly run out of data despite following these tips, consider:

  • Moving to a larger monthly bundle.
  • Adding an overflow or top-up option for occasional heavy months.
  • Choosing a plan with free (zero-rated) services relevant to you.

Where data matters most

  • For commuters: download podcasts and playlists on Wi‑Fi before you travel.
  • For students: set lecture recordings and large files to sync on Wi‑Fi only.
  • For families: set data limits per device and use parental controls to stop background updates.

Final checklist — manage your data in 10 minutes

  1. Open your provider app and check month-to-date data usage.
  2. Turn off auto-updates over mobile.
  3. Reduce streaming quality in your music and video apps.
  4. Restrict background data for the top five data‑hungry apps.
  5. Enable data‑saving mode in the browser and apps where available.
  6. Schedule backups and syncs for Wi‑Fi only.
  7. Set a data‑usage warning in your phone settings.
  8. Consider a larger bundle if you regularly hit your limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which app is using the most data?
Check your phone’s data usage screen — it lists apps by data consumed. For billing accuracy, compare with your provider’s usage report.

Is streaming music less costly than streaming video?
Yes. Music at standard quality uses far less data than video, especially HD video.

Can I save data without turning off features I need?
Definitely. Use lower streaming quality, restrict background sync, and download content on Wi‑Fi to keep functionality while saving data.

Need a plan that matches your usage? Check our LTE and 5G packages and find the right allowance for your needs. We’ve got options for everyday users, students and families.

5G’s Role in Enhancing Business Communications and Operations

Posted on 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.

Vox’s successful WiFi 7 test lays foundation for future-proofed, robust and secure business WiFi networks

Posted on by Craig Blignaut

Vox partnered with Samsung and Ruckus Networks to put the WiFi-7 enabled Galaxy S24 through its paces to learn about the latest generation WiFi benefits that can be applied to business networks today

JOHANNESBURG – As the world navigates what can best be described as the most exhilarating burst of technology innovation in human history, Vox ran a test with Samsung’s latest device and Ruckus Networks to demonstrate the revolutionary power of WiFi 7, as it works to refine solutions to empower businesses with future-proofed networking capabilities.

While not mainstream yet, WiFi 7 blows the speeds of current WiFi generations out of the water, surpassing WiFi 6 by a factor of three and WiFi 5 by a factor of 10. However, it is not the speed that is the most exciting, says Product Manager for WiFi at Vox, Craig Blignaut. “In fact, for now it isn’t about the speed as there are a number of factors in SA – which will change in the coming months and years – that hold this factor back. The excitement comes from the cutting-edge technology, including multi-link operation and advanced error correction that enables seamless connectivity for a large number of devices.

“There is a radically reduced latency and markedly improved robustness, with less downtime and disturbance. The test enabled us to get a taste of the immense potential of the technology. Let’s be clear, use cases will still emerge but WiFi 7 will power bandwidth-intensive applications such as 8k streaming, virtual and augmented reality and online gaming. For businesses, it opens up the possibility of radically reduced latency and increased capacity which will revolutionise wireless networks.”

This is one of the main drivers behind the WiFi-7 test on the Samsung device, as Vox’s highly successful partnership with Ruckus Networks is designed to build products and solutions that will radically improve their customers’ current connectivity. This is to future-proof businesses to withstand the influx of WiFi 7 devices and applications in the not-so-distant future, which will remove the need for further network upgrades down the line, explains Blignaut. “In other words, the reliability and robustness of Ruckus Networks’ infrastructure means Vox can effectively deliver tomorrow’s innovation to businesses today.”

Ruckus Networks provides networking solutions, specifically wireless access points and related products. Their products are designed to provide reliable, high-performance, and secure wireless connectivity for various environments. Samsung’s Galaxy S24 is one of a few devices in the world that are already WiFi 7 enabled, and so by collaborating, the teams were able to uncover valuable insights.

“Bandwidth from a speed capacity is currently limited in SA for a number of reasons, but this will change, no doubt. But where the WiFi industry is going is towards managing capacity better – in other words, shared bandwidth infrastructure and improved reliability. Automation cannot afford any drop in connectivity – it needs excellent throughput. There’s reduced interference and this is very important when we consider the new frequency bands that have been released,” explains Blignaut.

“This is the backdrop to the successful test. It was about testing tomorrow’s capability today, and then, equipped with our Ruckus partnership, to bring that robustness to businesses,” he explains. Elaborating more on their test, Blignaut explains that outside of the speed consideration, latency drops from today’s general discussion of 1ms to a latency of 0.1ms, on top of an ability to maintain consistency.

“In five years, WiFi 7 will be highly relevant. The question then becomes: If you are an organisation that needs to invest in networking infrastructure today, are you going to invest in technology that is made for today but will be irrelevant in a few years?

“Or will you invest in technology that is relevant for today, fully optimised and capable of handling the massive evolution that WiFi 7 will bring in a few years’ time, while still enjoying future benefits now, such as unparalleled robustness, vastly increased secure and seamless connections, and radically reduced latency with less disturbance? This is why we did the test and why we continue to innovate with our partners,” says Blignaut.

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

Posted on 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:

 

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.

 

Back to the future flying car | Vox | From Smart Homes to Flying Cars: How 5G Could Change the Future
Screengrab from ‘Back to the Future 2’

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