Alexander Graham Bell received a U.S. Patent for his new invention, “the telephone,” in 1876. The first telephone lines and switchboards went into service in the late 1870’s. By 1900, there were almost 600,000 phones in service, a quickly escalating number which was up to 5.8 million by 1910. (SOURCE) That kind of rapid expansion was only possible through the process of physically installing a massive network of copper cables.

A similar story is now playing out once again, 200 years later, around another little invention called “the internet,” as providers rush to be the first to break ground and install fiber-optic networks in new territories. But it’s not just a Wild West style land grab - it’s a carefully considered and evaluated process.

Once companies have a central office or hub for their network, they can begin building it outwards, like rivers from a lake, or veins from a heart. It’s essentially a complicated game of connect-the-dots. There are 3 essential components of any network expansion:

1. Strategic Infrastructure Planning

Areas for potential network expansion are evaluated based on a combination of factors, such as population density, presence of business hubs, and potential for future growth. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the network can scale to meet evolving demands.

2. Installing Cables

This step involves the physical installation of fiber optic cables, the backbone of high-speed internet. Metronet and similar companies invest in expensive modern technology to deploy these cables efficiently. Sometimes they may employ subcontractors to do this work. The process involves a delicate balance of minimizing disruption to existing infrastructure while maximizing coverage to reach businesses in diverse locations.

3. Local Collaboration and Permissions

Establishing a fiber network requires collaboration with local authorities and businesses. Obtaining necessary permissions and working closely with municipalities is crucial. Fiber internet companies prioritize open communication and collaboration to ensure a smooth integration into the local landscape while adhering to regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

The process of building and expanding a fiber optic network involves many factors and requires strategic planning, technological innovation, and a deep understanding of local dynamics. For businesses, being in the right location, within the reach of a fiber network like Metronet's, is a key to enhanced productivity, future growth, and a connected future.