We get it: fiber internet can sound complicated. But it’s easier than ever to get ultra-fast connections, symmetrical speeds and the bandwidth you need for all your devices with Lumos. To help you pick the fiber internet package that fits your digital life, we’re demystifying common internet terms. Learn more about why fiber matters below:
Fiber Optic Internet
Fiber optic internet is a broadband connection that sends information via light signals across thin glass strands. And since light travels faster than cable internet’s electrical signals, you’ll get faster uploads, downloads and connections, with Lumos 100% Fiber Optic Internet.2
Upload speeds
Upload speeds, or how fast your computer sends data to the internet, are what maintain a clear and uninterrupted streaming experience during your remote audio or video calls. This is crucial for lag-free meetings when working from home. Lumos’s upload and download speeds are equally fast.
Download speeds
Download speeds, or how fast your computer receives information from the internet, allow you to stream videos, load web pages, refresh your social media feed and play games online without buffering. Lumos guarantees equally fast download and upload speeds.
Mbps
Mbps stands for “megabits per second” and indicates how many million bits can be transmitted each second. It’s the standard way to measure internet speed. For the average internet user, an upload speed of 20 Mbps and download speed of 200 Mbps are considered fast.
Gbps
Gigabits per second (Gbps) stands for billions of bits per second. One Gbps is equal to 1,000 Mbps. These speeds are 10 times faster than the average broadband download speed of 100 Mbps, allowing you to download a full HD movie in just a few minutes.
Multi-gig
Multi-gigabit (multi-gig) internet is a network connection that runs at speeds of more than 1 Gbps. It can power large households with multiple devices connected simultaneously and creators or gamers who need the high bandwidth for large file transfers. Our 2 and 5 Gig plans are built for the heaviest of internet users.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth is the amount of data that your internet or network can handle at a time. Lumos offers enough bandwidth to power all the devices in your connected home all at once, without slowing down.
Latency/Ping
Latency is how quickly a signal (ping) is sent from and returned back to your computer. The lower the ping, the less lag. Lumos delivers low ping for smooth, responsive gameplay.
Mesh Wi-Fi
While traditional Wi-Fi uses one router to send internet throughout your home, Mesh Wi-Fi allows for multiple internet access points for a more stable connection—no matter how far from your router you may be.
Speed throttling
Sometimes, your internet service provider may regulate network traffic by limiting your bandwidth usage. They do this by deliberately slowing down your internet speed—and often without telling you. At Lumos, we’ll never throttle your speeds or cap your data.
You test your speed. We’ll answer your questions.
While Wi-Fi speed tests are generally accurate, various factors can influence the results. Server distance, device location, testing time, VPN usage, online activity, connected devices and internet equipment can all impact the outcome. You should conduct multiple tests at different times using reliable speed test tools to get a more precise understanding of your internet speed. This will provide a range of Wi-Fi speeds, giving you a better idea of your internet’s potential.
It is common for advertised cable internet speeds to differ from what customers actually experience. Your internet service provider (ISP) may be throttling your speeds to manage network congestion or prioritize certain types of traffic. Alternatively, the asymmetrical nature of cable internet connections (download speeds are typically faster than upload speeds) may lead to slower overall internet experiences for tasks that involve significant uploading, such as video conferencing or cloud backup. Additionally, factors such as network congestion, distance from your ISP’s infrastructure and the quality of your equipment can also contribute to the gap between advertised and actual speeds.
The more people and connected devices in your home, the more bandwidth you need to enjoy faster internet. If you’re in a data-hungry household, consider investing in a plan that meets your bandwidth needs and delivers symmetrical upload and download speeds for lightning-fast internet in every direction. Lumos offers a range of speed packages from 200 Mbps to multi-gig fiber internet, which can support any digital life without interruption.
Cable internet providers have traditionally prioritized download speeds since more people download data than upload it. But without symmetrical speeds, you may experience buffering, lagging and glitching during video calls, gaming and file transfers. With Lumos Fiber Internet, upload and download speeds are equally fast, ensuring you never slow down, no matter what you do online.
Gbps (Gigabits per second) offers significantly higher data transfer speeds, ideal for activities like streaming HD video, online gaming and large file sharing. Mbps (Megabits per second) is more suitable for everyday internet use such as web browsing, email and SD video streaming. When choosing an internet plan, consider your specific needs and online activities to determine the appropriate speed for your digital life.
Combat slow internet speeds with these quick tips: 1) move closer to your router or reboot it, 2) remove other devices from your network, 3) update or upgrade your device or 4) upgrade your current internet plan. If nothing improves, it may be time to switch to always-fast fiber internet from Lumos. See if Lumos is available for your home.
Internet slow-downs may be the result of a bandwidth overload, a poorly placed Wi-Fi router and even speed throttling. Switch to Lumos Fiber Internet today to enjoy whole-home Wi-Fi coverage, lightning-fast upload and download speeds, consistently fast connections on multiple devices and unlimited data.
Ready to go Lumos fast?
It’s easy to switch to fast fiber internet with Lumos. Simply select the speed you need to get started:
Plan Finder Tool
How many people in your household are using the internet?
What are they using it for? Select all that apply:
These require a typical amount of speed on a fiber network. We’ll call
them
“average-use.”
These require more from your internet. We’ll call them “high-demand.”
Recommended Plan:
Speeds up to
200
Mbps
upload & download speed2
$40/mo.
Best for individuals with an average internet-use lifestyle.
Download a 2hr movie in just 3.2 minutes
No installation fees3
2Available in select locations.
Speeds up to
500
Mbps
upload & download speed2
$50/mo. for 12 months4
Best for families with average internet usage or individuals with a high-demand internet lifestyle.
Download a 2hr movie in just 1.3 minutes
No installation fees3
2Available in select locations.
Get Your First Month FREE1
Speeds up to
1
Gig
upload & download speed2
$70/mo. for 12 months4
Best for large families or multiple users with high-demand internet lifestyles.
Download a 2hr movie in just 37.9 seconds
No installation fees3
2Available in select locations.
Get Your First Month FREE1
Speeds up to
2
Gig
upload & download speed2
$100/mo. for 12 months4
Best for very large families with multiple users who have high-demand internet lifestyles.
Download a 2hr movie in just 18.9 seconds
No installation fees3
2Available in select locations.
Speeds up to
5
Gig
upload & download speed2
$0/mo.
Best for exceptionally high-demand circumstances.
Download a 2hr movie in just 7.6 seconds
2Available in select locations.
200Mbps
500Mbps
1Gig
2Gig
5Gig
Up to200Mbps upload & download speed2$40/mo.
Best for individuals with an average internet-use lifestyle.
‡Available in select locations.
Download a 2hr movie in just 3.2 minutes
No installation fees3
‡Available in select locations.
Up to500Mbps upload & download speed2$50/mo. for 12 months4
Best for families with average internet usage or individuals with a high-demand internet lifestyle.
Get Your First Month FREE1Up to1Gig upload & download speed2$70/mo. for 12 months4
Best for large families or multiple users with high-demand internet lifestyles.
‡Available in select locations.
Download a 2hr movie in just 37.9 seconds
No installation fees3
‡Available in select locations.
Flash Fiber Sale Ends 10/31 $200 Reward Card + one month of free fiber + free install!
Get Your First Month FREE1Up to2Gig upload & download speed2$100/mo. for 12 months4
Best for very large families with multiple users who have high-demand internet lifestyles.
‡Available in select locations.
Download a 2hr movie in just 18.9 seconds
No installation fees3
‡Available in select locations.
Flash Fiber Sale Ends 10/31 $200 Reward Card + one month of free fiber + free install!
Up to5Gig upload & download speed2
Please call 844.948.2012 to see if multi gig is best for you.
Best for exceptionally high-demand circumstances.
‡Available in select locations.
Download a 2hr movie in just 7.6 seconds
‡Available in select locations.
1. Free first month of service eligible on 1 Gig and 2 Gig fiber internet orders only. Regular rates apply after the first month.
2. 100% Fiber Optic network not available in all areas. Internet speeds are up to the maximum advertised upload and download speed available based on a wired connection. Speeds may vary by location and are not guaranteed.
3. Free installation eligible on all tiers from 200 Mbps – 5 Gig.
4. Promotional Fiber Internet rates are for the first 12 months of service only. Taxes, fees, and surcharges are extra and subject to change at any time. Promotional rates require purchase of listed services as described. After the first 12 months, then-current standard rates apply after the 12th month. Limited-time offer; subject to change or end without notice. Offer not valid with any other offer or promotion. Offer is only available to new residential accounts in Lumos markets where fiber is available. Downgrades from existing plans with Lumos will not qualify for the first-month discount. Services are subject to all applicable service terms and conditions found at lumosfiber.com, subject to change at any time. Equipment and additional services are extra. Service not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. All rights reserved.
5. Promotional Visa Prepaid Card: Eligible orders of 500 Mbps may receive a $100 Visa Reward Card. Eligible orders of 1 Gig or 2 Gig may receive $200 Visa Reward Card. Offer expires 10/31/2023. Card is issued by Pathward, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months after redemption; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. Customer must be current on their bill and in good standing. Card will be virtual and delivered via email and customers will be eligible to redeem 90 days after installation.