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NETWORKS · SPEED

What Is Multi-Gig Internet?

Multi-gig internet means broadband faster than one gigabit per second, typically 2, 5, 8 or 10 Gbps, usually delivered over full fiber. To use or measure it, the connected equipment needs network ports faster than Gigabit Ethernet, such as 2.5GbE, 5GbE or 10GbE, because a 1GbE port tops out at around 940 Mbps of real throughput.

01

The Short Answer

A speed test is only as fast as the device running it. A computer with a Gigabit port will report about 940 Mbps on a 2 Gbps line, however good the connection is. 2.5GbE is the first step past that limit and works over existing cabling, which makes it the practical choice for test points measuring 2 Gbps services.

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    Match the port Use a port faster than the service being tested.
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    Check the cabling Cat5e or better supports 2.5GbE over typical runs.
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    Test at the edge Measure near the customer, not only in the core.
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    Automate it Remote-managed test points avoid site visits.
02

Why It Matters

Our 2.5GbE to 10GbE FAQ explains when to go further, and our GPON vs XGS-PON FAQ covers the network. The fiber verification case study uses a 2.5GbE industrial PC to measure 2 Gbps services.