Complete guide to ADSL, fiber and telephone for your home

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Choosing the best combination of today ADSL, optical fiber and telephony It can be a real mess: hundreds of tariffs, bundled packages, TV, contracts, rollover data… and, to top it all off, a technology (ADSL) that's already being phased out. However, understanding the differences between each type of connection and knowing what the providers offer is key to not overpaying and having exactly what you need at home.

Throughout this article you will find a very complete guide on ADSL telephony categoryThis will cover: what ADSL was and how it has evolved, how it differs from fiber optics and 5G, the advantages and disadvantages of each technology, how companies are responding with their tariffs, which mobile + ADSL/fiber + TV packages might interest you, and what details to check before signing any contract. The goal is that, by the end, you'll have a clear understanding. what connection do you need depending on your type of use and your budget.

ADSL versus fiber optics: what are the real differences?

When we think Home internetThe two technologies that are most often mentioned are ADSL and fiber optics. Although their objective is the same (allowing you to browse the internet, watch online content, play games, work, etc.), the way they send data is very different, and this affects speed, stability, and the final price of the plan.

El ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADS) uses the copper pair of a traditional telephone line to transmit information. This was a huge leap forward compared to the old modem, because it allowed users to use a landline and browse the internet simultaneously, with acceptable speeds for the time. The problem is that this type of connection is heavily dependent on the... wiring condition And because of the distance from your home to the central office, what you contract for rarely matches what you actually receive.

Instead, the optical fiber resort to a fiber optic cable It consists of extremely fine filaments of glass or plastic that transmit data through pulses of light. This technological difference makes possible connections hundreds of times faster and much more stable than ADSL, with speeds that can reach 600 Mbps, 1 Gbps and even more, and with the possibility of equal download and upload speeds (symmetric fiber).

While with a ADSL connection In the best-case scenario, speeds of around 20-30 Mbps are achieved, but fiber optics allows for significantly faster speeds. Thanks to this, uses such as the following have become widespread: streaming in HD and 4K, high-quality video calls, intensive teleworking, online video game platforms, or uploading large volumes of files to the cloud.

There is another key point: ADSL is asymmetric by design. This means that the download speed It's always much higher than the upload speed, usually around 10% of the advertised download speed. With fiber, on the other hand, it's common to have symmetrical connection (same speed for uploading and downloading), something essential if you work by sending files, doing live streaming, or making many video calls.

ADSL today: a technology in decline but still present

Although for years he was the king of fixed connections, the ADSL is living its farewellOperators have been progressively shutting down copper exchanges to replace them with FTTH (Fiber To The Home) fiber networks and other alternative access methods such as radio or satellite.

Around 94% of the ADSL lines They have already migrated to fiber optic technologies, and the remaining percentage has been allocated to solutions such as radio access (over 3G, 4G, or 5G networks) or via satellite, especially in areas where deploying fiber optics is not economically viable. Even lines that previously only offered voice service are being migrated to radio-based systems.

Despite this process of closing copper exchanges, ADSL remains the preferred option. Good old-fashioned fixed internet In some homes, especially in rural areas or neighborhoods where fiber optic internet hasn't yet arrived, copper wiring remains a viable solution for basic uses: browsing the internet, checking email, using social media, or streaming content in standard definition, provided the copper pair and distance from the central office are sufficient.

However, the trend is clear: companies have stopped market new ADSL subscriptions In most areas, the focus is heavily on fiber optics and alternative wireless connections. If you sign up for an internet plan today, you'll typically be offered fiber or, failing that, a radio/5G access solution.

How ADSL has evolved and what types existed

To better understand where we stand, it is worth briefly reviewing the history of ADSL and its various technical versions, as well as the technologies that preceded it and paved the way for the home internet as we know it.

Before ADSL, the connection was made via RTC (the classic 56 kbps modem connection). These lines operated over the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), and when you connected to the internet, the landline was occupied: you could either talk or browse. Later, flat-rate plans were introduced that lowered the cost, but the experience remained slow and limited.

In parallel, the ISDNIt used 64 kbps digital channels that could be used for voice and data simultaneously through multiplexing. Its main application was in the business environment, due to the relatively high costs at that time.

The big change came with the first generation of ADSL (G.DMT)This method theoretically allowed speeds of up to 8 Mbps and began to be offered in the residential market in 256 kbps, 512 kbps, and 2 Mbps versions. The initial installation required replacing the main telephone socket (PTR) with a splitter, separating the home's internal network into two: one for the ADSL router and another for the landline phones, thus enabling simultaneous voice and internet access. In these early installations, the public IP address was usually static.

Later, for reduce costs and simplify With the rise in internet speeds came the famous USB ADSL kits. These were self-installable modems, designed for a single computer (single-user), and came with microfilters that were placed on each landline phone to prevent interference. At this point, IP addresses were already dynamic.

With the expansion of services such as pay TV over IP (for example, Imagenio back in the day) and the increase in the number of connected devices at home, the leap was made to ADSL2+ (G.992.5)This update raised the theoretical limit to 20 Mbps and it began to be marketed in increments of 3, 6, or 10 Mbps, among others. USB kits disappeared and the [unclear - possibly "wireless" or "wireless"] became the standard. ADSL router with WiFi, microfilters and dynamic IP addresses, with the splitter and static IP remaining as paid options.

In the final years of copper's life, the following was also introduced: VDSL (G.993.1)This technology was designed to offer higher speeds and lower latency, but at the cost of being significantly more demanding in terms of distance from the central office and interference. To achieve this, intermediate exchanges (Muxfins) were used to receive the fiber optic cable and distribute the final segment over copper. Although the standard allowed speeds of up to approximately 55 Mbps, commercially available speeds were primarily around 10 and 30 Mbps, always using VDSL-compatible routers and splitters.

Advantages and disadvantages of fiber optics for the user

La optical fiber It has taken over from ADSL because, in almost every aspect that matters to the average user, it comes out on top. However, it also has certain weaknesses that are worth knowing before choosing one plan over another (if you have a choice).

Among the main advantages of fiber I would highlight its enormous capacity for transmitting data. Fiber optic cables are lightweight (up to nine times lighter than copper cables), highly resistant to heat and cold, have a small bending radius, and, very importantly, are not affected by electromagnetic interference in the same way as copper. All of this translates into a stable, high-quality connection.

Another great advantage of fiber is the one already mentioned symmetry of speedsHaving the same upload and download speeds allows you to upload large videos, stream live, synchronize backups in the cloud, or participate in video conferences with a fluidity that ADSL cannot match, especially when there are several devices at home using the network at the same time.

In addition, fiber offers a greater connection security and opens the door to advanced services such as 4K streaming platforms, TV packages with many channels and features, connected home automation, online video games with low latency or intensive teleworking without disruptions.

As for drawbacks, the main one is the uneven coverageAlthough fiber optic networks have been deployed very aggressively in recent years and now reach a large part of cities and suburban areas, there are still rural areas or small towns where their presence is scarce or nonexistent. In these cases, users must make do with ADSL (if copper lines are still in use) or wireless technologies.

In addition, the transmission and reception equipment Fiber optic cables are more expensive than copper cables, and this type of cabling cannot be easily spliced, which complicates some repairs and technical interventions. Furthermore, fiber optic cable does not carry electrical power, so the router always requires a separate power supply from the electrical grid.

ADSL: strengths and limitations in practice

Despite its disadvantages compared to fiber, ADSL has played a key role in the democratization of access to the Internet and it still has some characteristics that explain its remaining validity in certain areas.

One of its great historical advantages is that it takes advantage of existing infrastructureThis allows operators to deploy broadband connections without having to lay kilometers of new cabling, which greatly reduces costs in countries where the copper network was already established, such as Spain.

Another feature that proved very attractive at the time was the possibility of talking on a landline while browsingThis was not possible with traditional dial-up connections. This, along with a good speed-to-price ratio at the time, helped millions of households switch to broadband.

Among the main disadvantages of ADSL Its main drawbacks are its lower speed compared to fiber, the asymmetry in upload and download speeds, and, above all, its dependence on the condition of the copper line and the distance to the exchange. Subscribing to 20 Mbps doesn't guarantee receiving that speed: depending on the cable section, its quality, and the noise on the line, it's common for homes to receive 10, 16, or even just 2 Mbps.

In countries or regions with few copper infrastructuresThe implementation of ADSL can be relatively expensive, which has led many places to switch directly to fiber optic networks or mobile alternatives, without going through a massive ADSL phase as happened in Spain.

ADSL, fiber and 5G: which connection to choose for your home

Currently, in addition to the classic ADSL and fiber optics, a third option has come into play: 5G as a fixed connection for the home. Each of these technologies has its own logic and target audience, so it's a good idea to look at them together to see which one is best for you.

ADSL, as we have already seen, is the older option of the three. Its appeal lies in its availability where functional copper pairs still exist and in the fact that it is usually the cheapest alternative in terms of monthly fee, although its performance in speed and stability falls far behind the rest.

Optical fiber represents the a more balanced solution It offers a balance of speed, stability, and price. It's ideal for homes where multiple devices are connected simultaneously, people work remotely, play online games, stream series and movies, or upload many files to the cloud. In Spain, speeds range from 50-100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps, available in both basic plans and bundled packages with mobile and TV.

For its part, the 5G It's the fifth generation of mobile technology and is starting to be used for home internet access as well, without the need for cabling to the home. It offers very high speeds and very low latency, making it a serious competitor to fiber optics in certain situations.

However, the functioning of 5G as Fixed internet for home It depends heavily on available coverage, network congestion during peak hours, and physical barriers such as thick walls or metal structures, which can degrade the signal. Furthermore, many 5G plans include a monthly data cap, reducing speed or charging extra if you exceed it.

Speed, stability and price: a practical comparison

If we summarize the three technologies in terms of speedFiber is the clear winner. It can easily reach 1 Gbps or more, while 5G operates at very high but variable speeds depending on the area, and ADSL rarely exceeds 20 Mbps download speed in real-world conditions.

In terms of stability, the fiber takes the lead againThanks to its resistance to interference, as it does not lose capacity with distance at the same level as copper, it is ideal for those who do not want interruptions during a video conference, an online class or a series marathon.

ADSL offers much greater stability vulnerable to external factors5G, especially on very long lines or with older cabling, is capable of providing a smooth experience outdoors or near antennas, but can suffer from fluctuations in dense urban environments, indoors, or when many people are connected to the same cell.

As to RibADSL is usually in the most economical price range, with monthly fees that have historically ranged between 20 and 30 euros. However, precisely because of its technical limitations, many operators are removing it from their offerings.

The rates of optical fiber Typical prices range from approximately €30 to €50, depending on the speed and whether or not mobile lines and other services are included. It's important to compare prices carefully because some low-cost providers offer very competitive value for money, with aggressive promotions to attract new customers.

In the case of 5G at homePrices are more variable. Some plans start from around €35, but there may be additional costs for specific equipment (such as the 5G router) and, above all, for potential data limits. Once a certain data limit is exceeded, it's common for browsing speeds to be reduced or for extra charges to apply.

What connection do you need based on your internet usage?

Beyond technology, what will truly make the difference is the your use of the network In your daily life. It doesn't make sense to pay for a symmetrical gigabit connection if you only go online to read the news, nor to get a basic ADSL connection if several people at home are working remotely and streaming at the same time.

If your digital activity is limited to Check news, social media, and email.An ADSL or low-end fiber connection could easily meet your needs, provided the copper line is in good condition and the distance to the exchange is not excessive.

For those who climb frequently videos and photos on the InternetFor example, if they generate content for social media or send large files to clients, fiber optic internet is highly recommended, ideally with symmetrical speeds. In many cases, 50-100 Mbps is more than enough.

If a lot is consumed at home online television, streaming platforms and 4K contentA stable connection with a constant minimum bandwidth is essential. A sustained 6 Mbps is sufficient for watching standard definition TV, but for HD or 4K, a higher speed is recommended. ADSL may fall short in these situations, making fiber optic or a good 5G connection the most important option.

In the case of calls and video calls For frequent use, upload speed is key. With slow connections, audio is likely to cut out or the image to freeze. That's why symmetrical fiber optic is once again the preferred choice, especially when using professional videoconferencing tools.

For lovers of online video gamesThe key variable isn't just raw speed, but latency. A low ping makes the difference between a smooth game and a frustrating experience. For this type of user, symmetrical fiber optic connections of at least 300 Mbps are recommended, avoiding solutions with high or highly variable latency.

We must not forget the number of connected devices At the same time: it's not the same to share 50 Mbps between two people as it is to share it among a family with several mobile phones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and home automation devices. The more devices sharing the network, the more advantageous it becomes to subscribe to a higher speed.

ADSL and fiber optic operators in Spain: general map

The Spanish market for telecommunications The market has diversified considerably in recent years. There are large national operators, regional companies with a strong presence in their territories, and small local or virtual operators (MVNOs) that compete with aggressive offers.

Amongst the main operators Movistar is among them, the first major ADSL and fiber optic provider in Spain, which still controls a significant portion of the broadband market. Other players include Vodafone, Orange, and the former Ono (the main cable operator, later integrated into Vodafone), as well as Jazztel, known for its no-contract plans and bundled mobile packages.

At the regional level, companies such as R in Galicia, Euskaltel in the Basque Country or Telecable In Asturias, all of them have their own cable or fiber optic networks and offer packages that combine internet, landline, mobile, and television services. In their respective territories, they are usually major players, often second only to Movistar in number of customers.

Below these great and mid-level players are the small operators or specialized. Some examples are Pepephone, which started as an MVNO and made the leap to ADSL using Vodafone's network, or Adamo, a Swedish-based operator focused on deploying fast and affordable fiber in certain areas of Spain.

We also found companies like knet In La Rioja, which uses the Movistar network to offer ADSL and fiber nationwide; Ocean's, a Galician operator that markets services over third-party infrastructure; Fibracat, which became famous for being one of the first to launch 1 Gb fiber for individuals in Catalonia; or PTV Telecom, present with its own network in several Spanish cities.

Regarding market share, Movistar It has managed to concentrate around half of the fixed broadband customers at certain times, with the rest distributed among the other operators and new brands that have appeared thanks to the advancement of technology and the liberalization of the sector.

ADSL and fiber: coverage and price differences

One of the most important points when contracting internet is the real coverage Available at your home. ADSL, by relying on existing fixed telephone lines, has a very wide presence in both urban and rural areas, although its quality depends on the length and condition of the copper pair.

Official data reflects that the ADSL coverage With speeds exceeding 10 Mbps in Spain, coverage is generally high nationwide, though there are significant variations between autonomous communities. Some regions have more developed networks, while others, like Galicia at one time, had considerably lower coverage.

La optical fiberFiber optic internet, for its part, has been gaining ground rapidly, but its distribution is still more uneven. While fiber optic coverage is very high in large cities and their surrounding areas, in some rural areas it remains scarce, forcing people to resort to other solutions, such as radio internet for rural environments or mobile access.

In terms of price, although it may seem that fiber should be much more expensive than ADSL due to its more advanced technology, the reality is that operators have invested so much money in its deployment that it is in their interest to maintain the higher price. strongly promote migrationThus, it is common to find 50 Mb fiber optic plans whose cost is similar to that of old 20 Mb ADSL lines.

The price difference starts to become noticeable when we talk about high-speed fiber (300 Mbps, 600 Mbps, 1 Gbps, etc.). Prices increase within these ranges, and are often bundled with packages that include mobile, pay TV, and other services. Even so, thanks to promotions and competition, you might end up paying the same—or even less—than for your old ADSL connection, with much better service quality.

If you're looking to save as much as possible, it's usually worth checking out the deals at MVNOs and low-cost carriers (MásMóvil, Lowi, etc.), which often focus on fiber optic and mobile plans at very competitive prices. The only thing to keep in mind is that some of these companies no longer offer ADSL, so if fiber optic isn't available at your address, you won't be able to subscribe to their plans.

Combined rates: Mobile + ADSL/Fiber + TV

Most operators have opted for the so-called converged packetsThese bundles combine home internet, one or more mobile lines, landline, and even pay TV services into a single bill. This approach simplifies management and, above all, offers discounts for having everything with the same provider.

In the section Mobile + ADSL/Fiber plans without televisionIt is common to find combinations that include a fiber connection (or ADSL in the few cases where it is still offered), a mobile line with unlimited calls and a certain volume of data (for example, 60 GB that can be accumulated), in addition to a landline with calls to national landlines and even mobiles.

When we add the Pay TV Mobile + ADSL/Fiber + TV packages come into play. The key here is the content: movie channels, series, children's programming, sports, documentaries, integrated platforms, etc. If you have an HD or 4K television, you might be interested in a package that includes high-definition channels and, of course, a sufficiently powerful connection to handle that traffic.

Packages with TV usually increase the monthly price, but they also offer more added valueFrom premium channels to streaming applications integrated into the decoder, including features such as cloud recording, live control or access to on-demand catalogs.

When deciding whether a bundle with TV is worthwhile, it's important to consider what content you'll actually watch and whether you're already subscribed to external platforms. Sometimes a bundled plan without TV, combined with separate subscriptions to services like Netflix, HBO, Disney+, etc., is a better option.

In all these packages, it's important to pay attention to possible added costsFiber optic installation, line activation, router or TV decoder rental, a second mobile line included for only a few months, price increases after the first promotional year, etc. Reading the fine print can save you from surprises on your bill.

Key tips before signing up for your ADSL or fiber optic plan

Before you rush to sign any offer, the first thing to do is decide if you'll be able to find work in your area. fiber optic or ADSL onlyMany companies offer online tools to check coverage simply by entering your address. If you have fiber optic internet, this is usually the best option in terms of value for money.

Another fundamental element is the connection speed that you really need. Consider how many people use the internet at home, what you do with the network (watch series, play games, work remotely, upload files, etc.), and how many devices connect at the same time. This analysis will show you whether 100 Mbps is enough or if it's worth upgrading to 300, 600 Mbps, or even 1 Gbps.

You should also consider whether you want landline telephone or do without itMany packages include the cost of the landline and offer unlimited calls to national landlines and even mobile phones. However, if the landline is rarely used, some providers offer the option of subscribing to internet only, which can result in small monthly savings.

La permanence This is another critical point. Many plans require you to stay with the operator for 12 or 24 months in exchange for discounts or free line installation. If you cancel before then, you may be charged a penalty. There are also some offers—though fewer and fewer—without a contract, which are very attractive for those who prefer not to be tied down.

Finally, check carefully whether the offer includes temporary promotions (For example, a reduced price for the first 6 or 12 months). Calculate how much you'll pay after those periods and compare it with other options on the market. Sometimes a slightly higher but stable price over time is more cost-effective than an initial bargain that becomes much more expensive later.

With all this context, it's easier to understand why operators are pushing towards fiber and bundled packages: it allows them to leverage their network investments, build customer loyalty, and offer added services like pay TV. For you, the key is to capitalize on that competition to keep the best fit to your actual use and your pocket.

To understand how ADSL has evolved, and why... optical fiber has taken over, what role 5G and radio connections are playing, how operators' offers are structured, and what factors influence speed, coverage, and price gives you a global overview that will help you Choose the internet and phone plan that really pays for you., without paying for services you don't need or falling short on features just when you need them most.