Fiber internet represents a faster broadband than practically any other type of broadband in Malaysia. When we refer to “faster”, we mean that more data transfers per second than other types of broadband services.  Essentially, fibre optic technology converts electrical signals that carry data into light, which are transferred via hair-thin glass cables. Fiber also supports simultaneous access to internet, voice and television connections.

Fibre-optics is a fairly recent development worldwide and particularly in Malaysia.  It’s available to limited areas because of the infrastructure required. In Malaysia, it’s typically known as Fibre to the Home (FTTH), and it is replacing ADSL in urban centres, bringing with it a shift to 24-month package contracts typical of a UK or US internet provider.

Fiber internet services in Malaysia typically provide speeds ranging from 5 Mbps to 100 Mbps. Companies offering FTTH include Time, UniFi, Maxis, Astro Beyond, among others. The fibre options are typically much faster than the ADSL and Wireless Broadband options.  However, fibre broadband in Malaysia is still not as fast as some fibre broadband options in the United States, like Google Fibre, which offers up to 1 Gbps.

Also, in case you’re not already aware, when you get a Fibre to the Home broadband plan, you can still have your computers access the internet wirelessly through a wireless router.  Most Fibre to the Home broadband plans in Malaysia come with a wireless router, also known as a residential gateway.

Trivia:  Fiber broadband provides internet access through fiber cables.  If you live in a landed property, the fiber cable will typically be connected directly to your home.  This is known as Fibre to the Home (FTTH).  However, if your residence is in a high rise building, the fiber cables typically only connects to a specific part of the condominium building.  Then something called a Very fast Digital Subscriber Line 2 (VDSL) will connect from that part of the building to your individual apartment. Even though an apartment isn’t directly connected with a fiber cable, you should not experience a noticeable difference in speed compared to people with fiber cables connected directly to their home.

Before deciding on a broadband plan, read this post: What is the best broadband in Malaysia for me?

Some Providers of Fiber Broadband Internet in Malaysia:

• Time Broadband Packages: A Guide
• UniFi Broadband Package for the Home
• Maxis Broadband Packages for Consumers – Fibre Broadband section
• P1 Broadband Packages – Fiber Broadband section

Do you have fiber broadband in Malaysia? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below. Also, stay in touch with us by registering for our free e-newsletter here.