Is Ethernet over Copper (EoC) worth it?

Ethernet over Copper (EoC) uses copper phone lines to deliver high-speed Internet. It’s an affordable choice for businesses needing dependable service without the cost of fiber. But is it any good for the high demands of modern businesses?

Read on for answers to the following:

• What is copper Internet?
• Is Ethernet over Copper (EoC) obsolete?
• What are the limitations of EoC?
• What are some of the benefits of EoC?
• How does EoC compare to other network options?
• Is Meter Connect the best answer to Internet connections?

What is copper Internet?

Copper Internet is a broad term for any Internet connection that uses copper wiring. Technologies like DSL and cable Internet fall under this umbrella. The latter, however, is often referred to as copper cable Internet as it uses coaxial copper cables to transmit data.

Is Ethernet over Copper obsolete?

Not yet, but it's getting there. EoC is still a viable option for businesses that need affordable, reliable Internet without breaking the bank. It works well in areas where fiber isn't available. That said, as fiber becomes more widespread and prices drop, EoC is slowly losing ground.

If your needs lean heavily on speed or future-proofing, fiber is the obvious upgrade. But for businesses that just want solid performance on a budget, EoC still punches above its weight.

What are the limitations of EoC?

EoC's major drawback is that performance depends on how close you are to the provider's central office. Speeds usually range between 2 Mbps and 45 Mbps at the top end. Unfortunately, the farther you are, the slower things get—kind of like shouting across a field and hoping someone hears you.

The signal weakens over long distances, so businesses more than 12,000 feet away might see significant delays. If you’re outside this range, EoC might feel more like a compromise than a solution.

What are some of the benefits of Ethernet over Copper?

EoC can be a smart pick for any business; it just depends on your needs.

Affordable alternative to fiber

Fiber might be the gold standard, but it’s not exactly budget-friendly. Installing fiber can mean digging up streets, laying new cables, and spending a fortune. EoC skips all that drama by using copper lines that are already in place. It results in reliable Internet at a fraction of the cost. EoC can get the job done well for any businesses fixated on their bottom line.

Widespread availability

Copper lines are pretty much everywhere, thanks to old-school landline phones. This means EoC is accessible in many locations where fiber hasn’t set foot yet. Whether your business is in a suburban hub or an urban hotspot, there’s a good chance EoC is an option. It’s a practical solution when waiting for fiber feels like waiting for the next season of your favorite show—too long.

Reliable for short distances

EoC is at its best when you’re not too far from the provider’s central office. It's like a strong Wi-Fi signal in that regard. The closer you are, the better. Stray too far and things start to lag.

In urban and suburban areas, where central offices are closer, EoC shines with steady performance. If you’re within the ideal range, you can expect a solid connection without the issues that come with longer distances.

Scalable for growing businesses

Growth is great, but it can make your Internet feel like a crowded highway during rush hour. EoC offers flexible plans that let you bump up your speeds as your needs grow. No need to tear up your network or start from scratch. It’s an upgrade-friendly option for businesses with big plans but limited patience for complicated solutions.

How does Ethernet over Copper compare to other options?

EoC offers lower costs and reliable connectivity but falls behind in speed and scalability. When comparing EoC to other options, its strengths and trade-offs become clearer.

Fiber optics

Fiber is the heavyweight champ for business Internet speed, scalability, and future-proofing. It can handle gigabit speeds and more, making it ideal for businesses with heavy data needs. But fiber’s installation costs are steep, and availability can be limited in less-developed areas.

EoC relies on copper cable in networking, offering a more affordable alternative to fiber. It delivers dependable performance for businesses that don’t need ultra-high speeds. However, its speed and scalability are capped compared to fiber, making it less suitable for rapidly growing enterprises or data-heavy operations.

DSL

Both EoC and DSL rely on copper lines, but that’s where the similarities end. EoC generally outpaces DSL in speed and reliability, particularly over shorter distances.

DSL, however, often has broader availability in rural areas and may be more cost-effective for very basic Internet needs. EoC benefits businesses located near a central office due to its stability and higher bandwidth potential.

Wireless solutions

Wireless Internet shines when flexibility and mobility are priorities. It’s great for temporary setups or locations without wired infrastructure. However, wireless connections often face challenges like:

• Signal interference
• Weather-related disruptions
• Inconsistent speeds

EoC, while fixed in nature, offers a more reliable and consistent connection for businesses that need dependable service in a stable location.

Cable Internet

Cable Internet, delivered through coaxial cables, often provides higher speeds than EoC. It's also widely available in residential and commercial areas. However, cable speeds can fluctuate significantly during peak usage times. This is because bandwidth is shared among users in the same area.

EoC provides equal upload and download rates and a dedicated connection. As such, it becomes a better choice for businesses relying on activities like video conferencing or cloud backups.

Set up a new Internet connection with Meter Connect

Thinking about Ethernet over Copper for your business? Meter Connect makes the setup simple by cutting through the red tape of Internet service procurement. No more managing multiple providers or decoding confusing options—we make it simple to get the Internet you need without the stress.

If your business needs a little more hands-on help, our vertically integrated network (VIN) solution might be the way to go. It's more than Internet—it’s full-service network design, installation, and ongoing support, so you don’t have to sweat the details.

Whether you stick with Ethernet over Copper or explore other options, Meter has the expertise to handle your entire network. That means you can focus on what you do best—running your business. Request a quote us for more details regarding our service.