Fiber Optics to Revolutionize Internet Connectivity in Uganda – Networks Engineer

As more Ugandans embrace the use of the Internet to accomplish different tasks in life, business, and education, network experts at Simplifi Networks are urging businesses to adopt fiber optic technology for their Internet needs.

Speaking during the recent ICT Directors Forum organized by the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU), Ambrose Ahurra, a Network Engineer at Simplifi Networks, a regional distributor of networking and communications equipment in Uganda and Kenya, emphasized the importance of embracing fiber technology in East Africa.

“The adoption of fiber is going to lead to more reliable and faster internet services, essential for both economic growth and everyday convenience.” For businesses, homes, and other facilities, embracing fiber optics is not just an option—it’s a necessity for staying competitive in an increasingly digital world.

Fiber optic technology uses light pulses to transmit data through thin glass tubes, enabling fast and reliable connectivity. Unlike traditional copper cables, which use electric signals, fiber optic technology offers longer transmission distances, higher bandwidth, and lower latency.

“Fiber optics offer several advantages for businesses, including higher speeds, greater bandwidth, and longer transmission distances,” Ahurra said. He further noted, “Fiber optics enable faster data transfer and greater bandwidth, essential for businesses relying on data-intensive applications.”

According to the UCC Market Performance Report, Uganda’s internet connections have risen to 27.7 million subscriptions as of June 2023 a rise from 27 million in March 2023, presenting vast opportunities for businesses to capitalize on enhanced connectivity. The escalating demand for high-speed internet and reliable connections has propelled fiber optic technology to the forefront, surpassing traditional copper cables with its exceptional speed and unwavering dependability.

“Fiber optic technology is the next big thing due to its unparalleled speed, reliability, and capacity to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet and data connectivity,” he added.

Research from ICT company HP reveals that businesses utilizing fiber optic internet enjoy upload speeds up to 20 times faster than those relying on cable internet. This significant speed advantage yields substantial productivity and efficiency gains, enabling companies to effortlessly handle large data transfers, host smooth video conferences, and support multiple users concurrently.

This has seen the residential sector witnessing a significant shift towards fiber optics, driven by the growing demand for high-speed internet for activities like streaming, gaming, and remote work.

“As more homes become connected with smart devices, fiber optics provide the necessary bandwidth and stability to support multiple devices and high-definition streaming without lag,” he explained.

He further added, “Many businesses are moving away from copper cable, due to cost, cable length limitations, fast throughput, and future-proofing.  The cost of Fiber vs Copper Cable can reduce the installation by as much as 50%+.  New technology in EPON/GPON can not make it easier to add POE to endpoints for cameras and Access Points.”

Ahurra highlighted a key challenge in fiber optic deployment: “One of the most common challenges is the potential for fiber cuts, which can disrupt services. This issue is often mitigated by careful planning and robust maintenance strategies, ensuring minimal downtime for users.”

Despite its advantages, deploying fiber optic networks can be challenging. The initial installation cost and the need for specialized skills and equipment are significant barriers. However, Ahurra pointed out that these challenges are decreasing over time: “Today, the tools and expertise needed to maintain fiber networks are more accessible, making it easier to deploy and manage these networks.”