Cox vs Verizon Fios: Side by Side Comparison

Verizon Fios offers broadband internet, TV, and home phone service to consumers using their fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network.

Fios was one of the first major telecom companies to deploy a large fiber optic network. They have sold parts of their network to Frontier in recent years. Regardless, Fios is still available in a handful of states.

Unlike hybrid networks, FTTH carries data over next-generation fiber optic cables all the way to a subscriber’s doorstep. The core drawback to an FTTH network layout is that it costs an Internet provider significantly more to build up-front, thanks to the high cost of fiber cable combined with the cost of labor to install that cable underground throughout an area.^[3]

That said, FTTH is generally considered the “gold standard” of consumer internet connections because it offers the lowest latency and highest bandwidth capabilities.

Cox encourages customers to self-install if possible. Assuming a residence has already been wired for Cox service, self-installation is simple using the instructions provided on the Cox website. Going this route will save money up-front for cost-conscious buyers.

On the other hand, if a residence hasn’t been wired for cable service before, it will be necessary to schedule a time for professional installation by a technician through the provider. Professional installation is also available for customers who simply don’t want to mess around with the cables and configuration themselves.