'Faster' internet coming to Perkins, Oak Harbor, Port Clinton, Fremont

PERKINS TWP. — An internet-based company not only plans to upload its presence in the region's largest city but across other highly populated areas as well. This past week, the Register publicized Omni Fiber's intentions of offering both internet and TV services in Sandusky. Then, on Thursday, a company representative informed the newspaper of expanding into other local markets. Come 2023, Omni can cater to those living in Perkins Township, Oak Harbor, Port Clinton and Fremont. • Similar to Sandusky, those residing in Perkins Township, a city suburb, primarily use Buckeye Broadband for internet and TV services. • Omni recently purchased Ohio Telecom, a dominating internet provider for Oak Harbor and Port Clinton. • Many living in Fremont use Spectrum for internet and TV. Previous reporting also highlighted how the company is also coming to Huron. Regarding pricing, the company's starting cost for internet totals $55/month for 500 Mbps speed. From there, it goes to $75/month for 1 Gig and $95 for 2 Gigs. "We realize the need for high-speed broadband in many communities, and residents are eager to have new options for internet access. We want to reach them as quickly as possible," company CEO Darrick Zucco said. People can visit omnifiber.com for more information. What is fiberoptic internet? As it name implies, Omni Fiber incorporates fiberoptic technology for its services. In short, fiberoptic internet is a pioneering technology, which: • Uses fiberoptic cables instead of copper wires for transferring data • Can send and receive this data at 70% of the speed of light, unlike traditional cables Technology experts contend fiberoptic internet, in comparison to an internet provider using more traditional cables, handles network congestion much better, meaning low lag times and higher speeds. Omni Fiber works off the following mantra: "With our 100% fiber-to-the-home network, you'll enjoy a faster, more reliable internet experience to power all of the connected devices within your home. From working from home, streaming your favorite shows, gaming or adding convenience with the latest smart home devices, fiber can power it all." Right now, Sandusky and Perkins Township residents use Buckeye Broadband as its pre-eminent internet provider. Buckeye provides internet, TV and phone coverage through traditional cables, officials said. Buckeye does also offer Wi-Fi and a fiber option as well, according to its website. Fiberoptic technology "can send and receive this data at 70% of the speed of light, unlike traditional cables," said Cody Browning, Sandusky's IT manager. Browning noted how Omni Fiber's speeds "are 40% faster than Buckeye's current offerings." "The top benefit of fiberoptic internet is the quality of your connection," Browning added. "Unlike other wired connections, and especially wireless, the fiber's signal barely degrades the further it moves from the source of the connection. For example, copper has a distance limitation that can't even be addressed adequately with repeaters." Browning also gave assurances about the new company. "Even though Omni Fiber was just founded this year, they are backed by one of the largest investment firms in the telecommunications industry and led by a leadership team with 80-plus years of combined industry experience," he said. "This network will provide affordable and reliable internet to residents and businesses, improving quality of life and economic competitiveness throughout the city."