Optical line terminal vs Switch

PrefatoryIn terms of internet connectivity, there are myriad devices which assist the user to connect itself on the World Wide Web. Switching and optical line terminals (OLTs) are some commonplace devices. NET and OD devices have different capabilities and functions. In this article, we will discuss what they do and why you want one over the other. Table of ContentsWhat is an Optical Line Terminal (OLT)? The optical line terminal device is called OLT for short, which provides interconnection between the user access network and public data networks. OLT is located at the service provider end and it filters out all traffic that travels over its Fiber. The OLT converts the electrical signals of a customer's device into optical signals, which can be transmitted by fiber-optic cable. When these optical signals are transmitted they received by the ONU (optical network unit) at user end to convert them back in normal electrical form. What is a Switch? A switch, however, is a device that can be used to tie different items for a networking purpose. It is used to administer the traffic dispatched among various devices in a network. Switches are commonly used in local area networks (LANs) because they operate faster than the traditional network hub. These are designed to make sure that sent data reaches the device for which it was meant and not some other. Benefits of Optical Line TerminalsOLTs are overtaking switches in history. One of the most important differences between OLTs and switches is that OLT devices provide internet faster than conventional switches. This is mostly due to the fact that fiber-optic cables have a much higher bandwidth than copper cables on which switches are based. Similarly, OLTs are able to cover a longer area then switches for sending data. Therefore, these are best suited for providing internet facilities in rural regions. Optical Line TerminalsOLTs are getting smarter and new innovations arrive. For example, some OLTs are now realizing software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities to take care of network administration quickly. Alternatively, technology like passive optical networks (PONs) reflects advances that lower infrastructure costs by allowing multiple users per single fiber-optic connection. Security of Optical Line TerminalsOLTs are secure to operate as well. To use them for the people without etiquette, we will cause great safety hazards. AOL needs to be installed properly and used according to the manufacturer's instructions in order for proper safety of everyone involved. Using an Optical Line TerminalTo use the lights, you must have a fiber optic connection from which to connect. When the last mile connection is deployed, then his chosen service provider will in return start installing their OLT at consumer end. An optical network unit (ONU) must be connected to an Optical Line Terminal (OLT), which is used as OLT. After that, it will be connected to your device using an Ethernet cable. OLT Service QualityThe quality of service is usually high from OLT side. Packet loss are due to the higher bandwidth of fiber cables/switches against copper wiring that is used by switches. Furthermore, OLTs are typically run by providers that: monitor the network to ensure it is running at top performance level; Optical Line Terminals ApplicationsOLTs are used mostly to give internet access out for people. They are of particular benefit where there is newer copper wiring in place. Secondly, the OLTs are also utilized in those businesses that have a demand of high-speed internet such as data centers and few financial institutions. Summary At high level, though Both are useful devices at the end of day it serve different requirement for providing internet services;ConclusionOLTs and Switches both are important in its place. OLTs provide the capacities of faster speed and longer distance data transmission than switches. OLTs, on the other hand are under constant improvement and new technical improvements (like PONs, SDN) developed. Switches are primarily used to connect devices into a network, while OLT commodify the comfortable internet connectivity for end users. In sum, the answer is YES.Answering whether these two appliances have their pros and cons in helping you accessing internet that mandatory.