You probably know about fiber optics, and you might think you know a bit about the gigabit passive optical network (GPON, also known as PON) that use them—but unless you take the time to investigate the sources, it’s easy to get confused. There’s plenty of misinformation and misconceptions on the Internet, much of it espoused by the companies who stand to benefit from GPON myths.
When a Cisco-sponsored white paper called “GPON vs. Gigabit Ethernet in Campus Networking,” attacked the technology, GPON advocates were quick to hit back with detailed fact checks and robust rebuttals.
When you’re considering PON for your new building or gut-and-replacement project, it’s important to critically examine all the facts: the truth is rarely as simple as black and white. While we encourage you to closely read the materials linked above, here are the high-level takeaways that shed a more nuanced light on PON.
Myth #1:
The Passive Optical Network Is a Still a Relatively New, Untested Technology
Actually, passive optical networks trace their history back to the 1990s, when telecommunication companies were first able to take advantage of fiber optics. Since then, GPON has been widely by the federal government, including the Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Energy.
Verizon has also embraced GPON on a massive national scale, using the technology to deliver its touted FiOS service. Not only is GPON a tried-and-true solution—it’s trusted by some of the biggest organizations in the world that depend on its security, reliability, and speed.
Myth #2:
The Passive Optical Network Isn’t as Secure as Ethernet
While this myth seems easy to dismiss—why would the Army and Dept. of Homeland Security rely on an insecure solution?—let’s dive a little deeper. Just like Ethernet, GPON supports AES-128 encryption and allows for strong 802.1x port-based network access control (NAC) authentication.
Fiber optic cables are also inherently more secure than copper wiring. It’s incredibly difficult to tap a fiber optic cable without being detected, and fiber is impervious to electromagnetic interference, radio frequency interference, and electromagnetic pulses. These physical advantages, coupled with advanced security and authentication capabilities, make the Gigabit Passive Optical Network a safer choice than Ethernet.
Myth #3:
The Passive Optical Network Costs More Than Ethernet
In reality, the Gigabit Passive Optical Network can cost 25% – 50% less than copper infrastructure when including components, materials, and labor. That’s because a passive optical network takes up far less space and much less energy than the Ethernet alternative.
GPON also provides cost savings by requiring less cooling and ventilation compared to Ethernet networks. Additionally, while copper typically lasts for 10 to 15 years, fiber optic cables boast a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. The truth is that it is more cost-efficient on day one—and continues to deliver meaningful savings across decades.
Once you’ve uncovered these facts, it’s no wonder that hospitals, universities, and government agencies are increasingly embracing the Gigabit Passive Optical Network. As with any major investment, it’s important to get both sides of the story before making a decision.
Eager for more insights? Contact us to learn about GPON to evaluate the benefits to your organization.
