The modern internet, cloud services, and AI tools all depend on one main thing: the fiber optic cable. These thin glass wires run under the ocean, through cities, and underground. They quietly move almost all the data we use every day.
The need for fiber is rising fast. A report from Global Market Insights says the fiber optic cable market was worth about 13 billion dollars in 2024 and may grow to around 34.5 billion dollars by 2034, rising more than 10% each year. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) also says global internet traffic will reach about 1.3 zettabytes in 2024. Home internet traffic alone is expected to reach 6 zettabytes, rising from 5.1 in 2023.
This huge rise in data use is why fiber, especially dark fiber, has become so important today.
What is a fiber optic cable?
A fiber optic cable is a type of cable that sends data using light, not electricity. Very thin strands made of glass or plastic lie inside each cable. These strands are called fibers.
Each fiber has three main parts:
- Core: the center part where the light moves.
- Cladding: a layer around the core that keeps the light inside by reflecting it back in.
- Jacket: the outside cover that protects the fiber from water, pressure, and damage.
Compared to regular copper wires, fiber optic cable works much better because:
- Fiber optic cable can carry more data over long distances.
- Because it loses far less signal as it travels, it’s more efficient than traditional copper wiring.
- Unlike metal cables, it isn’t affected by nearby electrical signals.
- Its design also makes it difficult to tap into, providing greater security.
Because of these benefits, organizations now commonly use fiber optic cable in big network systems, data centers, undersea internet lines, and 5G networks. This has helped the fiber market grow a lot.
Single mode VS Multi mode fiber optic cable
Not all fiber optic cables are the same. The two main kinds are single-mode and multi-mode. Each one is made for different distances and jobs. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right cable for your network.
Single-mode and multi-mode cables are not built the same. They have different core sizes, can send data over different distances, and handle different amounts of bandwidth. Because of this, one type works better for long-distance links, while the other is better for shorter, local connections.
Below are the details for each type:
Single-mode fiber
Single mode fiber has a very small core, so light travels in almost one straight path. Because of this, it can send data over very long distances, from tens to hundreds of kilometers, and it can handle very high speeds. This makes it the best choice for long distance links, metro areas, and connections between data centers. In 2024, research from Mordor Intelligence said that single mode fiber made up more than 63% of the fiber optic market, showing it is the top choice for large network backbones.
Multi-mode fiber
Multi mode fiber has a larger core that lets light travel in many paths at the same time. Users primarily deploy it for short-distance links inside buildings and data centers, typically spanning only a few hundred meters. Research from Precedence shows that multi mode fiber was still important in 2024, especially for short links like top of rack and other data center connections. It also held a big share in some parts of the fiber optic market.
Dark fiber infrastructure and why it matters
Organizations can rent unused fiber optic cables called dark fiber networks and activate them with their own equipment. Instead of buying bandwidth from a provider, they run the network themselves. This gives them more control over speed, routing, and security. They can also upgrade the network easily by changing the optical devices on each end without replacing the cables in the ground.
As data use grows from cloud services, video streaming, smart devices, and AI, dark fiber is becoming more popular. It lets companies get fast, low delay connections that can grow as needed. They don’t have to stick to fixed service plans and can increase speed or add more signal channels whenever their needs change. Because of this, dark fiber is now an important resource for city networks, long distance links, and data center connections. It also makes networks stronger and more ready for the future.
ARNet supports this dark fiber world by building licensed fiber networks across Southeast Asia. The company has strong experience with fiber systems and data centers. By handling everything from design and quick setup to cloud operations, ARNet helps data centers, businesses, and carriers create stable and future ready connections. This makes ARNet a trusted partner for groups planning or growing their dark fiber networks.
About the Author
Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet