BBT Residential Fiber Internet FAQs
Better internet for your home
Q - What is fiber?
A - Fiber optics is the best technology available for voice and data (internet) – it is reliable, future proof and also provides increased security and value. Unlike other broadband technologies such as traditional cable, fiber uses pure glass strands to transmit data using waves of light.
Q - How does installing fiber to my home or business benefit me?
A - Faster broadband connections and the ability to download large amounts of data instantly are the main benefits. Fiber-optic networks also support advanced services such as 4K video. This upgrade increases the value and attractiveness of your property. National averages of up to 6 to 10 thousand dollars in increased value have been reported.
Q - Why is BBT expanding its fiber network?
A - Access to high-speed broadband is extremely important to rural communities. Since 2005, BBT has been growing its fiber network to now serve 19 communities in the West Texas area. In 2020, BBT will be bringing fiber to even more customers. Fiber expansion is part of a bigger overall 5-year plan, and we will be primarily focused on replacing older copper technology in existing services areas.
Q - What new services will be available through fiber?
A - Speed of light telecommunications: increased broadband speeds, reliable and seamless video and audio streaming experiences, and a state-of-the-art network built to last a lifetime. With a fiber connection, you will receive, but are not limited to, upload and download internet speeds of up to 1 Gigabit (1,000 Mbps), with extremely low packet loss, latency, and jitter. Your internet service will be the fastest in this area.
Q - Do I need to sign anything prior to the fiber installation?
A – No, your fiber connection will become part of your BBT service plan. There is no need to sign any forms or paperwork.
Q - Will there be any installation charges associated with my new fiber connection?
A – No, BBT will install your fiber connection at no charge to you.
Q - Does BBT offer any incentives to get a fiber connection?
A – Please contact us and we will check our current promos for eligibility.
Q - Will there be any changes to my bill?
A – Your improved broadband connection will bring you faster, more reliable internet service. The internet package you currently subscribe to will no longer be available, and it will be replaced by your new fiber package which will be priced at fiber package rates. If you decide to subscribe to higher speeds and additional BBT services, you will be billed at the regular rates for those services.
Q - When will I get fiber installed?
A – After you contact BBT indicating your interest in a fiber connection, we will contact you to schedule your installation. The timeline will depend on how many other installations are scheduled in your area.
Q - Will you be digging in my yard?
A – No, typically fiber service is delivered via aerial.
Q - Will you need to get inside my home or business to install fiber?
A - Yes, we will need inside access to complete the installation. Someone over the age of 18 years must be present while our installers are inside your home or business.
Q – I am a renter, can I get fiber installed at my residence or business even though I am not the owner?
A – Yes, you can sign up for BBT’s fiber connection…we recommend you review your renters agreement for landlord restrictions.
Q - What if I can’t be present at the property to complete my fiber installation?
A - If you can’t be on location at the scheduled time, we request that you inform us as soon as possible to reschedule your installation appointment.
Q - How long will the installation take?
A - An average standard installation takes about 4 hours, depending on your circumstances. This would include outside and inside work. BBT will do the work in daylight hours on Mondays through Fridays and will make every effort to minimize the impact on your schedule.
Q - Will my service be interrupted?
A - We anticipate minimal disruption to your telephone service. In some cases, there may be temporary disruption to your Internet services. We will make every effort to minimize your inconvenience.
Q - Will my telephone service change?
A - No, and there is no need to change or purchase new equipment. Telephone service will operate exactly as before, with no changes to your telephone rates or any installation costs. Emergency 911 and operator services will remain the same.
Q - Will I still need telephone service in order to get internet service?
A – Phone service is required based on your location. Please contact BBT for more information.
Fiber with phone service required
Big Bend National Park
Big Canyon
Calamity Creek
Comstock
Heath Canyon
Lajitas
Langtry
Presidio
Redford
Sanderson
Sheffield
Six Shooter
Terlingua
Fiber with optional phone service
Alpine
Crane
Del Rio
Iraan
Ft Davis
Ft Stockton
Marfa
Marathon
McCamey
Terminal
Valentine
Q – I have more questions about BBT fiber – where can I go to get more information?
A – You can call BBT at 800.592.4781 or email us at csr@bigbend.com.