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For some of us, the internet is more than just a way to check email or watch videos; it’s a critical tool for our work and passions. If you’re a content creator uploading massive 4K files, a competitive gamer where every millisecond counts, or a remote worker juggling large datasets and constant video conferences, your internet connection is your lifeline. A 2 Gig plan with symmetrical upload and download speeds isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for peak performance. While the 2 gig internet price per month is a factor, it’s best viewed as an investment in your productivity and craft. We’ll break down exactly how these speeds can transform your workflow.
Key Takeaways
- Think Household Capacity, Not Just Device Speed: A 2 Gig plan shines by providing enough bandwidth for everyone in a busy home to stream, game, and work simultaneously. It’s less about making one laptop faster and more about preventing slowdowns across dozens of connected devices.
- Your Hardware Must Match Your Speed: To get the performance you pay for, you need a Wi-Fi 6 router with a multi-gig port. Also, ensure your plan includes symmetrical speeds and no data caps, so you can use your connection without limits or bottlenecks.
- Evaluate Your Need Before You Upgrade: Before committing, look for transparent pricing without hidden fees or surprise rate hikes. Honestly consider if your family's internet habits truly require 2 Gig power, as a 1 Gig plan is often the more practical and cost-effective choice for most homes.
What Is 2 Gig Internet?
Let's start with the basics. When you hear "2 Gig internet," it simply means an internet connection with speeds up to 2,000 Megabits per second (Mbps). To put that in perspective, it’s twice as fast as a 1 Gig (1,000 Mbps) plan and a huge leap from the average internet speeds many people are used to. This isn't just a small upgrade; it's the kind of speed that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, from streaming 4K movies on multiple screens to downloading massive files in seconds.
This level of performance is possible because 2 Gig internet runs on a fiber-optic network. Instead of relying on old copper cables, fiber uses light to transmit data, which is why it’s so incredibly fast and reliable. Think of it as the difference between a winding country road and a multi-lane superhighway for your data. With a connection this powerful, you’re not just getting faster internet; you’re getting a more stable and consistent online experience. You can explore the different high-speed options available on our services page.
How Does 2 Gig Internet Work?
The magic behind 2 Gig internet is fiber-optic technology. The connection is delivered to your home through cables made of tiny, flexible strands of glass. Data travels through these strands as pulses of light at, well, the speed of light. This method is far more efficient and durable than the technology used for traditional cable or DSL internet, which relies on copper wires that are susceptible to signal degradation over distance and interference from weather or electrical noise.
Because fiber-optic cables are less prone to disruptions, you get a much more reliable connection. This means fewer slowdowns during peak hours when everyone in your neighborhood is online. It’s a direct, powerful link from the internet to your home, built to deliver consistent, ultra-fast speeds. Our commitment as a local provider is to build and maintain this modern infrastructure to keep our communities connected.
What Are Symmetrical Speeds?
One of the biggest game-changers with fiber internet is symmetrical speeds. This means your upload speed is just as fast as your download speed. With a 2 Gig plan, you get 2,000 Mbps for downloading and 2,000 Mbps for uploading. Most cable internet plans are asymmetrical, offering fast downloads but only a fraction of that speed for uploads, which can create frustrating bottlenecks.
Why does this matter? We do a lot more than just consume content online. Fast upload speeds are crucial for smooth video calls without freezing, competitive online gaming with low lag, and quickly backing up large files to the cloud. For content creators, remote workers, or anyone who shares large amounts of data, symmetrical speeds are a necessity for a seamless and productive online life.
What Equipment Do You Need for 2 Gig Speeds?
To take full advantage of a 2 Gig connection, your equipment needs to be up to the task. Your internet provider will install an Optical Network Terminal (ONT), which is the device that brings the fiber connection into your home. From there, you’ll need a router that can handle these next-level speeds. We recommend a router that supports Wi-Fi 6 (or 802.11ax), as it’s specifically designed for faster performance and managing multiple devices at once.
Using an older router with a 2 Gig plan is like putting a lawnmower engine in a race car; you simply won’t get the performance you’re paying for. For the absolute fastest connection, plugging your computer directly into the router with an Ethernet cable is always the best option. If you have questions about router compatibility, our support team is always here to help you find the right gear.
Who Really Needs 2 Gig Internet?
Let’s be honest, 2 Gig internet sounds like a massive amount of speed, and for many people, it is. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The real question isn’t just about the number; it’s about your lifestyle. Do you live in a home where the Wi-Fi password is the first thing guests ask for? Are you constantly juggling work-from-home video calls while your kids are gaming or streaming shows? If so, you might be the perfect candidate for an upgrade.
Think of your internet connection like a highway. A 1 Gig plan is a wide, multi-lane freeway that works great for most traffic. But during rush hour, when everyone is trying to get somewhere at once, things can slow down. A 2 Gig plan is like adding several more lanes to that freeway. It ensures that even during the busiest times, everyone has a smooth, fast ride with no digital traffic jams. It’s designed for households and users who push their connection to the limit, from large families with dozens of devices to content creators uploading massive files. If you’re tired of negotiating screen time or scheduling downloads, a 2 Gig plan might be the answer.
For the Busy, Connected Household
If your home feels more like a bustling tech hub than a quiet retreat, a 2 Gig plan can restore the peace. Imagine this scene: you’re on an important video conference in your home office, your partner is streaming a 4K movie in the living room, one of your kids is in a competitive online game, and the other is on a video call with their grandparents. All the while, your smart security cameras, speakers, and thermostat are running in the background. In a modern connected home, it’s not unusual for a dozen or more devices to be active at once. A 2 Gig connection handles this kind of heavy, simultaneous usage without breaking a sweat, ensuring no one’s experience is compromised by buffering or lag.
For Remote Workers, Gamers, and Creators
For power users, a reliable, ultra-fast connection isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. If you work from home, 2 Gig internet means your video calls are crystal clear and you can download or upload large project files in seconds, not minutes. Gamers get a huge advantage with near-instant downloads for massive new games and updates, plus the low latency needed for competitive play. And for content creators, the symmetrical upload speeds that come with a fiber internet plan are a game-changer. Uploading a 4K video to YouTube or sending a huge photo gallery to a client happens so fast you’ll have more time to focus on your next creative project.
For Smart Homes and Future-Proofing
A 2 Gig plan is also a smart move for anyone building a connected smart home or simply wanting to prepare for the future. While a single smart lightbulb doesn’t use much data, the combined demand of dozens of devices, from security systems and smart appliances to voice assistants, adds up. This constant communication requires a robust network that won’t buckle under pressure. More importantly, technology is always advancing. With 8K streaming, virtual and augmented reality, and other data-hungry innovations on the horizon, a 2 Gig connection ensures your home is ready for whatever comes next. It’s an investment in a seamless digital future, so you won’t have to think about upgrading again for years to come.
How Much Does 2 Gig Internet Cost?
Figuring out the price of 2 Gig internet can feel a bit like comparison shopping for a new car. The sticker price is just the beginning, and what you actually pay can vary quite a bit. The cost depends on where you live, which provider you choose, and what kinds of promotions are available. While 2 Gig used to be a premium, hard-to-find service, it’s becoming more common and affordable. The key is to look past the monthly rate and understand what you’re truly getting for your money, from speeds and equipment to customer support.
How Prices Vary by Provider
When you start looking at 2 Gig plans, you'll notice a wide range of prices. National providers often set the baseline, but their rates can differ significantly. For example, AT&T Fiber’s 2 Gig plan is often around $150 per month, while Optimum might offer a similar speed for about $90 per month. Verizon Fios typically falls somewhere in the middle at around $110 per month. These prices aren't set in stone and can change based on your specific location and any introductory offers. It’s always a good idea to see what multi-gig internet plans are available in your area to get a sense of the market. As a local Texas provider, we at Novos Fiber focus on transparent, straightforward pricing without the gimmicks, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
What’s Included in a 2 Gig Plan?
A 2 Gig plan is more than just a number. Most fiber providers, including Novos, offer symmetrical speeds, meaning your 2 Gbps download speed is matched by a 2 Gbps upload speed. This is a huge deal for video calls, uploading large files, and live streaming. Beyond speed, providers often bundle in other perks to stand out. For instance, some plans include free security software or a subscription to a streaming service for a limited time. Other providers might include things like remote PC support to help with computer issues. While these extras can be nice, it’s important to focus on the core service. A reliable, high-speed connection and excellent customer support are the most critical parts of any 2Gbps fiber internet package.
Is 2 Gig a Good Value for the Price?
This is the million-dollar question, or in this case, the hundred-dollar-a-month question. Is 2 Gig internet a good value? It depends entirely on your needs. If your household is constantly pushing the limits of a 1 Gig connection with multiple people streaming in 4K, gaming, and working from home, then yes, the upgrade is absolutely worth it. You'll notice a significant improvement in performance and a reduction in lag. However, if you aren't fully using your current internet bandwidth, doubling it won't magically speed everything up. As some users have found, upgrading won't fix issues related to slow servers on the other end of your connection. Many households find that a standard 1 Gig plan is more than enough for their daily activities. It’s worth thinking about whether you truly need the extra power before deciding if it's worth getting 2 Gig speed.
Can You Lower the Price with Promotions or Bundles?
Let's be honest, who doesn't love saving a few bucks? The sticker price for a 2 Gig internet plan isn't always the final price you'll pay. Many internet service providers use promotions and bundles to make their plans more attractive, and if you play your cards right, you can definitely lower your monthly bill. However, these deals often come with fine print that’s important to understand before you sign on the dotted line.
Knowing how these offers work can help you decide what’s truly a good value. Some providers lure you in with a low introductory rate that skyrockets after a year, while others reward you for bundling services. It’s a bit of a game, and the rules change depending on the company. The alternative is to find a provider that offers straightforward, transparent pricing from day one, so you always know what to expect. At Novos Fiber, we believe in simplicity and honesty, which is why our internet plans come without the confusing gimmicks. But if you're exploring all your options, here’s what you need to know about finding a deal.
Finding New Customer Deals
One of the most common ways to get a lower price on internet service is by snagging a new customer deal. Providers are always competing for your business, and they’ll often roll out the red carpet with an attractive introductory rate for the first 12 months. For example, some national carriers offer significant discounts on their fiber plans for new sign-ups.
While this initial discount is tempting, the key is to look beyond that first year. This promotional pricing is temporary. Always ask what the standard rate will be once the promotional period ends. A great deal for one year might turn into an overpriced plan for the next two, so doing a little math upfront can save you from a surprise bill down the road.
Using Bundles and Loyalty Discounts
Another popular strategy for saving money is bundling your internet with other services, like a mobile phone plan or cable TV. Major providers that offer multiple services often give you a discount for keeping everything under one roof. For instance, you might be able to save on their monthly fiber internet bill if you also have a qualifying wireless plan with the same company.
This can be a great way to streamline your bills and get a consistent discount. The trade-off is that it ties you more deeply to a single provider, which can make it harder to switch if you become unhappy with one of the services. It’s worth weighing the convenience and savings against the flexibility you might give up.
What Happens to Your Rate After Year One?
This is the million-dollar question. That amazing introductory offer you signed up for won't last forever, and what happens next is critical. In many cases, your monthly rate will automatically increase to the provider's standard price, which can be a significant jump. This is often referred to as the "promo cliff," and it catches a lot of people by surprise.
Some providers might lock in your rate for a few years after the promotional period, but this isn't a given. Before you commit, read the terms of service carefully to understand exactly how your bill will change. Or, you can choose a provider that values transparent pricing and skips the temporary deals altogether. A straightforward, fair price from the start means no unwelcome surprises on your bill a year from now.
What Hidden Costs Should You Look For?
The sticker price on a 2 Gig internet plan is just one part of the equation. Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s smart to look for potential hidden costs that can inflate your monthly bill or hit you with unexpected upfront charges. Some internet service providers are notorious for burying fees in the fine print, turning a great-sounding deal into a budget headache.
Being aware of these common costs ahead of time helps you ask the right questions and find a provider that values transparency. A great internet provider should be upfront about every charge on your bill, with no confusing jargon or last-minute additions. After all, you’re looking for blazing-fast internet, not a blazing-hot bill full of surprises. Let’s walk through the three biggest areas where extra fees tend to pop up, so you can be fully prepared.
Installation and Equipment Fees
Getting your home set up for multi-gig speeds isn't always a simple plug-and-play situation. Some providers require a professional installation, which can involve a technician spending several hours at your home running new wiring. This service often comes with a one-time installation fee. On top of that, many companies charge a monthly equipment rental fee for the specialized gateway or router needed to handle 2 Gig speeds. While it might only be $10 or $15 a month, that adds up over a year. Always ask what’s included in your plan and if there are any separate charges for installation or hardware.
Data Caps and Overage Charges
A data cap is a limit on how much data you can use each month. For a plan built for heavy use like 2 Gig internet, a data cap can feel incredibly restrictive. If you exceed the limit by streaming 4K movies, downloading large game files, or backing up your work, you could face steep overage charges. Thankfully, many modern fiber providers have done away with this practice. When you’re shopping around, make sure you get a clear "yes" or "no" on whether the plan has data caps. True unlimited data is essential to actually enjoy the speeds you’re paying for without constantly checking your usage.
Contracts and Early Termination Fees
Locking yourself into a one or two-year contract can feel a bit like a trap. If you need to move, or if the service simply doesn’t live up to its promises, breaking that contract can trigger a hefty early termination fee (ETF). These fees can cost you hundreds of dollars. Look for providers that offer month-to-month plans. A company that doesn’t require a long-term contract is often more confident in its service, because it knows it has to earn your business every single month. This flexibility is a huge plus and speaks volumes about a provider’s commitment to its customers.
2 Gig vs. 1 Gig: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Deciding between a 1 Gig and a 2 Gig internet plan can feel like choosing between a sports car and a supercar. Both are incredibly fast, but is the extra power really worth the price? For most households, 1 Gig fiber internet is more than enough for seamless streaming, gaming, and remote work. The jump to 2 Gig is less about getting faster speeds for a single task and more about expanding your home’s total internet capacity.
The real question is whether your household’s internet use is heavy enough to justify doubling down. If you live in a home with multiple power users, run a data-heavy business from home, or simply want to prepare your home for the next wave of technology, the upgrade could be a game-changer. Let’s break down the practical differences to help you decide if it’s the right move for you.
Comparing Speed and Performance
On paper, the math is simple: 2 Gig internet is twice as fast as 1 Gig internet, delivering speeds up to 2,000 Mbps. Think of it like adding more lanes to a highway. A 1 Gig connection is a wide-open freeway, but a 2 Gig connection turns it into a superhighway, allowing far more traffic (data) to flow at top speed without causing a jam. For one person browsing or streaming, the difference is barely noticeable. But for a household with multiple people simultaneously gaming, streaming in 4K, and on video calls, that extra capacity prevents slowdowns and ensures everyone has a smooth experience.
Which Activities Get a Real Upgrade?
The upgrade to 2 Gig becomes most apparent during high-bandwidth activities. For content creators or remote workers who regularly transfer massive files, the time savings are significant. A 10GB file that takes over a minute to download on a 1 Gig connection can be done in about 40 seconds on 2 Gig. It’s also a huge advantage for homes with numerous connected devices. A 2 Gig plan can comfortably support a dozen or more users all streaming in 4K or 8K, gaming competitively, and running smart home devices without a single hiccup. This makes it ideal for large, tech-savvy families or shared living spaces where internet demand is always high.
When a 1 Gig Plan Is the Smarter Choice
More speed isn't always the answer. If your current 1 Gig plan feels slow, the issue might not be your connection but other bottlenecks. Often, server limitations are the real culprit; you can only download a file as fast as the server can send it. Similarly, if your router, computer, or smartphone isn't capable of handling multi-gig speeds, you'll be paying for performance you can't use. For the vast majority of homes, a reliable 1 Gig plan from a provider like Novos Fiber delivers all the performance needed for a top-tier online experience, making it the more practical and cost-effective choice.
Common Myths About 2 Gig Internet
With all the buzz around multi-gig speeds, it’s easy to get tangled in a web of misinformation. A 2 Gig plan can be a game-changer for the right household, but it’s important to understand what you’re actually paying for. Let’s clear the air and look at some of the most common myths about 2 Gig internet, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Myth: "You'll Always Get Full 2 Gig Speeds"
Here’s the deal: advertised speeds are always "up to" a certain level. While a 2 Gig fiber connection provides an enormous capacity for data, you won't see a 2 Gbps speed test result on a single laptop. Why? Because your actual speed depends on a few things: the server you're connecting to, your device's own hardware limits, and whether you're using Wi-Fi or a wired connection. The real magic of 2 Gig is its ability to support dozens of devices at once without a slowdown. Your game console, smart TV, and work computer can all run at their maximum potential simultaneously. If you ever have questions about your connection, our local support team is always here to help.
Myth: "Your Old Router Will Work Just Fine"
Your internet is only as fast as its weakest link, and often, that’s an outdated router. To truly get the benefit of a 2 Gig plan, you need equipment that can handle those speeds. Your router must have a multi-gig WAN port (at least 2.5 Gbps) to receive the full speed from the source. For the best wireless experience, you’ll want a router that supports Wi-Fi 6 or, even better, Wi-Fi 6E. These newer standards are designed for higher speeds and less congestion in busy homes. While a direct Ethernet connection is still the gold standard for speed, your router is the gateway for your entire home’s connectivity, so having the right one is non-negotiable for multi-gig performance.
Myth: "Faster Internet Means Lower Latency"
Many people think bandwidth (speed) and latency (ping) are the same, but they play different roles. Think of bandwidth as the number of lanes on a highway and latency as the time it takes to travel from point A to point B. Upgrading from a 1 Gig to a 2 Gig plan doubles your bandwidth, but it won’t magically cut your latency in half. The good news is that a quality fiber network already provides incredibly low latency, which is crucial for responsive gaming and smooth video calls. We built our network with a focus on reliability and performance, which you can learn more about in our commitment to the communities we serve. A 2 Gig plan helps by ensuring background activities don't cause lag spikes, keeping your connection stable.
Myth: "Every Home Needs 2 Gig Internet"
Let’s be honest: not every household needs 2 Gig internet today. For many families, our 1 Gig plan offers more than enough speed for streaming 4K movies, working from home, and connecting a house full of smart devices. So, who is 2 Gig for? It’s for the power users, the tech-forward families, and anyone who wants to future-proof their home. If you’re a content creator uploading massive video files, a serious gamer who livestreams, or live in a home with multiple people who are all heavy internet users, the extra bandwidth will make a noticeable difference. You can check to see if our future-ready internet plans are available in your neighborhood.
How to Choose the Right 2 Gig Plan
Deciding to get 2 Gig internet is the first step; picking the right provider is the next. With different companies offering similar speeds, the best choice comes down to the details. It’s about finding a plan that delivers on its promises without any frustrating surprises. By focusing on a few key areas, you can confidently select a service that fits your home and your budget.
Prioritize Reliable Speeds and No Data Caps
A 2 Gig plan sounds great, but it’s only valuable if you can actually use it. Look for a provider that guarantees reliable speeds and, just as importantly, has no data caps. A data cap is a limit on how much internet you can use each month. If you exceed it, you could face slower speeds or extra charges on your bill. True fiber internet providers often skip data caps entirely, meaning you can stream, game, and download as much as you want without penalty. Always confirm that your plan allows for unlimited data so you can enjoy your fast connection without worry.
Check for Equipment and Wi-Fi 6 Compatibility
To get the full benefit of 2 Gig speeds, your hardware needs to be up to the task. Your provider should supply a router that can handle multi-gig speeds, and it’s best if it supports Wi-Fi 6. Wi-Fi 6 is the modern standard for wireless internet, designed to deliver faster speeds more efficiently, especially in a house full of connected devices. If you’re using a wired connection for a gaming PC or workstation, you’ll also need a gigabit network card. Before signing up, ask what equipment is included and confirm it’s powerful enough to support the speeds you’re paying for.
Demand Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Fees
The price you see advertised should be the price you pay. Unfortunately, some internet providers are known for adding hidden costs like installation fees, equipment rental charges, and promotional rates that skyrocket after a few months. Read the fine print carefully. Look for a provider that offers transparent, all-in pricing without requiring a long-term contract. Fiber providers are often more straightforward, sometimes including the necessary equipment and installation in your monthly rate. Don’t be afraid to ask customer service directly: "Are there any other fees I should know about?"
Choose a Provider with Local Support
When your internet goes down, the last thing you want is to get stuck in an endless phone tree with a national call center. Choosing a provider with a local presence can make a huge difference. Local support teams understand the specific challenges in your area and are often more invested in helping their own community. Before committing, check where the company is based and read reviews about their customer service. A provider that is active and trusted in your neighborhood, like one you can find by checking a local service map, is more likely to provide the personal and effective support you deserve.
So, Is 2 Gig Internet Worth It for You?
After looking at the speeds, the costs, and the technology, the big question remains: is a 2 Gig plan actually worth the investment for your home? The honest answer is, it depends entirely on how you use the internet. For some, it’s a game-changing upgrade, while for others, it might be more power than they currently need. The best way to decide is to take a quick look at your household’s digital habits.
Think of it this way. A 2 Gig connection is designed for homes with heavy, simultaneous internet demands. You’re a prime candidate if your home regularly has a dozen or more people online or over 25 connected devices running at once. This includes not just phones and laptops, but also smart TVs, security cameras, gaming consoles, and smart home gadgets. If you’re a content creator uploading massive video files, a serious gamer who needs the lowest possible latency, or a remote worker transferring huge datasets while the rest of the family streams in 4K, 2 Gig internet will make everything feel seamless. It’s also a fantastic way to future-proof your home, as the average family’s data usage is expected to continue climbing.
However, it’s important to be realistic about your needs. For most families, even those who enjoy streaming, gaming, and working from home, a 1 Gig plan is often the perfect sweet spot. It delivers incredible speed and reliability for everyday use without the premium price tag of a multi-gig plan. Before you make a decision, consider which of our internet plans aligns best with your current and near-future needs. The goal is to find a solution that eliminates buffering and lag without overpaying for bandwidth you’ll never use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the real-world difference between 1 Gig and 2 Gig internet? Think of your internet connection as a highway. A 1 Gig plan is a wide, efficient freeway that handles daily traffic beautifully. A 2 Gig plan is like adding several more lanes to that freeway. For a single car, the speed limit is the same, but the extra lanes mean far more cars can travel at top speed without causing a traffic jam. In your home, this means a 2 Gig plan is built to handle dozens of devices all demanding high performance at the exact same time, ensuring no one's 4K stream, video call, or gaming session ever slows down.
If I get a 2 Gig plan, will my laptop get 2,000 Mbps speeds over Wi-Fi? That's a great question, and the short answer is probably not on a single device. Your total internet capacity is 2,000 Mbps, but that speed is shared across all your connected devices. The actual speed one laptop gets over Wi-Fi depends on your router's technology (like Wi-Fi 6), your device's capabilities, and your distance from the router. The true benefit is that your laptop, smart TV, and gaming console can all pull incredible speeds at the same time without interfering with each other. For the absolute fastest connection to one computer, plugging it directly into the router with an Ethernet cable is always your best bet.
Do I really need 2 Gig internet if I just work from home and stream movies? Honestly, for many households, a 1 Gig plan provides more than enough speed for excellent performance. The tipping point for needing 2 Gig internet comes down to simultaneous, heavy use. If it's just you working and streaming, 1 Gig is perfect. But if you're on a critical work video call while your kids are in competitive online games and your partner is streaming a 4K movie in the other room, that's when you'll appreciate the extra capacity of a 2 Gig plan. It's designed for homes where the internet is constantly being pushed to its limits by multiple power users at once.
Besides the monthly price, what’s the most important thing to look for in a 2 Gig plan? Beyond the price, you should look for a provider that offers true unlimited data and doesn't lock you into a long-term contract. A 2 Gig plan is meant for heavy use, so a data cap would completely defeat the purpose and could lead to surprise fees. Likewise, a provider that doesn't require a contract is showing confidence in its service, knowing it has to earn your business every month. These factors, along with transparent pricing that doesn't hide equipment or installation fees, are signs of a trustworthy provider.
Why is everyone talking about symmetrical speeds with fiber internet? Symmetrical speeds are a huge advantage because it means your upload speed is just as fast as your download speed. With old cable internet, your upload speed is usually just a small fraction of your download speed, which creates a bottleneck. Fast upload speeds are essential for the things we do online every day, like having crystal-clear video calls without your screen freezing, backing up large files to the cloud quickly, or uploading high-resolution videos and photos without a long wait. It makes your entire internet experience feel more responsive and seamless.
