Symmetrical vs asymmetrical internet: what’s the difference?

The main difference between symmetric and asymmetric internet is that symmetric internet has equal download and upload speeds while asymmetric internet typically has greater download speeds than upload speeds.

Choosing the right internet speed for your home can already be a confusing task.

Determining whether you require a symmetric internet connection for your needs can be an even more complex decision.

In this article, we explain the difference between symmetrical and asymmetrical internet speeds, and when a symmetric or asymmetric internet connection might be right for you.

Before we address symmetric vs asymmetric internet connections, let’s first define the differences between upload and download speeds.

The upload speed you need depends on how your household uses the internet, how many devices you have connected, and how many users are online at the same time.

Evaluating the upload speeds you need depend on how you use your internet:

• Live Streaming – The upload speed necessary for Live Streaming varies by platform and video file size. In general, the recommended upload speed is 3 Mbps for 480p, 6Mps for 720p and 13 Mbps for 1080p.
• Video Uploads – For uploading videos, the minimum upload speed is 2Mbps. However, unless your videos are just a few seconds long, that’s probably too slow. You’ll see much better results with an upload speed of 20Mbps.
• Video Calls – For group calls, 1.5Mbps upload speed is enough for clear sound and video.

Not sure if you’re getting the speeds you need? Test your internet connection.

A symmetrical internet connection provides users with upload and download speeds that are the same.

For example, with Symmetric Gig Internet, your download speed is 1000 Mbps and your upload speed will also be 1000Mbps.

Many internet connections these days are asymmetric, meaning you typically receive 40-50 Mbps upload speeds.

Since the advent of the internet, this was sufficient for most online activities such as streaming TV shows, browsing the internet, or connecting a few smart home devices.

However, as the uses of the internet have evolved, including the 18% increase of IoT devices in the home, so have the requirements on upload speeds.

A symmetric internet connection might be right if you:

• Are a Business Owner – A fast upload speed is imperative for businesses to ensure employees can share files, post to social media, upload videos, and do everything that their daily routine requires with no slowdowns. Astound for Business offers Business Class Internet featuring a symmetric fiber internet connection to keep you and your company connected.
• Are a Remote Worker – When you work from home, the internet is what connects you to coworkers, clients and more. Nimble upload speeds to make sure large files like PDFs and graphics can be uploaded quickly, as well as to make video calls run smoothly, are a job requirement.
• Are a Content Creator – When your livelihood is dependent on getting content to viewers, excellent upload speeds are a must to make sure images, videos and livestreams are delivered to your audience efficiently.
• Are a Livestreamer – You need solid, swift upload speeds to power a high quality livestream that keeps viewers tuned in and ensures smooth, high-quality game play.
• Are a Student – Even if you aren’t learning remotely, accelerated upload speeds mean you can send that massive project to your professor quickly and confidently.

An asymmetric internet connection means that download and upload speeds aren’t equal.

Generally, download speeds are faster than upload speeds. For example, with a download speed of 100 Mbps, your upload speed will only be 5 Mbps.

While symmetric internet is useful for certain tasks, it may not be the best option for you if you don’t upload a lot of files or won’t be hampered by an occasional slowdown in the speed of your network.

An asymmetric internet connection might be right if you:

• Are looking to save money – Asymmetric internet connections can sometimes be less expensive than symmetric connections.
• Only need fast download speeds – Even though uploading will take longer, you’ll still get fast download speeds with an asymmetrical connection. If uploading isn’t a high priority for you, you’ll likely be happy with an asymmetrical connection.
• You mostly use the internet for web surfing – You can be perfectly content with an asymmetrical connection if you primarily use the internet to search the web or post on social media.
• You only have one user on your network – If you live alone or usually only have one person online at a time, symmetric internet is likely overkill.
• Have an older modem – If your modem is older than DOCSIS 3.1, it isn’t compatible with symmetric internet.