New Equipment, Stronger Security and Enhanced Performance for Every Home
The HFN team has been hard at work installing fiber and upgrading homes across the community!
Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) is undertaking a multi-year upgrade to modernize its fiber infrastructure, replacing core equipment and restructuring service delivery. The overhaul will bring faster speeds, improved reliability and stronger security—without additional cost to residents.
Internet speeds are set to increase by 2.5 times and network architecture is changing as part of the transition, marking a significant shift in how you experience connectivity.
This transformation isn’t just about improving speed. It’s about creating a more robust, future-proof network and ensuring that you receive the best possible internet experience for years to come.
A Smarter, Faster Network
HFN is introducing a significant technical upgrade by transitioning from a switched network to a routed network, a move that will enhance performance, scalability and reliability.
In our switched network, multiple homes share a connection through several network switches. This means that data travels through shared paths, which can lead to slower speeds as well as network failures that impact multiple users due to individual user activities.
In a routed network, each home gets its own direct path to the internet. Instead of data being passed through shared switches, it moves through a more organized system that directs traffic more efficiently. This makes connections faster, more reliable and more secure, since each home operates independently without interference from others.
The transition to a routed network means:
- Less downtime or network events.
- Better security.
- More consistent speeds.
This change marks an exciting step forward for HFN users, bringing you a network designed for today’s internet needs and built to support the future.
New Infrastructure and Equipment Upgrades
To support these speed increases, HFN is making extensive infrastructure upgrades across the network. These include:
- New fiber deployment where necessary to enhance reliability and scalability.
- Advanced data center electronics to improve network efficiency and security.
- Upgraded in-home networking equipment to ensure you can take full advantage of higher speeds.
In addition to these upgrades, HFN is offering residents new high-performance router options that support Wi-Fi 7, multi-gig speeds and remote network management via mobile app. These routers will provide wider coverage, better device management and enhanced security features.
You will have the option to continue using your existing equipment, but for those looking to optimize their internet experience, HFN’s router upgrades will be available.
A Major Speed Boost Without a Price Increase
One of the most significant aspects of HFN’s upgrade is the increase in speed. After your home has been upgraded, you will see internet speeds increase by 2.5 times—at no additional cost.
The Rollout
HFN has already begun the upgrade process with a soft launch. This was done to allow for testing and refinement before expanding the rollout to the rest of the network. Once this phase is complete, HFN will release an estimated schedule for the remaining neighborhoods.
The upgrade will roll out section by section, improving speed, reliability and security without increasing costs. We plan to keep disruptions minimal for users while transitioning to the
new system.
Installation and Service Disruptions
Installers will assess your home before starting so you can be prepared and know what to expect.
Installation times will vary by home, typically ranging from one to five hours, depending on factors such as fiber pull lengths and existing conduit conditions.
Temporary service interruptions will occur while technicians complete the upgrade.
Staying Updated
HFN will provide regular updates on the network upgrade through its website and social media. The community can expect:
- Interactive maps detailing upgrade timelines.
- Service notifications for upcoming installations.
- Technical guidance on getting the most from the upgraded network.
This HFN upgrade is more than just a technical improvement—it’s a commitment to delivering faster, more secure and more reliable internet to users without raising costs.
HFN is committed to keeping you informed at every stage of the upgrade. Check the HFN website and follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Jeremy Fallt is the HFN general manager and a Westridge resident.
As published in the spring 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine >>>
