The defining characteristic of FTTH is that it connects optical fiber directly to residences. It uses optical fiber for most or all of last mile of telecommunication. Optical fiber transmits data using light signals to achieve higher performance.
FTTH access networks are basically structured like this: fiber optic cables run from a central office, through a fiber distribution hub (FDH), then through a network access point (NAP), then finally into the home through a terminal that serves as a junction box
The main benefit of FTTH is increased network performance, specifically higher speeds over a long distance, which the older method of using coaxial cables, twisted pair conductors and DSL cannot reach.
Because of its significantly higher bandwidth, FTTH is considered by experts as the best technology to handle consumer network demands in the coming decades. Some benefits that come with this include:
Improved performance for high-definition video streaming on applications like YouTube and Roku.
Allows for multiple upgrades without having to replace the fiber, leading some to call FTTH "future proof." The infrastructure surrounding the fiber can be updated without having to update the fiber itself.
Higher speeds over longer distances than previous technologies.
Better than other fiber configurations because fiber connects directly to residences and can complete remaining network segments with Ethernet or coaxial cable.