What is a common solution for dealing with congestion in a hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) network?

Node splitting into smaller serving areas is a commonly employed solution for addressing congestion in a hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) network. This process involves dividing a larger service area into smaller, more manageable segments or nodes, each serving fewer subscribers. By doing so, the network can efficiently distribute bandwidth among users, reducing the likelihood of congestion during peak usage times.

As congestion arises when too many users attempt to access bandwidth simultaneously, node splitting effectively alleviates this issue by ensuring that each smaller segment has a reduced load. This method helps to optimize performance and maintain service quality, particularly in densely populated areas or instances of high demand.

Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not directly tackle congestion in the same way. Increasing bandwidth availability may provide a temporary uplift in performance but may not be sustainable long-term without addressing underlying congestion issues. Implementing advanced encryption techniques is unrelated to congestion management, as it primarily focuses on security rather than bandwidth distribution. Upgrading to fiber optic infrastructure can enhance overall performance and capacity, but it is a more drastic and expensive step that may not be necessary when node splitting can effectively alleviate congestion in existing HFC networks.