Fiber-optic cables carry digital information over long distances. Although it differs from Ethernet, fiber-optic internet provides a reliable connection.
In fiber-optic internet, the light beam travels down the core of the fiber-optic cables and bounces off the walls of the cable repeatedly. As a result, this process carries a digital internet connection across long distances of wire. Additionally, the presence of multiple fiber-optic strands in each wire contributes to the high speed of fiber-optic internet.
Fiber-optic internet uses fiber-optic cables to create a passive optical network (PON) and transmits data between the internet service provider (ISP) and devices in the home. When an optical network terminal (ONT) breaks the single optical signal into multiple signals, Ethernet or coax cables come into play to send the data to individual devices. Therefore, unlike Ethernet or coax, fiber-optic internet does not connect directly to a local area network (LAN).
This is where the problem starts. People with third-party routers often face uncertainty about whether their routers will work effectively. They question whether their routers will connect to the ONT or if additional requirements will be necessary to get online.
You can connect your router to the ONT, but not directly. Instead, connect your router to either an Ethernet port on the ONT or an Ethernet jack on the wall. Consequently, the router will broadcast Wi-Fi, or you can connect devices via Ethernet cables. For the best performance, use a gigabit Ethernet router with Wi-Fi 5 or higher.
What should you know to connect your router to ONT?
The ONT functions like a modem in a fiber optic internet network router setup and is installed in various locations depending on your home or property type. Since the internet service provider inspects and evaluates every detail before installing the ONT, the process for connecting your router to it will differ. Therefore, you cannot simply follow a standard process and plug your router into the ONT.
Installation locations and steps to plug in routers
Inside the wall– If the ONT is placed in a bracket, mounted to the wall, and connected to power in areas like the living room or main room, follow the below steps.
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Ensure the ONT is plugged into power and check if the lights are solid green. A green light indicates that the ONT is working. If the light does not turn on, contact your fiber optic internet service provider.
- Locate the Ethernet cable visible from the ONT. If you can’t find it, remove the faceplate. The method for sliding or removing the faceplate varies by ONT model. Connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the ONT and reattach the faceplate.
- Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the router’s designated port. Since the port name varies by manufacturer, check the labels carefully before connecting.
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Plug the router’s power adapter into the electrical wall outlet and press the Power button. The router’s light will turn on, showing that it is ready to use.
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After turning on the router, set the network name and password. Choose a strong password to prevent unauthorized access.
For additional information, refer to the router’s manufacturer user guide.
Media panel–The media panel, also known as a smart panel, functions as an enclosed cabinet mounted on the wall and contains wiring and equipment. Common locations for the media panel are laundry rooms and closets. The panel typically has a shelf for placing the router.
Connecting routers to the ONT depends on the media panel type. For a plastic media panel, follow the steps for “inside the wall.”
For metal media panels, you should consider the following steps:
- Accessing the ONT can be challenging in this setup. If you can reach it, ensure it is plugged in and that the solid green lights are on, indicating the ONT is working. If the light is not green, contact your internet service provider.
- Connect the Ethernet cable to the designated port on the router. Since the port name varies by manufacturer, check the names carefully before connecting.
- Connect the other end of the cable to an active Ethernet wall jack inside. Like the ONT, the location of the designated Ethernet wall jacks varies by property type.
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Plug the router’s power adapter into the electrical wall outlet and press the Power button. The router’s light will turn on, showing that it is ready to use.
- After turning on the router, set the network name and password. Choose a strong password to prevent unauthorized access
Garage wall– If the ONT is inside a media panel or mounted on a garage wall, follow the steps for metal media panels.
Exterior wall–If the ONT is in a weather-proof box mounted on an exterior wall of your house, follow the steps for metal media panels. Avoid touching or attempting to open the box.
You can plug your router into the ONT if possible but you must follow the right steps.
Author: TechBlonHub
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