How is fiber-optic internet installed?
Gabriella Martinez
Aug 7, 2024
Check this brief guide to learn how fiber-optic internet is installed and what to expect during your installation appointment.
Fiber-optic internet is transforming internet connectivity nationwide. If you’ve had the same internet plan for a few years or recently moved to a new area, you might find that fiber is now available near you.
Before you can start using your new multi-gig fiber speeds, you’ll need professional installation since most homes don’t have an existing fiber hookup. Read on for an overview of how fiber-optic internet is installed and a detailed list of what to expect during your appointment.
How is fiber internet installed?
And how does fiber internet connect to your house?
Fiber is installed the same way other internet technologies were about 30 years ago: your provider builds a central network of internet cabling, then installs branches off that main network to reach their subscribers’ homes or businesses.
Cable, DSL, and fiber providers build that last leg to your home in a variety of ways, sometimes to a node shared by multiple customers and sometimes directly to each subscriber. Fiber to the home is the best type of connection—it means lower lag and more reliable performance.
What to expect from your fiber installation appointment
During your fiber-optic installation, your technician will need outdoor and indoor access to where you want to plug in your router. Usually, they’ll complete the installation steps in this order:
- Your technician arrives, checks in with you, and helps you decide the best place to put your router.
- The technician drills a hole in your wall between that spot and the exterior, then threads it with an Ethernet or fiber-optic line and connects it to a small box called an optical network terminal (ONT). Your ONT may sit indoors next to your router or outside in a weatherproof casing.
- Outside, your technician runs a fiber-optic line from your ONT to the closest connection point with your provider’s central network, carefully anchoring the cable where needed.
- Back inside, your technician plugs your router into your ONT via Ethernet cable, then configures your Wi-Fi network—and you’re good to go.
How can I get fiber internet?
Hankering for fiber internet speeds? First, check availability. If your area is eligible for Brightspeed fiber, you’ll see plans between 200 Mbps and multiple gigs, plus a phone number where you can order.
Already have a Brightspeed account? Reach customer service for help with account snags or technical issues.