Most households do not need a new router when switching to fiber internet, but older equipment may not be able to support faster speeds or growing numbers of connected devices. Understanding your router’s capabilities, the role of an ONT, and what happens during installation can help you get the most out of your new fiber connection.

Upgrading your internet shouldn’t be complicated. With altafiber's fiber network, the process is designed to be simple and straightforward. Find out how actual fiber construction works in your community and what to expect before, during, and after your installation.

Do I Need a New Router When Switching to Fiber Internet?

Not always. Whether you need a new router depends on the age and capabilities of your current equipment.

You may be able to keep your existing router if it:

• Uses modern WiFi technology, such as WiFi 5 (802.11AC) or WiFi 6 (802.11ax), or newer
• Supports your new internet speed, do this by looking up your router model number on the manufacturer’s website and review its maximum supported speeds
• Is in good working condition

You may want to upgrade if:

• It is several years old
• You experience dead zones or weak WiFi coverage
• It cannot support gigabit internet speeds
• You have many connected devices in your home

Even with a fast fiber connection, an outdated router can limit performance and prevent you from getting the most out of your internet plan.

What Happens During Fiber-to-the-Home Installation?

A typical installation may include:

• Installing an Optical Network Terminal (ONT)
• Connecting your internet equipment
• Testing the connection to ensure everything is working properly

The exact process can vary depending on whether your home has had fiber service before, and how the property is configured. Click here to look at frequently asked questions about new service installations.

What Is an Optical Network Terminal (ONT)?

An Optical Network Terminal is a device that converts the fiber optic signal coming into your home into an internet connection your devices can use. It serves a similar purpose to a traditional modem, but it is specifically designed for fiber internet service.

The ONT is typically installed when a homeowner orders fiber internet service. During the appointment, a technician determines the best location, usually near where the fiber line enters the home. The ONT is then connected to the fiber network and linked to your router, allowing your devices to access the internet.

Think of the ONT box as the bridge between the fiber network outside your home and the WiFi network inside it.

How Long Does Fiber Installation Take?

Installation times can vary, but new service installations are usually completed within a few hours.

Factors that can affect installation time include:

• Whether fiber lines are already available at your home
• The location of equipment inside the home
• Existing wiring and infrastructure
• Property layout and accessibility

Your altafiber technician will help determine the best setup for your home.

What Happens During Construction of Fiber Internet In Your Community?

Before fiber becomes available in your neighborhood, you may notice mailers, door hangers, or yard signs providing advance notice of upcoming construction. About 10 days before work begins, utility flags may be placed in your yard to mark existing underground utilities and help crews work safely.

During construction, crews may dig small holes, a process known as potholing, to verify the location and depth of existing utilities. Once utilities have been identified, a construction method called directional boring is used to install fiber lines underground while minimizing disruption to yards, driveways, sidewalks, and landscaping. Fiber access boxes and distribution hubs are then installed to connect the network infrastructure.

After the network is in place, altafiber technicians place and splice the fiber optic cable along the planned route to complete the connection. Once construction is finished, fiber internet service becomes available for homes in the area.

Throughout the process, crews work to minimize and correct the impact on surrounding properties while bringing reliable, high-speed fiber connectivity to the neighborhood.

How Can altafiber Make Switching to Fiber Easier?

Upgrading to fiber internet doesn’t have to be complicated. With altafiber’s fiber network, customers benefit from:

• Fast, reliable multi-gig fiber internet
• Affordable, long-term pricing
• Whole home WiFi options with eero
• Fioptics care for eligible equipment and wiring support
• Premium technical support for connected devices and networking assistance

These services help ensure your home network is ready to take full advantage of fiber internet.

Ready to Upgrade to Fiber?