A fast and secure internet connection is a household necessity. Fiber internet is the fastest type of service widely available today. Due to its speed and effectiveness, the demand for fiber is estimated to grow 11.3% in the coming years.
If you’re thinking about getting fiber internet, you may want to learn more about the installation process. We’ll walk you through a step-by-step overview of how fiber internet is typically installed.
Finding a fiber internet provider in your area
Access to fiber internet depends on an internet service provider laying fiber infrastructure. If you live in a large city, fiber-optic cables are likely already installed near you. In some locations, there may be only one provider offering fiber internet services. Other locations may not yet have any fiber infrastructure
The first thing you’ll need to do is find a fiber internet service provider in your area. The fastest way to do this is to search online for “fiber internet near me.” This search should return a list of providers near you who offer fiber internet service. Most service providers have an address look-up on their website that let you enter your zip code and find out if their fiber services are available where you live.
Getting fiber internet service installed
After you’ve selected a provider and purchased a fiber internet service plan, a technician will install any specialized equipment needed at your address. In some cases, it may already be in place from a previous owner or tenant. The technician will typically need access to both the outside and inside of your home, which means you’ll have to be present for the appointment.
The technician will install either an ONT or a SmartNID. The first of these is a small utility box called an optical network terminal (or ONT), which goes on the outside of your home or business. The second option is an all-in-one terminal and modem unit known as a SmartNID, which is set up inside. Whether your provider installs an ONT or a SmartNID, it’s important to understand that it’s permanently installed equipment. It’s similar to a utility panel on the outside of the building, or a traditional phone jack, which are not removed when someone moves out. This permanent equipment is an important component of the larger fiber network, providing the final connection point from the main fiber-optic lines to the property. Once the equipment is connected and service is activated, you can connect devices to your personal network.
Depending on your fiber service provider, you may use a router to broadcast your WiFi, or, as is becoming more common, you might use a mesh WiFi system.
Connecting your devices to your new fiber network
After the technician completes the fiber internet installation to the ONT or SmartNID, it’s time to create a WiFi network and connect your devices.
If your new fiber service includes a mesh WiFi system, like CenturyLink’s Premium WiFi, your technician will likely help set this up for you.
If you are using a router, or a modem/router gateway connected to your ONT, you can find the wireless network name (SSID) and password (security key) on the label attached to the equipment. For increased security, it’s a good idea to create your own customized network name and password.
After your WiFi network is set up, the last step is to connect your devices. With the high speeds of fiber service, you’re free to connect your phones, laptops, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and all other internet-enabled devices in your modern home while maintaining seamless service.
Ready to get fiber internet service at home?
CenturyLink fiber internet is available in many areas nationwide and is continually expanding. To learn more and get started, visit our availability page and see if service is available near you.
