How to Install Fiber Optic Internet

By eHow Computers Editor

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Fiber optics is the new kid on the block as it joins cable, DSL, satellite and dialup in the battle for Internet access superiority. Although it's not available in all areas, its higher speeds and reliability make it a major contender. But installing it can be an all-day affair. Here are a few tips.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Step1

Check for availability in your area. Fiber optic service is usually offered by telephone companies such as Verizon and AT&T. If service is available, there should be a fiber optic distribution box mounted on a telephone pole somewhere in your neighborhood. There should also be another box housing cable from the distribution box on a pole within a few hundred feet of your home.

Step2

String fiber optic cable from the housing to your home, and test it to make sure you have a signal.

Step3

Install an Optical Network Terminal on the side of your house or inside, possibly in a garage or basement.

Step4

Replace all residential phone lines with connections through the network terminal. Some older phones won't work with this system, so be sure to check for compatibility.

Step5

Install an RJ-45 wall jack, power adapter and backup battery near your computer. Connect the wall jack to your computer or router using 100BaseT Ethernet cable.

Step6

Connect the fiber optic cable to the network box, and test for connectivity with your phone line. You should be able to dial out and connect to the Internet using a test site set up by your provider. All phone lines should be switched over to fiber optic service at this point in order to connect to the Internet.