Monday, September 25, 2023

How to connect a Mesh router to an Optical Network Terminal



By Calvin Croucher

Mesh routers are becoming increasingly popular among Colonial Heritage homeowners. Why? Because they offer a way to extend strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout a larger space or multiple floors without sacrificing speed or reliability. However, setting up a mesh router can sometimes be tricky, especially if you need to connect it to an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) that provides internet access through a fiber-optic network. Verizon FiOS has always used fiber and Cox is now rapidly expanding their own fiber throughout Colonial Heritage. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to connect a mesh router to an ONT and get your Wi-Fi network up and running in no time.

Step 1: Gather your equipment

Before you start connecting your mesh router to the ONT, you will need to gather the necessary equipment. This will typically include the mesh router itself, an Ethernet cable, and the power supplies for the mesh router and each mesh node. You may also need a device such as a laptop or smartphone to configure the mesh router's settings, depending on the specific model.

Step 2: Locate the ONT

The ONT is typically located on the utility side of your home, within the home smart panel or in your garage, and is usually installed by your internet service provider (ISP). The ONT is the device that receives the fiber-optic cable from the outside and converts it into a signal that can be used by your router and other devices in your home.

Step 3: Connect the mesh router to the ONT

To connect the mesh router to the ONT, you will need to use an Ethernet cable. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the WAN (Wide Area Network) port on the mesh router, and the other end directly to the LAN (Local Area Network) port on the ONT. Make sure the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both devices. Yes, you read this correctly, you do not need to rent a Gateway from Verizon or Cox if you have an ONT and plan to use a Mesh router!

Step 4: Power on the mesh router

After connecting the mesh router to the ONT, you can now plug in the power supply for the mesh router and turn it on. The mesh router should start up and begin broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal. If you have a smartphone or laptop handy, you can try connecting to the Wi-Fi network to confirm that it is working properly.

Step 5: Configure the mesh router settings

Once the mesh router is connected to the ONT and powered on, you should configure its settings to ensure that it is working optimally. This may include setting up the Wi-Fi network name and password, configuring parental controls, or adjusting other settings such as a recommended weekly automatic reboot schedule. Consult the user manual for your specific mesh router model for instructions on how to access and configure its settings either directly through the router's IP address or through the router manufacturers provide mobile app.

In conclusion, connecting a mesh router to an ONT is a relatively straightforward process that can greatly improve your Wi-Fi coverage and performance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to connect your mesh router to the ISPs ONT and get your Wi-Fi network up and running in no time. If you encounter any issues or have questions, don't hesitate to contact your ISP, the manufacturer of your mesh router or as always, The Croucher Group is happy to help.

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