Fibre router help
Fibre router help
Hi everyone, I've recently had fiber installed (1000mbps both ways) and we're renting a router from the ISP. They seem different from my previous provider—they blocked me from accessing the router admin panel. Even the Wi-Fi channel names were changed to promote their brand, which feels a bit inappropriate. I was hoping to rename it to something more personal, but I need the router to support SC/APC ports or a way to convert the fiber cable to standard Ethernet so I can use any router. Since SC/APC models are less common, I'm worried about availability. They told me I couldn't buy them and mentioned it's only for my apartment. Anyone interested, could you share some advice? Thanks a lot! Andy
If they're very strict, it's likely they won't allow you to use your own router. In the UK, most people are encouraged to use their own routers, except for fibre connections where you must connect to their ONT. An ONT needs to be linked to the network by the ISP and they prefer not to let you manage it because mistakes could disrupt the whole network. They can only fit one port ONT in bridge mode at a time, so you'd need to connect your own ethernet router there. You might try contacting your ISP to see if they can switch the router to bridge mode, but it's probably not possible given their strict policies.
Hey Alex, They’re fine with me using my own router. The ISP is still a new company, so they might just be being too cautious about their equipment. This could work well—something like this from Ubiquiti could be the perfect converter. I can even use any standard router then?
Could you capture a photo of the ISP's gear? Using SC connectors for this setup is uncommon—typically reserved for ODFs. Your end should have LC connections; if not, you can likely source an SC to LC adapter. Once you have an LC link, any router or switch with an SFP port should work, provided it isn't restricted.
I believe Ubiquti has a router with an SFP port, which could let you connect the fiber directly. HOWEVER, it’s important to confirm the ISP is on board since you’ll probably need their assistance for setup. In the US, most ISPs aren’t flexible—like AT&T Fiber, which forces you to use their gateway and doesn’t support bridge mode. Running it in pass-through mode isn’t ideal. A major issue with fiber internet is that few devices can replace an ISP’s equipment. This is why I prefer Docsis cable internet, as the FCC mandates cable companies let customers use their own gear.
Hey LAwLz, here's how it looks underneath. I should add I'm in Poland so the standards are a little different here. But yeah they really don't mind me using my own router they just don't want me (anyone renting their gear) to mess with the settings. I also should add I know nothing about networking so please talk simple for me Finding a router with this same port is hard so that's why I was hoping for some solution to act as a in-between so i can use any router
I'm surprised you didn't notice this before. It turns out it's a GPON cable straight into the router. I had to verify because I've never seen that configuration before—it's not common in Sweden. Typically we use RJ45 ports or an ODF. The good news is there are GPON SFPs available. Unless you're missing some details, you should be able to connect any router with an SFP port and a GPON ONT SFP. Alternatively, using the UF-LOCO should also work. I found an Ubiquiti SFP priced around 212 złoty that should fit. Just make sure you have an SFP-compatible device like the EdgeRouter X. It might be easier to use it in bridged mode and then connect your preferred router.
It's really new to me too—I come from Scotland where the setup was similar with RJ45 connections, so seeing the fiber cables and the incredible speeds was impressive. For my basic apartment setup with just myself and my kids' tablets, I think using an UF-Loco and attaching a standard router would work well. It's not that hard to find a good router, which is why my ISP didn't offer them. Still, 1 Gbps down and up for 100 zlars (220 krona) each month is a great price. Thanks for taking the time to reply everyone.
There’s a PC setup that could suit you. Ubiquti suggests a router with an SFP port might be suitable for WAN use. The problem could lie in authentication on the ISP network. I’ve heard some ISPs rely on PPPoE for DSL connections, and possibly authenticate using MAC addresses. If your ISP is open to collaboration, give it a try.