One connection linking three nearby homes
One connection linking three nearby homes
Each home features a fiber to ethernet converter (two in yours, one in the middle if your switch has built-in SFP/SFP+ ports). These devices connect 10/100/1000Base-T RJ45 to 1000Base-X SFP Mini Unmanaged Fiber Media Converter models. FS.com provides them with empty SFP slots—you’ll need to insert transceivers inside. Most commonly used are multimode LC types, such as the Cisco GLC-SX-MM 1000BASE-SX SFP module, designed for burial LC-LC multimode cables. You can buy the OM4 Industrial Fiber Patch Cable in LC/SC/ST/FC formats, rated for up to 67°C and IP67 protection. From an ISP perspective, these appear as regular users in your network; they’re not a commercial operation, just family connections providing internet access—making it a somewhat ambiguous situation, though you might claim it doesn’t violate service terms.
The system would transition to a converter, then switch to the other location, followed by a POE injector feeding the AP. For long-term flexibility, would a unit with two RJ45 ports require dual inputs to support two outputs? Since I have a 48-port switch, it appears simpler to add a switch at the receiving end instead of hardwiring, leaving room for another AP or direct device connection if needed.
Houses are just ten feet apart, but it might require more effort now. A solid connection would save time later on.
Due to the close proximity of homes, it's possible to purchase short sections of plastic or metal tubing and insert the fiber optic cable and fishing line through it. If the fiber fails, you can replace it using the nylon rope or old fiber, pulling a new cable through without digging. A 2-port media converter wouldn't be effective since the fiber would likely break completely. You'd probably need a longer cable—around 25 meters—to accommodate the actual distance between houses (3-5 meters) and the route through walls to reach network equipment or power sources for the media converter.
I was reviewing conduit choices for this specific purpose. It seems we could likely install the converters in the basement, where the fiber connection arrives. This would keep the copper runs intact and reduce the chance of damage from accidental impacts. I’ll need to verify the locations of nearby outlets before proceeding. I might decide to place the equipment in the basement as well. The existing coax cable passes through there, making it simple to access. Then I’d connect my Ethernet to the upper floors—first floor is straightforward using the coax as a pull cord, while the second floor presents challenges due to unreliable Wi-Fi. I also have an outdated whole-house vacuum system that isn’t functioning properly; signal wires seem frayed in the walls. I’m wondering if I could lay conduit through the space and install a keystone there.