Fiber-based internet connections are becoming more popular every day and might overtake coaxial-based connections in the coming decade. However, if you have been using a coaxial connection all this time, you might encounter some terms unique to fiber-based infrastructure. One such term is ONT, which stands for Optical Network Terminal. But what is an ONT? How does an ONT work?
In this guide, I will explain all these points, starting with what an ONT is.
An ONT: A Quick Overview
An Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is a device that converts fiber-optic signals to Ethernet signals that your Wi-Fi router or modem can handle. It is an important part of fiber-optic-based internet and may work with other devices like an Optical Network Unit (ONU) and an Optical Line Terminal (OLT).
What is ONT
An ONT, which stands for Optical Network Terminal, is a device that connects the fiber optic infrastructure to your home. This is a must-have device when you want to access a high-speed internet connection from the comfort of your home or small office.
In most cases, you might come across another term used to refer to the ONT, which is “fiber box.” This is because the equipment is responsible for taking in the fiber cable from your ISP and providing an Ethernet cable that you can connect to your modem or Wi-Fi router.
Components of an ONT
A typical Optical Network Terminal will have the following components.
- Optical Port: This port will receive optical fiber signals from the ISP infrastructure. Your ISP may use a variety of cables to establish this connection.
- Ethernet Port: These ports are used to share the internet connection with your router or modem. It carries the digital signals that the ONT has created/converted from the fiber-optic cable signals.
- Voice Ports (Telephone Ports): These ports are optional. You can find Voice Ports on your ONT only if you have bundled a telephone service along with an internet connection.
- Power Supply: Your device will also have a power supply port, which uses a barrel jack connector in most cases.
In addition to these, the ONT will have multiple indicator lights. Each indicates the status of the optical fiber signal, power supply, LAN status, and voice status.
How Does ONT Works
At the basic level, the working system of an ONT is simple. As mentioned before, an ONT is an integral part of the fiber optic network. It receives the fiber optic signals provided by your internet service provider.
A number of authentication processes occur in between, but the device essentially converts these fiber optic signals into digital signals that your devices, or at least a router, can understand. This is why you can often connect an Ethernet cable directly from the ONT to one of your laptops or desktops.
This process happens almost instantly, allowing you to enjoy excellent speeds on an ONT network.
What Is An ONT Cable
An ONT cable may refer to two things, depending on the context.
- If you are referring to the cable that connects the ONT to your modem or Wi-Fi router, it is simply an Ethernet cable.
- On the other hand, if you are referring to the cable that plugs into the optical port of the ONT, it could be a proprietary cable that your ISP uses.
However, in most cases, when you mention an ONT cable, it means a fiber optic cable that can transfer information at the highest speeds possible.
Benefits of Using an ONT
Here is a quick rundown of the benefits of using an ONT instead of a conventional coaxial or DSL modem.
Optimal Internet Speed
The ONT is designed to provide the best possible internet speed in today’s scenarios. It was introduced as part of FTTH (Fiber to the Home) and FTTP (Fiber to the Premises). Therefore, you can expect gigabit-level speeds from a connection powered by an ONT.
Enhanced Reliability
ONTs offer enhanced reliability. Because there are few translators in between, ONT systems, and fiber optic networks in particular, are comparatively more reliable. They can also maintain performance even in the presence of environmental hazards.
Improved Latency
You get better speed and bandwidth along with lower latency with a fiber-based network compared to coaxial or DSL networks. If you want to engage in activities like online gaming or live streaming, it is crucial to have an ONT instead of a conventional modem.
These ONTs, and the fiber-based internet connections in general, have become more cost-effective.
Difference between an OLT and an ONT
You may also have some queries regarding the difference between an OLT (Optical Line Terminal) and an ONT (Optical Network Terminal.)
Optical Line Terminal (OLT)
An Optical Line Terminal (OLT) is a device that your ISP uses at one of its endpoints. It is responsible for splitting the signals and ensuring that each ONT receives its designated data.
Optical Network Terminal (ONT)
An ONT is a device you place at your home. It assists in converting fiber optic signals into Ethernet signals.
Optical Network Unit (ONU)
In some cases, an Optical Network Unit (ONU) can combine the functions of both the OLT and ONT. This device works as a PON endpoint and also converts fiber optic signals and Ethernet-based signals.
Difference Between ONT & ONU
It is important not to confuse an Optical Network Unit (ONU) with an Optical Network Terminal (ONT).
The ONU is a part of the ISP infrastructure and is typically placed at a location owned by your internet service provider.
The ONU is responsible for converting electric data into fiber optic data and ensuring it reaches all the different ONTs in your locality.
Types of ONTs
These are the common types of ONTs you will have in the US.
Indoor ONTs
Indoor ONTs are placed inside your home, with the fiber cable routed through your home to reach the ONT.
Outdoor ONTs
Outdoor ONTs are kept outside your home and may require additional wiring to set up. ISPs typically use these to maintain maximum control over the ONT.
Integrated ONTs and Gateways
Integrated ONTs and gateways combine the functions of an ONT and a wireless gateway into a single device. In this case, you connect the optical fiber cable directly to the gateway, which then provides seamless internet and Wi-Fi connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an Optical Network Terminal needs power and this is provided through a wall socket. However, because they simply convert fiber-optic signals to electric signals, the power consumption by ONTs is super-low.
You may get an ONT yourself, but it won’t help you. ONTs are designed to work in sync with other fiber-optics infrastructure such as OLT. These are available only when you are subscribed to an ISP.
Yes, you need an ONT even if you have a router. Your router will only convert Ethernet signals into a WiFi network, whereas the ONT is essential for internet access in the first place.
The ONT uses a high-speed Ethernet cable to connect to the modem/router. However, the ONT cable used for the Optical Port is different.
Conclusion
I believe I have cleared all your queries regarding an Optical Network Terminal and how it differs from an Optical Line Terminal and Optical Network Unit.
Most of the time, you don’t have to worry about these differences because your ISP will set everything up for you.
