Since fiber cables can't connect directly to a router, an ONT converts optic signals that can be delivered to routers through an Ethernet cable. If you have fiber optic internet service, the ONT is typically installed by your provider and is not a device that is readily available. Fiber internet transmits data using light signals through fiber-optic cables, which differs from traditional DSL or cable internet. Instead, fiber relies on an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) to decode the signal from the fiber lines into something usable by your devices. In this way, an ONT serves the same basic function as a cable. Almost all types of routers available are compatible with these coaxial cables so it is unnecessary to switch to a device that works with fiber, however, it is recommended to upgrade to one that offers higher speeds. Any standard router, including the primary unit of a mesh Wi-Fi system, will work at its full potential with any standard Internet broadband terminal.
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