Learn – Consumer – Fiber – What is Fiber?

A look at the basics of fiber optic networking, including an explanation of PON, EPON, GPON and understanding OLT, ONT/ONU and more. 

A passive optical network (PON) is a fiber-optic network that allows an Internet service provider (ISP) and consumer to communicate. This is how you get broadband access with fiber-optic services (FiOS). PON is one protocol. Learn more.

GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) is a next-generation PON standard that allows more fiberoptic-coverage and flexibility. Learn more.

Learn what an ONT is, how it works with fiber Internet, where it’s installed, and how it differs from a cable modem.

A fiber optic router is a small box that translates data from your fiber modem (or ONT) to communicate a Wi-Fi signal to the devices on your local network. Learn more.