Fiber setups typically use an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) instead of a traditional cable modem. The ONT converts light from the fiber line into Ethernet you can plug into a router.

• ONT: Usually supplied and activated by your provider.
• Router: Choose a model with an Ethernet WAN port that matches your plan speed (1 Gbps or 2.5 Gbps+).
• Cabling: Use quality Ethernet (Cat5e or Cat6) from the ONT to the router.
• Wi‑Fi needs: Consider Wi‑Fi 6 or newer for busy homes and faster devices.

You can find routers, mesh systems, and networking accessories on Walmart.com. Checking your provider’s requirements before buying can help avoid compatibility hiccups.

Often, yes—many fiber providers allow you to use your own router, while the provider supplies and manages the ONT. Policies vary, so it helps to confirm details before you buy.

• Activation: ONTs are typically provider‑provisioned; swapping them may not be supported.
• Router support: Verify whether your service needs DHCP, PPPoE, or VLAN tagging and choose a router that supports those settings.
• Port speeds: Match the router’s WAN port (1G or 2.5G+) to your plan.
• Bundled services: Phone or TV features may require the provider’s gateway or specific configurations.

Keeping the original equipment on hand during setup can simplify activation. Results can vary by provider and plan.

A fiber optic modem is commonly called an Optical Network Terminal (ONT). It’s the box that converts light signals coming over fiber into Ethernet data your home router can use.

• Role: Acts as the bridge between the fiber line and your network.
• Placement: Usually installed on an inside wall near where the fiber enters your home.
• Compared to cable: Cable service uses a DOCSIS modem on coax; fiber uses an ONT on fiber.
• Gateways: Some providers combine the ONT and router into one unit; others separate them.

Most providers supply and activate the ONT. You can then pair it with a compatible router from Walmart.com to fit your home’s needs.

Routers that work well with fiber have a fast WAN port and features that align with your plan and home size. Instead of a cable modem, they connect to the ONT via Ethernet.

• WAN speed: Look for 1 Gbps or 2.5 Gbps+ WAN ports to match your plan.
• Wi‑Fi standard: Wi‑Fi 6 or newer can help with multi‑device homes.
• Compatibility: Support for DHCP, PPPoE, and VLAN tagging if your provider requires it.
• Coverage: Consider mesh systems for larger or multi‑story spaces.
• Security: WPA3 and automatic firmware updates are helpful.

Check your provider’s requirements and your home layout, then shop routers and mesh kits on Walmart.com to match your needs.

Setup usually means connecting your router to the ONT and applying any provider‑specific settings. The exact steps can vary, but this general approach can help:

1. Power off the ONT and your router.
2. Use a Cat5e or Cat6 cable from the ONT’s LAN port to the router’s WAN port.
3. Power on the ONT, then the router.
4. In the router app or web setup, choose the correct WAN type (DHCP or PPPoE) and add VLAN tagging if required.
5. Update router firmware and create strong Wi‑Fi passwords (WPA3 if available).
6. Place the router centrally; add mesh nodes if needed.
7. Test speeds with a wired device to verify baseline performance.

If speeds or connectivity seem off, checking provider settings and cabling can help.