Most internet service providers such as AT&T are moving from DSL to fiber optic cables to enhance their consumers’ experience. Fiber internet provides internet connection with the speed reaching up to one gigabyte per second, this is much faster than cable or DSL internet. But, fiber-introduction does call for some sort of equipment swaps, this could mean a change of modem.
Does AT&T Fiber Require a New Modem?
The short answer to this question is yes- one needs a new modem that is compatible with the fiber optic network technology being provided by AT&T internet service. The majority of customers have modems for their current cable or DSL internet services and these do not work in a Fiber optic network.
Another key component of this offer is that for the duration of this deal, AT&T will install a modem/router combo device for their fiber service. This equipment is designed to work on a fiber network and provide internet connectivity for all your devices either wirelessly or through wired connections.
That is why fiber needs new equipment – because the distinction means that the systems are entirely different.
Today, fiber optic internet is different from other types of internet such as cable or DSL internet in that the former utilizes light signals transmitted through glass fiber cables rather than radio frequency signals through copper cables. This change in technology will require the modem to be changed to one with a design meant for fiber.
Here’s an overview of why a new modem is required
- Fiber uses pulses of light rather than electricity: Fiber optic cables carry data in the form of light in the fiber glass strands through an optical signal. The old modem is for electrical signals over copper cables as opposed to light signals.
- Different network standards: For instance, fiber internet employs specific network protocols such as GPON, which cannot work with previous modem devices designed for networks like DOCSIS that are used by cable.
- No copper connection: In most of the modem models currently on the market, a user can connect through a copper phone line or an Ethernet connection. Fiber doesn’t even use copper from the provider to modem in its transmission of internet connectivity.
- Added functions: Fiber gateways are devices that incorporate the functionality of a modem, router as well as a WiFi access point. Old modems do not include router and wireless features in their circuit.
In other words, the telephony technique of fiber is different from other sorts of internet kinds. Analog to digital modulation is something that all modems do regardless, however fiber transport and networking protocols are new. To deal with this situation, AT&T must provide a modem designed to connect with a fiber optic line directly to your house.
What Brand of Fiber Modem Does AT&T Provide?
When you switch to AT&T Fiber, they will provide you with modem router combo, often a brand new combination gateway/ONT hardware. This is a single piece that comes with the fiber optical network termination, routing system, and WiFi broadcasting capabilities among others.
The model of internet service used by AT&T fibre is Arris NVG590 which offers up to 300 Mbps internet speed. For faster speed tiers such as their 1Gbps fiber service, they currently utilize the Nokia 5268ac XGS-PON gateway. Both OF units are white colored wide units with the required optics hardware and electronics.
These gateways are available only from the internet provider and are shipped ready to attach to the internet service’ s network. AT&T provides you with your account information during installation for all of them. They take responsibility for account credential authentication and usage monitoring without any need of being set up.
New AT&T Fiber Modem: What It Offers
While changing modems can be disruptive, the gateway Internet service Provider has major perks:While changing modems can be disruptive, the gateway AT&T provides has major perks:
All-in-one unit: It is a blend of modem, router, 4 Ethernet ports switch and a WiFi access point. Replaces many equipments.
This is a very important aspect of the cost of owning an equipment because more often than not it indicates that the owner has to replace several equipments with the new one that he or she is ordering.
Easy setup: Ready for setup and connects to AT&T fiber internet without having you build the setup yourself. AT&T is responsible for its provisioning for your account.
Implicit compatibility: No doubt that a retail modem for sale will fit with fiber service. The model at the center of the AT&T’s provision is assured to be compatible. Saves having to handle numerous inconveniences at a later date.
Advanced hardware: State of the art modem which is optimized to operate in fiber optic network with multi-gigabit capabilities. Not a constraint on performance as speed improves.
Future proofing: As fiber internet speeds and performance increases, this firmware update can be used to enhance capabilities without replacing hardware again anytime in the near future, in case of AT&T.
Managed by provider: AT&T can easily reconnect their customers and even install new signals, monitor, and control the equipment used for a more reliable connection. Less time lost waiting for a truck roll if there are problems with the application.
Therefore and in the conclusion, yes, it does necessitate new modem equipment if one is to subscribe to AT&T fiber because it employs a completely new form of networking technology. However, they offer a far more advanced gateway device designed specifically for their fiber network and come with some of the additional features built-in. This makes for a smooth upgrade path to faster fiber optic internet, which is becoming increasing popular among consumers. Although there is a need for such adjustment for most, they consider this a small bar in comparison to the significant speed gain one gets when using AT&T to switch to fiber internet.
Call (844) 905-5001 to get a new AT&T connection now!
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