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Distance between ONT box and router?

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craggyducks
Newbie
Posts: 3
Registered: ‎02-10-2025

Distance between ONT box and router?

I am about to upgrade to Full Fibre 145 and I am being told on the ordering screen that the ONT box and the router need to be close together. However I think the ONT box is going to be installed on the opposite side of the room to where my Hub 2 router will be. I was thinking of buying a 5 metre ethernet cable to cover the distance between the two with each device plugged in at opposite sides of the room.

Can this be done without causing any issues?

5 REPLIES 5
MisterW
Superuser
Superuser
Posts: 18,483
Thanks: 7,858
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Registered: ‎30-07-2007

Re: Distance between ONT box and router?

Fix

@craggyducks 

Can this be done without causing any issues?

In a word, yes!. The maximum length of an ethernet cable is 100m. Just make sure that you get a cat5e or better (cat6 or 7) cable.  

Superusers are not staff, but they do have a direct line of communication into the business in order to raise issues, concerns and feedback from the community.

bmc
Seasoned Hero
Posts: 5,006
Thanks: 1,795
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Registered: ‎28-02-2017

Re: Distance between ONT box and router?

@craggyducks 

Unlike FTTC, routers do not need to be near the Full Fibre ONT as they connect via an ethernet cable.

 

I would hold off buying any new cables until such time as the ONT is on the wall and you can "see" clearly what is required for you. Note - the is a certain leeway as to where the fibre comes into your property and the location of the ONT. The latter does need a power source. With my install, the fibre came in at the same point as the copper wire but the fibre cable was then run round to the back of the front room. It was stapled to the skirting board.

 

You discuss it with the installer on the day.

 

Brian

craggyducks
Newbie
Posts: 3
Registered: ‎02-10-2025

Re: Distance between ONT box and router?

Thank you both very much, I feel reassured now and can press on with my order.

mwwagain
Aspiring Pro
Posts: 153
Thanks: 57
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Registered: ‎03-12-2024

Re: Distance between ONT box and router?


@craggyducks wrote:

I am about to upgrade to Full Fibre 145 and I am being told on the ordering screen that the ONT box and the router need to be close together.

 


 

This is only because they only supply a tiny length of dubious quality ethernet cable with the Hub, and also assume you'll use the same double outlet mains socket for both.

craggyducks
Newbie
Posts: 3
Registered: ‎02-10-2025

Re: Distance between ONT box and router?

Sorry, just seen this. I've bought a certified 5 metre Cat 6 cable ready. Thank you.