Full fibre usually offers unmatched internet speeds thanks to its (Fibre to the Premises) set up. This means that full fibre isn’t routed to an external centralised cabinet but is wired directly into your property for an uninterrupted connection. But what does this set up look like in practice? How is full fibre installed?
We’re here to answer some of the most common full fibre installation questions. You may be asking if your drive will be dug up for full fibre installation, how the fibre is installed at the premises, what’s involved in the installation process, or how the fibre gets into your home.
If you’re looking to get a full fibre connection in your home, then this guide should help you to understand how the installation work will be carried out. Let’s dive in!
Does any external work need to be carried out before installation?
Your chosen provider may need to conduct some external work at your property before the big installation day. Don’t worry, though, you should get a warning well in advance if any work is needed outside, and your provider should do their best to keep it minimal.
Here’s a detailed guide on how LilaConnect lays cables under different types of driveways:
- Grass/Lawn: Our engineers can cut a single slice in the lawn to bury the cable. They make sure to re-bury the cable and repair the lawn afterwards.
- Blocked Paving: LilaConnect engineers need to lift the blocks to lay the cable and then reposition them afterwards.
- Tarmac: LilaConnect can provide a custom solution to install the cable under the tarmac, but the engineer will need to get permission from the surface owner first.
- Flagged Drive: The engineers will need to lift the slabs to lay the cable and then reposition them afterwards, making sure they are flush with the rest of the driveway.
- Pressed Concrete, Resin Driveways, Indian Stone, or other specialist surfaces: LilaConnect is unable to install cables under these types of driveways.
What do I need to do before installation?
First things first, make sure to get the okay from your landlord if you are renting your property. Once that’s all sorted, you can confirm your full fibre installation with your provider.
Before your installation day, you should think about where you want your full fibre cable to be connected. As the connection can only be established on the ground floor from the front of your house, you should think carefully about where exactly the connection would be best suited in your home. Below, we’ve compiled some suggestions to assist you in selecting the ideal location for your cable. Continue reading for further guidance.
Our suggestions for the entry location of your full fibre cable
- Central location:
A central spot where you plan to set up the Service Demarcation Device equipment (SDD) or router – this will allow for a strong signal. SDDs and routers are very similar in that they both play a crucial role in managing your network connection. Whether you have an SDD, or a router will depend on the provider you choose, but you will need it installed on the ground floor of your property.
- Utility room or wiring cupboard:
A centrally located room or a cupboard provides a secure and organised space that is also out of sight. This is perfect if you want to keep your home looking smart or minimal without compromising on connectivity.
- Near electrical outlets:
Try to have the entry point near electrical outlets. Two plug sockets need to be available, whether that’s inside or on the front wall of your property. This ensures that power is available for any networking equipment that may be installed alongside the fibre connection.
- Accessible and unobstructed:
Ensure that the entry point is easily accessible for maintenance or future upgrades. It should also be free from obstructions to allow for a smooth installation and troubleshooting if needed.
- Protection from environmental factors:
If possible, select a location that provides some level of protection from environmental factors like moisture, extreme temperatures, and physical damage.
- Consult with professionals:
If you’re uncertain about the best entry point, consult with your full fibre engineer. They can offer specific recommendations based on your home’s layout and needs.
You’ll also need to keep an eye on your postal deliveries, as your SDD or router (depending on your provider) should arrive before the installation day.
Finally, once your installation day is confirmed, it’s a good idea to clear your calendar and make sure you’re home for the time your engineers need to complete the job – usually 3-6 hours. You should be able to carry on as usual while the engineers are at your home, but they will need you (or someone else over 18) present on the property to see your installation through . Clients are required to inform LilaConnect of any appointment cancellations at least 48 hours in advance. Failure to do so may result in incurring a cancellation charge.
What happens on the installation day?
- With LilaConnect, you receive a text message 15-30 minutes before the engineer arrives which allows customers to get ready for the installation process.
- Your engineers will start by stretching out the fibre cable from the connection point at your property’s boundary. If you’re living the high life a bit further from the hustle and bustle of the street, ‘narrow trenching’ is a technique that your engineers can use to ensure your FTTP connection without causing major disruption.
- You’ll need to ensure your driveway is clear for the team to access their property. Items like skips or immovable caravans can hinder installation. Obstructions may prevent the completion of the installation.
- Next, your engineers will install a brand-new duct and a fibre cable, along with your SDD or router. The advantage of a SDD is that it wears multiple hats – it combines demarcation and routing, handling both the entry point of your connection and making sure your data reaches its intended destination with precision.
- Then your engineer will set up the SDD or router entry point, securing it on both your interior wall and facing the street externally, typically at ground floor level for homes.
And voila! Once your full fibre engineer has finished these steps, they should now be ready to give your connection a test run to make sure your speed is up to scratch.*
For comprehensive information, everything you need to know is conveniently available in the Full Fibre Installation brochure, accessible for download in PDF format.
*The installation process may vary depending on the provider. These steps are aligned with LilaConnect’s full fibre service.
Do I need to pay for an installation?
At LilaConnect, standard installations are typically at a minimal cost. However, in certain cases where bespoke solutions are needed for your property, we’ll promptly notify you and provide a quote for any extra expenses incurred. If you find that the non-standard installation doesn’t align with your preferences, rest assured that you can cancel your full fibre order on our website with no charges.
For more information on full fibre installation and service costs from LilaConnect, you can visit our FAQ.
Still unsure about why Fibre Optic is the future? Well then, learn a little more about why fibre optic internet is better.
