How is Full Fibre installed?

When you order a Full Fibre package from your broadband provider, an Openreach engineer will visit to connect fibre optic cables directly to your property. This gives you the fastest and most reliable broadband available.

What happens before the Full Fibre installation?

Your broadband provider will confirm an installation date and tell you what to expect. In some cases, a survey may be carried out first if your property has unusual access requirements.

You will get reminders from your provider before the appointment, and you will need someone at home on the day to let the engineer in.

How the engineer installs Full Fibre

Openreach engineer climbing a telegraph pole to install Full Fibre broadband cables outside a residential property

Outside your property

The engineer will run a fibre optic cable from the nearest connection point. This could be an underground duct or an overhead pole.

Openreach engineer connecting Full Fibre broadband cable to a home through an external wall connection point.

Connecting to your home

The cable is brought into your property, usually through a small hole drilled in the wall.

Optical Network Terminal (ONT) installed inside a home to connect Full Fibre broadband service.

Fitting the equipment

An Optical Network Terminal (ONT) will be installed inside your home. This connects the fibre line to your broadband router.

Openreach engineer testing newly installed Full Fibre broadband equipment outside a customer property.

Testing your service

Once installed, the engineer will test your new line and make sure everything is working.

Our engineers always complete the work neatly, ensuring no damage and leaving your property safe and tidy.

For more information read this article: Full Fibre Installation – what to expect on the day.

How long does installation take?

Most installations take between one and four hours, but this depends on the property type and how the fibre is routed. If extra work is needed, such as clearing blocked ducts, the appointment may take longer.

What to expect on the day of Full Fibre installation

For a full step-by-step guide on what to expect on the day of installation, watch the video below or visit our Full Fibre installation page.

Frequently asked questions

Will the installation damage my property?

No. Engineers take care to avoid any damage and will leave your home safe and tidy once the work is complete.
Do I need to be at home during installation?

Yes, someone over 18 must be present to give access and agree where equipment will be installed.
What equipment will be installed?

An Optical Network Terminal (ONT) will be fitted inside your home. This connects directly to your provider’s router.