Full Fibre Installation:
How is Full Fibre Broadband installed in the UK?
Full fibre installation brings fibre cables directly into your home. These cables carry faster and more stable internet signals than older copper lines. The installation process is handled by trained engineers, usually from Openreach or another network provider. The steps are simple, and most homes are ready within a few hours. This guide explains every stage in a clear way, so you know what to expect inside and outside your property.
20+ years in UK telecom | Last updated: November 2025
What Full Fibre Installation Means in the UK?
Full fibre installation brings a fibre-optic cable from the street directly into your home. This cable connects to a small box called an ONT, which your router plugs into to give you full fibre broadband.
Full fibre broadband uses fibre-optic lines for the entire journey from the exchange to your home. This is different from older services that used copper lines for the last part of the route. Installation is carried out by an engineer, usually from Openreach, because they manage most fibre networks in the UK. The engineer checks the route, runs the new cable, installs small boxes inside and outside, and tests the connection. The steps stay simple for you, and the engineer handles the technical work.
This type of setup is also known as FTTP (Fibre to the Premises). It gives faster speeds, fewer dropouts, and better performance during peak times. It also works well with modern phone systems and digital services that use broadband instead of old landlines.
Why does the UK need full fibre installation?
Full fibre gives faster internet and prepares homes for the future when copper lines will no longer be used.
Is full fibre the same as FTTP?
Yes, FTTP and full fibre mean the same thing. Both describe fibre cables running directly to your home.
Is full fibre better than FTTC?
Yes, FTTC still uses copper for the last part of the route, which slows speeds and affects stability.
Does full fibre installation change my current phone line?
Yes. Full fibre broadband does not use copper phone lines, so calls may move to digital phone services.
Thinking about full fibre for your business?
You can request a quick quote from our team. We guide you through the setup, check what your location supports, and help you understand the best broadband type for your building.
How is Full Fibre installed? Step by Step
Full fibre is installed by bringing a new fibre cable from the street to your home, attaching a small box outside, running the cable indoors, and connecting it to an ONT that your router plugs into.
The Steps for Full Fibre Installation
- The engineer checks the best cable route.
- Fibre is brought from a pole or an underground duct.
- A small external box is fixed on your wall.
- A neat hole is drilled to bring the cable inside.
- The ONT is placed near a power socket.
- The fibre is connected to the ONT.
- Your router is plugged into the ONT.
- The engineer tests speed and signal levels.
- The engineer answers questions and confirms completion.
Full fibre installation replaces the older copper section with a new fibre-optic cable. The engineer checks how the cable will reach your home. The route may be overhead from a pole or underground through a duct. Once confirmed, a small external box is added to protect the entry point. The fibre cable is then brought inside your home using a small drilled hole.
Inside, the engineer places the ONT on the wall. It needs power because it converts light signals into broadband. Your router connects to the ONT using a short cable. After testing speed and signal levels, the engineer confirms that your full fibre service is ready. The steps remain simple, and you do not need to handle any technical setup.
Does the engineer choose the best route for the cable?
Yes. They select the safest and cleanest path to your home.
Will drilling leave a large hole?
No. It is a very small hole and sealed neatly.
Can I move my router later?
Yes, as long as you keep the ONT connected safely.
Does this setup replace the old copper line?
Yes. Full fibre does not use copper cables.
External Work Before the Appointment
Engineers may carry out outdoor checks before your appointment to plan the fibre route and confirm access points.
Before installation day, an engineer may visit the outside of your property to check poles, underground ducts, or chambers. This quick check helps them confirm how the fibre cable will reach your home. They do not need to enter your home for this step. They look at the path from the street to your wall and note any obstacles. This preparation helps avoid delays on installation day.
Do I need to be home for this outdoor check?
No. Engineers only check outside your property.
Why is this check needed?
It helps the engineer plan the easiest and safest route for the cable.
What if bad weather stops the check?
It may move to another day if conditions are unsafe.
Fibre Cable Route Assessment
The engineer checks the best path for the fibre cable to reach your home.
Route assessment is one of the first tasks. The engineer looks at overhead poles, boundary walls, ducts, and nearby chambers. They choose the shortest, safest path for the cable to travel. This step ensures that the installation inside your home is smooth. If the first path is blocked, the engineer plans an alternative route.
What if the duct is blocked?
The engineer may try to clear it or choose a different route.
Can I suggest a different cable path?
You can suggest, but the engineer chooses based on safety and access.
Installing Overhead or
Underground Routes
The fibre cable reaches your home either from an overhead pole or an underground duct.
In many UK streets, fibre arrives from a pole. The engineer connects the fibre cable to that pole and brings it across to your home in a safe line. If your area uses underground ducts, the cable is pulled through a chamber below the ground. Both methods bring the cable to the outside wall of your home. The method used depends on how your current broadband enters your building.
Can overhead fibre be changed to underground fibre?
Not unless your property already has duct access.
Does overhead fibre stay strong in bad weather?
Yes. It is fixed securely to handle normal conditions.
Installing the External Junction Box
The engineer attaches a small external box to your wall to protect the fibre entry point.
This outdoor box is placed where the cable enters your home. The box protects the cable and helps keep the installation tidy. It is normally placed near a suitable spot for the ONT inside. The engineer keeps the box small and flat on the wall so it does not stand out.
Can this box be placed behind objects?
It should remain clear for safe access.
How large is the box?
It is usually smaller than your hand.
Running Fibre Into Your Home
A small hole is drilled so the fibre cable can pass into your home.
The drilled hole is tiny and sealed after the cable passes through. The engineer places the cable neatly along the wall and threads it into the ONT area. This part of the job is quick, and the engineer keeps dust and debris to a minimum. You can choose the indoor location as long as it has a power socket nearby.
Will drilling damage my wall?
No. The hole is very small and sealed well.
Can I choose a different entry point?
Yes, if it is safe and reachable.
Setting Up the ONT
The ONT is a small indoor box that connects the fibre cable to your router.
The ONT sits on the inside wall near where the cable enters your home. It converts the fibre signal into broadband. The engineer checks that the ONT shows the correct lights and confirms the signal is stable. The unit stays powered at all times because it drives your internet connection.
Does the ONT make noise?
No. It stays silent.
What power does the ONT need?
It plugs into a standard socket.
Not sure if Openreach full fibre is available at your address?
How Long Full Fibre Installation Take?
Most full fibre installations take between one to three hours, depending on the cable route, property layout, and any outdoor access checks.
The Time Steps for Full Fibre Installation
- ⏱️ Route check: 10–20 minutes
- ⏱️ Bringing fibre from pole or duct: 20–40 minutes
- ⏱️ Fixing the external box: 10–15 minutes
- ⏱️ Drilling and feeding the cable indoors: 10–20 minutes
- ⏱️ Fitting and powering the ONT: 10–15 minutes
- ⏱️ Connecting and testing your router: 10–20 minutes
- ⏱️ Final checks and short explanation: 5–10 minutes
Full fibre installation time varies based on how the cable reaches your home. Routes from overhead poles finish quicker than routes through underground ducts. If the duct is blocked, the visit may take longer while the engineer clears the path. Placing the external box, drilling a small hole, and installing the ONT are straightforward tasks. Indoors, most homes only need a short amount of work once the cable is inside. Final checks include speed testing, signal monitoring, and confirming stable light levels on the ONT. The engineer keeps the process simple and explains the result before leaving.
Can the installation finish sooner than one hour?
Yes. Simple routes with easy access often take less than one hour.
What causes longer installation times?
Blocked ducts, long cable routes, or difficult wall access may extend the job.
Will the engineer stay longer if something needs fixing?
They stay until the connection is tested and working safely.
Do larger homes take longer?
Only the entry route affects timing. Indoor size rarely changes the duration.
What Engineers Do on Installation Day?
Engineers bring the fibre cable to your property, install the outdoor and indoor equipment, test the connection, and make sure the service works before leaving.
The Steps Engineers Follow on Installation Day
- Arrive and introduce themselves.
- Check the agreed route for the fibre cable.
- Bring the cable from the pole or underground duct.
- Fix the small external junction box on your wall.
- Drill a small hole and pass the fibre indoors.
- Fit and power the ONT.
- Connect your router to the ONT.
- Test speed, signal levels, and ONT light status.
- Explain the setup and answer any questions.
On installation day, the engineer starts by checking the agreed cable path. They work outside first, either connecting to an overhead pole or pulling fibre through a duct. After that, they attach a small protective box to your wall. When the outdoor work is complete, they bring the fibre inside through a small drilled hole. Indoors, the ONT is installed near a power socket, and your router is plugged into it. The engineer checks all lights on the ONT and confirms that your router receives a strong signal. Once everything passes testing, they tidy up and show you how the setup works.
Do engineers need to enter every room?
No. Work is done near the entry point and ONT location only.
Can I ask the engineer to place the ONT in another spot?
Yes, if the location has a safe route and a nearby plug socket.
Does the engineer set up Wi-Fi on my devices?
They confirm the router works, but setting up personal devices is optional.
Will the engineer test the internet before leaving?
Yes. They test speed and signal levels before completing the visit.
Preparing Your Home for Full Fibre Installation
You can prepare for full fibre installation by clearing the area where the engineer will work, choosing a spot with a power socket for the ONT, and making sure someone is home during the visit.
The Steps to Prepare Your Home for Installation
- Choose where you want the ONT placed.
- Clear small items or furniture near that wall.
- Keep a plug socket free for the ONT.
- Unlock gates or side access where needed.
- Keep pets in another room for safety.
- Make sure someone over 18 is at home.
- Show the engineer your preferred entry point.
- Have your router ready for testing.
Preparing your home helps the engineer finish the job faster. The ONT needs to sit close to a plug socket, so picking a spot in advance is helpful. Clearing that area makes it easier for the engineer to place the box and route the cable. Outdoor access is also important, especially if the fibre comes from a pole or underground duct near the side of your home. Keeping pets away stops them from getting close to tools or cables. Having your router available allows the engineer to complete tests without delay.
Do I need to move large furniture?
Only if it blocks the wall where you want the ONT installed.
Can the engineer help choose the ONT spot?
Yes. They can advise the best place based on cable routing and power.
Do I need to prepare anything outside?
Just ensure clear access to the boundary area.
Can the ONT go upstairs?
Yes, if the route is practical and a plug socket is nearby.
Need help understanding the rules for rented homes or shared buildings?
Openreach Full Fibre Installation Explained
Openreach installs full fibre by bringing a fibre cable from their network to your property, fitting an external box, running the cable indoors, installing an ONT, and testing your new connection before completing the job.
The Steps for an Openreach Full Fibre Installation
- The engineer checks the route from the Openreach network.
- Fibre is brought from a pole or an underground chamber.
- A small external Openreach box is fixed on your wall.
- A small drilled hole brings the fibre indoors.
- The ONT is fitted and powered.
- The router is connected to the ONT.
- Light levels and speed checks are carried out.
- The engineer explains the result and confirms the installation.
Openreach supplies most full fibre networks across the UK, so many homes receive installation from an Openreach engineer. Their process stays simple and follows strict safety steps. They start by checking how the fibre will reach your property. The route might use an overhead pole or an underground duct managed by Openreach. A small external box is fitted to protect the fibre entry point. Indoors, an ONT is mounted near a plug socket and linked to the new fibre cable. The engineer then connects your router and checks the ONT lights to confirm the fibre signal is stable. Final tests measure speed and confirm that your home is ready to use full fibre broadband.
Do I need to contact Openreach directly for installation updates?
No. Your broadband provider communicates with Openreach on your behalf.
Does Openreach replace copper during installation?
Yes. Full fibre removes the copper link to your home.
Will the engineer tidy cables after installation?
Yes. Openreach engineers secure cables neatly before completing the visit.
Does Openreach install the router?
They set up the ONT and help connect the router, but the router itself comes from your broadband provider.
Full Fibre Installation for Flats and Rented Homes
Full fibre installation in flats and rented homes works the same as other properties, but engineers may need permission for drilling, shared hallway access, or route changes.
The Steps for Full Fibre Installation in Flats or Rented Homes
- Check with the landlord or building owner for drilling approval.
- Confirm access to shared hallways or entry points.
- The engineer assesses the route from the street to the building.
- Fibre is pulled through shared ducts or fixed along safe routes.
- A small external or internal box is fitted, depending on the layout.
- The ONT is installed inside your flat near a power socket.
- The router is connected and tested.
- Engineer confirms that the setup meets building rules.
Flats and rented homes may have extra steps because of shared areas or building policies. If drilling is needed, the engineer usually asks for landlord approval unless the provider already holds building permission. Fibre often runs through hallways, riser cupboards, or shared ducts. In some newer buildings, fibre may already be present, making the job quicker. The ONT still goes inside the flat on a wall close to a plug socket. Once connected, the engineer performs tests to make sure the fibre signal reaches your unit correctly.
Do I always need landlord permission?
Yes, if drilling or new wiring is required.
Can full fibre run through shared areas?
Yes. Engineers handle cabling safely through hallways and riser spaces.
Does full fibre work in older flats?
Yes. The route may take longer, but engineers can still install fibre.
Can I book installation before moving in?
You can book, but someone must be present during the visit.
Problems That Can Delay Full Fibre Installation
Full fibre installation can be delayed by blocked ducts, restricted access, bad weather, missing permission from landlords, or unexpected obstacles along the cable route.
Where Delays Usually Appear
- 🚫 Blocked underground ducts that need clearing.
- 🚫 Overhead routes blocked by trees or unsafe poles.
- 🚫 No access to boundary areas, gates, or side paths.
- 🚫 Landlord or building owner permission not confirmed.
- 🚫 Indoor location blocked by heavy furniture.
- 🚫 Bad weather is stopping outdoor work.
- 🚫 Incorrect or outdated address records.
- 🚫 The engineer is unable to reach the chosen route safely.
What happens if my duct is blocked?
The engineer may clear it. If not possible, a new visit may be booked.
Can weather delay the installation?
Yes. Safety rules stop outdoor work during strong winds or storms.
What if the engineer cannot access my boundary?
Clear access is needed. Removing locks or obstructions helps avoid delays.
Will delays cost extra?
No. Standard installation delays do not add charges.
Full Fibre Installation vs Other Broadband Types
Full fibre installation brings fibre cables all the way into your home, while older broadband types use copper for part of the route, which reduces speed and stability.
Full fibre installation differs from older broadband types because it replaces copper completely. Services like FTTC still rely on copper from the street cabinet to your home, which slows the signal as it travels. ADSL relies entirely on copper, making it the slowest option. Full fibre uses fibre for the full distance, so the signal stays strong at all times.
Another major difference is the equipment used. Full fibre requires an ONT, which handles fibre-optic signals. Older broadband uses your existing phone socket. Full fibre also needs a clean cable route to your home, while FTTC only requires activation at the cabinet. Although full fibre installation takes slightly longer, the result is faster speeds and better reliability.
Why is full fibre faster than FTTC?
FTTC uses copper from the cabinet to your home, which slows the signal.
Does full fibre need a phone line?
No. It works without copper phone lines.
Is full fibre more reliable than ADSL?
Yes. ADSL relies on copper, which weakens the signal.
Do all broadband types need an ONT?
No. Only full fibre uses an ONT.
Want clear, simple guidance for your full fibre setup?
Why UK Businesses Choose The VoIP Shop for Broadband Support?
The VoIP Shop helps UK businesses understand broadband choices by providing simple guidance, clear explanations, and helpful support. Our team answers questions about full fibre, FTTP, SoGEA, and broadband setups used by homes and small offices. With over ten years of UK experience, we explain connection steps in a way that suits non-technical readers. Our guides help you stay prepared for future broadband changes and understand how your digital services work.
Need help choosing between full fibre, FTTP, or SoGEA?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to prepare documents for my full fibre installation?
No documents are needed. The engineer only needs access inside and outside your home.
Q2: Can the installation take place if I have a security alarm or CCTV near the entry point?
Yes. The engineer works around your alarm or CCTV without affecting them.
Q3: Will full fibre installation affect my current broadband during the process?
Your old connection may stop working once the engineer switches your line to full fibre.
Q4: Can I choose a different installation day after booking?
Yes. You can reschedule through your broadband provider.
Q5: Do I need a new router for full fibre?
Most full fibre setups work best with newer routers. Older ones may limit speed.
Q6: Will the installation damage my walls or paint?
No. The hole is small, neat, and sealed once the cable is inside.
Q7: Can full fibre be installed if my home has thick walls?
Yes. Engineers adjust the cable route to reach a safe drilling point.
Q8: Is the ONT safe to leave on all the time?
Yes. The ONT is designed to stay powered without overheating.
Q9: Will I lose service if the ONT is unplugged?
Yes. Unplugging it stops your internet until it is powered again.
Q10: Can the ONT be moved after installation?
It can be moved, but only by an engineer because the fibre cable is delicate.
Conclusion
Full fibre installation is a simple process handled by trained engineers who bring fibre directly into your home. Once the cable is in place and the ONT is fitted, your router connects, and your broadband is ready to use. This setup removes copper lines and prepares your home for faster speeds and stronger performance.
The installation steps are clear, and you can ask the engineer about anything during the visit. Most homes complete the process within a few hours and start enjoying more reliable internet straight away.
Now that you are upgrading to ultrafast Full Fibre, it is the perfect time to modernize your communications stack. We have tested the market leaders—read our guide to the top UK VoIP Providers to find a system that matches your new high-speed connection.
Learn More About Broadband Options
You can learn more through the following pages:
- SoGEA Broadband Guide
- FTTP Broadband Services
- Business Broadband Solutions
- VoIP Phone Systems for UK SMEs
Quick Broadband Check
Find out what broadband types are available for your address. Our team responds fast and explains everything in a clear, simple way.
