- An Openreach FTTP installation may begin with a survey to plan how fibre will reach your property.
- On installation day the engineer runs fibre from the network into your home and installs an optical network terminal (ONT).
- Work can involve external attachment points and a small entry point through an external wall.
- The engineer tests the connection before leaving; you can usually discuss where the ONT is placed.
An Openreach full-fibre installation is more involved than plugging in a router, because new fibre often has to be physically routed to your home for the first time. Knowing the stages, and what the engineer will and will not do, helps you prepare and avoids surprises on the day.
The survey
For some properties, Openreach carries out a survey before the installation to work out the best route for the fibre, whether overhead from a pole or underground through ducts, and to identify any obstacles. Not every install needs a separate survey, but where the route is complex, this step plans the work so installation day goes smoothly.
What happens outside
On installation day the engineer brings the fibre from the nearest network point to your property, either along an existing overhead route or through underground ducting. They fit an external attachment or small box on the outside wall, and make a discreet entry point through an external wall to bring the fibre inside.
What happens inside
Inside, the engineer installs the optical network terminal, the ONT, which is the unit that converts the fibre signal. They connect your router to it and bring the service up. ONT placement matters for your Wi-Fi, since the router usually sits near it, so it is worth discussing where it goes before they fix it in place.
Installation stages and timing
| Stage | What happens | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| Survey | Plan the fibre route (if needed) | Before install day |
| External work | Fibre run, wall box, entry point | Part of install day |
| Internal work | ONT installed, router connected | Part of install day |
| Testing | Connection verified before leaving | End of visit |
Testing and sign-off
Before leaving, the engineer tests that the connection is live and working. Ask them to confirm the service is up and, if you can, to check the speed. If anything is not working, raise it immediately rather than after they have gone. Once signed off, you have a full-fibre connection that does not need the long stabilisation period older copper lines require.
Frequently asked questions
What happens on Openreach FTTP installation day?
The engineer runs fibre from the network into your home, fits an external attachment point and a small entry through an external wall, installs an optical network terminal inside, connects your router, and tests the connection before leaving.
How long does FTTP installation take?
It commonly takes a few hours, depending on how the fibre needs to reach your property and whether overhead or underground routing is used. The provider gives an appointment window, and you normally need to be home for it.
Will Openreach need to drill through my wall?
Usually a small, discreet entry point through an external wall is needed to bring the fibre inside. The engineer aims to keep this neat and unobtrusive. Discuss the entry point and equipment placement with them before the work is done.
What is an ONT and where is it installed?
An optical network terminal converts the incoming fibre signal into a connection your router uses. It is installed inside your home, usually near where the fibre enters and where the router will sit, since that placement affects your Wi-Fi coverage.
Can I choose where the ONT is placed?
You can usually discuss placement with the engineer, within the practical limits of where the fibre enters and what cabling allows. Because the router typically sits near the ONT, raising your preference before installation helps your Wi-Fi coverage.
