What connector should I use for the fiber optic cable in my router

Fiber optic cables connect to an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) using SC/APC or SC/UPC connectors, and the ONT then links to the router via an Ethernet cable.

How the Connection Works

Fiber optic cables do not plug directly into standard home routers because the optical signal must first be converted into an electrical signal. This conversion is performed by an Optical Network Terminal (ONT), which is typically provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and installed near the fiber entry point in your home or office .

Fiber Connector Types

• SC/APC (Angled Physical Contact): Commonly used in single-mode fiber installations; the angled end reduces signal reflection and improves performance .
• SC/UPC (Ultra Physical Contact): Another single-mode connector type with a flat end, often used in residential setups . These connectors are designed to click securely into the ONT's optical port, ensuring proper alignment of the fiber strands for optimal signal transmission .

Router Connection

Once the fiber signal is converted by the ONT, the router is connected via a standard Ethernet cable. The Ethernet cable plugs into the ONT's LAN or Ethernet output port and then into the router's WAN (Wide Area Network) port. This allows the router to distribute the internet connection to your devices over wired or wireless networks .

Optional Direct Fiber-Ready Routers

Some advanced routers have SFP or SFP+ ports that can accept fiber modules directly. In such cases, the fiber connector type (LC, SC, etc.) must match the SFP module specifications . However, for most residential setups, the ONT-to-router Ethernet connection is standard.

Summary

• Fiber cable to ONT: SC/APC or SC/UPC connector
• ONT to router: Ethernet cable (Cat6 or higher recommended)
• Direct fiber-ready routers: Use SFP/SFP+ modules compatible with the fiber type This setup ensures proper signal conversion and reliable high-speed internet connectivity over fiber optics.