The quickest way to know if your ONT (Optical Network Terminal) is working is to check its indicator lights. Look for a solid green "Power" and "PON" (or sometimes "Optical") light.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Understanding the Key Indicator Lights
| Light | Color | Status | Meaning | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power | Green | Solid | ONT is receiving power and is turned on. | If off, ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the ONT and the wall outlet. Try a different outlet. |
| PON/Optical | Green | Solid | ONT is successfully connected to the fiber optic network. | If off or blinking, check the fiber optic cable connected to the ONT. Ensure it's securely plugged in. Do not bend or damage the fiber. |
| LOS | Red | On or Blinking | Loss of Signal. Indicates a problem with the fiber optic connection. | Usually requires contacting your internet service provider (ISP) for assistance. Do not attempt to fix the fiber optic cable yourself. |
| Internet | Green/Blue | Solid | ONT has a working internet connection. (Color may vary depending on the ONT model.) | If off or blinking, restart your router. If that doesn't work, restart the ONT (unplug and plug back in). |
| Voice | Green | Solid | Voice service (if applicable) is working. | If off or blinking, check your telephone cable and contact your ISP if the problem persists. |
What to Do If the Lights Aren't Right
If the "Power" or "PON/Optical" lights are off, blinking, or a different color than solid green, you likely have an issue. Try these steps:
- Check the Power: Make sure the ONT is plugged into a working power outlet and that the power cord is securely connected.
- Check the Fiber Cable: Carefully examine the fiber optic cable connected to the ONT. Ensure it's properly plugged in and not damaged. Important: Fiber optic cables are fragile. Avoid bending or kinking them.
- Restart the ONT: Unplug the ONT from the power outlet for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Allow a few minutes for it to restart.
- Restart Your Router: Even if the ONT seems to be working (solid green "Power" and "PON"), try restarting your router. This can resolve connection issues between the ONT and your devices.
When to Contact Your ISP
If you've tried the troubleshooting steps above and the "Power" or "PON/Optical" lights are still not solid green, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for assistance. There might be an issue with the fiber optic network or the ONT itself that requires professional attention. Especially if the LOS light is red.
