Hardware Setup Support Topics

Knowing what to expect can make installation day simple and stress-free. This guide explains how our technicians set up your equipment and what you can do to prepare.

Before the Appointment

• Ensure someone 18 or older is present.
• Clear access to the areas near your power outlets and entry points (such as where the line enters your home).
• Have your devices ready to connect once setup is complete.

During the Installation

• The technician will install the necessary equipment — typically an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) and a router.
• The router will be positioned for best Wi-Fi coverage.
• The technician will verify signal quality and confirm your connection is active.

After the Installation

• You’ll receive your Wi-Fi network name and password.
• Connect your devices and confirm internet access.
• The technician will answer any final questions before leaving.

Your router is the central hub of your home network. It manages how your devices connect and securely communicates with Netspectrum’s network using PPPoE authentication. Understanding how these components work helps you maintain reliable service.

Key Components

• Signal Source
• Fibre Customers: The internet signal enters your home through an Optical Network Terminal (ONT).
• Wireless Customers: The signal is received by an outdoor radio, powered by an indoor power supply.

Router

• The router connects to your ONT or radio via Ethernet.
• It distributes the internet to your devices through Wi-Fi or wired connections.
• Netspectrum routers use PPPoE credentials to authenticate service.

If your router is reset or replaced, these details must be re-entered; call 1-800-461-6379 for assistance.

Devices

• Phones, computers, smart TVs, and tablets connect through Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
• Each connected device shares available bandwidth, which can affect overall speed.
• Lights and Indicators
• Power Light: Solid means the router is on.
• Internet/WAN Light: Solid or blinking green indicates an active connection.
• Red or Off Light: Usually means the router is not authenticated or not receiving signal.

Connections

• Verify all Ethernet cables are securely inserted and undamaged.
• Avoid pinching or sharply bending cables.

Whether you are a new customer or reconnecting existing equipment, setting up your internet is simple. Netspectrum provides service through either a fibre ONT (Optical Network Terminal) or a wireless radio mounted outside your home. The ONT or radio provides the signal that connects to your router, which then distributes the internet throughout your home.

Steps

1) Locate Your Equipment

• Find your ONT (for fibre) or radio power supply (for wireless).
• Ensure it’s plugged into a working power outlet and that the indicator lights are on.

2) Connect the Router

• Use an Ethernet cable to connect from the ONT or radio’s LAN port to the router’s WAN or Internet port.
• Make sure both ends are firmly inserted.

3) Power On

• Plug in your router and wait two to three minutes.
• Most routers display solid power and internet lights once they have started up.

4) Authenticate Your Connection (PPPoE Login)

Netspectrum uses a secure login method called PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet).
Your router will need a username and password provided by Netspectrum to activate your connection.
Please call Netspectrum Support at 1-800-461-6379 to confirm or enter your PPPoE credentials.

5) Connect Your Devices

• Find the Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password printed on your router.
• Select the network on your device and enter the password.
• Verify Internet Access
• After authentication, open a web browser or run a speed test.
• If pages load normally, your setup is complete.