What does a network administrator of the fiber network do? The difference with an internet provider
If you get fiber, two names suddenly come up: the network operator and the internet provider. Handy, but sometimes also confusing. Who does what? And why are two parties involved in the fiber network? We asked Jeroen Dangremond, Manager Customer Operations at Open Dutch Fiber. He explains step by step how the fiber network works and how the tasks are precisely divided.
What exactly is a fiber network?
A fiber network is a network of very thin cables made of glass. Small light signals travel back and forth through those cables. That light carries information, such as images, sound and data. Because light is very fast, fiber can transmit large amounts of information at once.
Therefore, fiber is:
● faster than cable and DSL;
● more stable when many devices are online;
● ready for the future with lots of space in the network.
According to Jeroen, that's very necessary: “People are using more and more devices at the same time. The network has to handle that. Fiber can handle that pressure effortlessly.”
Also read the article: Comparing fiber per household: which speed fits your situation?
Fiber in the Netherlands: who installs it?
In the Netherlands, various parties install fiber networks. Open Dutch Fiber does so in more and more cities and towns. They build new networks and ensure that homes can be connected to them. The provider then uses that network to deliver internet, TV, and telephony.
Jeroen emphasizes the collaboration among all these parties: “There are multiple network builders in the Netherlands. We are one of them.” This gives residents more choice and ensures that fiber grow rapidly in the Netherlands.
Also read the article: Fiber repair: when does your provider help and when does Open Dutch Fiber help?
What does a network operator like ODF do?
The network operator is responsible for everything related to the fiber cable and the fiber network. ODF provides:
● the management and maintenance of the network;
● the repair if a cable is broken.
Jeroen explains it clearly: “We make sure the network works. From the street to the connection in the house.” If something goes wrong with the cable, the network operator fixes it.
What does an internet provider do?
The internet provider delivers your services: internet, TV, and telephony. They manage your subscription, your speed, and the modem in your house. Therefore, you always start with your provider when you have questions or problems. They first check if the problem is in your home or in their own systems.
Only when the provider sees that it is not due to their services does the network operator come into play. Then it's about the fiber cable or the network itself, which falls under ODF.
As Jeroen explains: “We lay the track and keep it in good condition. The providers ride their services on it. If something goes wrong on the train, the provider helps. If something goes wrong with the track, then we take action.”
So you know exactly where to start: your provider investigates the problem and contacts ODF when needed.
Who is my provider with fiber?
Sometimes you're not sure which provider you're with, for example after moving or switching. You can quickly find this out through:
● your bank statements;
● your email;
● your account with the provider;
● the provider check from ODF.
Time for fiber? Compare subscriptions and switch
Each provider offers different speeds, packages, and prices. Therefore, it's useful to see exactly which providers can connect your home. On our provider page you get a clear overview in a few seconds of all providers at your address. After that, you can calmly compare and choose which package best suits your household and internet usage.
About Jeroen Dangremond
Manager Customer Operations
This article was written in collaboration with Jeroen Dangremond. Jeroen is the customer operations manager at Open Dutch Fiber. He ensures that the connection of homes runs smoothly, with minimal inconvenience to residents. His goal: a quick and careful installation of fiber, so that everyone can enjoy a seamless online experience.
