Fiber optic connection in the meter cupboard: what you need to know

Superfast internet, without interruptions. Streaming movies, video calling, or gaming while someone else is also online in the house. All of this is possible thanks to fiber optic. But before you can enjoy all that speed, the fiber optic cable must first enter your house. And that requires a connection in the meter cupboard. What exactly is that? Where does the box go? And can you have a say in that?

We asked Jeroen Dangremond, manager of customer operations at Open Dutch Fiber. He explains how it works.

Why is the connection of fiber optic usually installed in the meter cupboard? 

Usually, we install the fiber optic connection point in the meter cupboard or at the location where other cables enter your home. It is a convenient place to connect your modem and keep everything tidy.

"The meter cupboard is the standard location for the fiber optic connection," says Jeroen. "That's where we enter with the cable and install the connection point."

Here we place the FTU, the fixed box where we connect the fiber optic cable. You can then connect your modem to it and enjoy super-fast internet.

Can you choose where the fiber optic connection point is located yourself?

Yes, usually yes. If you prefer the connection to be in a different place, that can often be arranged. For example, if your modem or TV connection is somewhere else.

"If residents have their equipment in the living room and it is technically possible, we place the connection point there," Jeroen explains. "We always think along."

Prior to that, someone from Open Dutch Fiber will come by for an inspection. This is a brief inspection to determine where the cable will enter your home and where the connection point should be placed. You will discuss the options together. After that, you will sign for approval so that the installation can begin.

What does the fiber optic connection point look like? 

The connection point is a small white box, usually no bigger than a pack of cards. You will later connect your modem to this box. You can recognize the box by the blue fiber optic cable and the Open Dutch Fiber label.

"We make the connection neat and safe," says Jeroen. "And we test immediately if there is a good signal."

The cabinet stays in that spot, even if you move. The next resident can then easily use it.

What do you need to do yourself?

During the installation, you need to be at home so that the technician can enter. You don't need to prepare anything else. The technician will arrange the connection, test if everything works, and clean up neatly.

After the installation, your provider will activate your internet connection. Some providers send you a package with which you have to activate the connection yourself. Other providers send a technician who will do it for you. Read more: Can I choose my own fiber optic provider?

Do the postcode check.

Do you want to know if your home is eligible for fiber optic from Open Dutch Fiber?postcode check You can quickly and easily see if your address is already on the schedule. You will immediately see if the installation has already started, or if we will contact you soon. This way, you know exactly what to expect.