Key Takeaways
- Verizon Fios uses a fiber-optic device called an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) instead of a traditional cable modem. The ONT connects to your router, which provides your Wi-Fi and wired connections.
- You can activate Fios internet service yourself by visiting activate.verizon.com on a connected device or by using the My Fios app. You will need your order number, ZIP code, or My Verizon account login.
- Fios Digital Voice phone service is activated by connecting a standard phone cable from your home phone to the port labeled "Phone 1" on the ONT. No separate modem or adapter is required for phone service.
If you just signed up for Verizon Fios and you are wondering how to activate your modem, there is an important detail you should know first. Verizon Fios is a fiber-optic internet service, which means it does not use a cable modem the way providers like Xfinity or Spectrum do. Instead, Fios relies on two main pieces of equipment: an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) and a router.
The ONT is a small box, usually mounted on a wall in your garage, basement, or utility closet. It receives the fiber-optic signal and converts it into data your home network can use. Your router then connects to the ONT and broadcasts your Wi-Fi signal. If you have been searching for how to "activate a modem" with Verizon Fios, you are actually looking for how to activate your ONT and router together.
This guide walks you through every step of the activation process, including how to set up Fios Digital Voice phone service if you have it.
What You Need Before You Start
Before beginning activation, make sure you have the following items ready:
- Your Verizon Fios self-install kit (includes the router, power cable, Ethernet cable, and coaxial cable)
- A working ONT already installed at your address (Verizon handles ONT installation during a technician visit or a previous tenant may have had one installed)
- Your Verizon order number and ZIP code, or your My Verizon account login credentials
- A smartphone, tablet, or laptop to complete the activation process
Quick Clarification: Modem vs. ONT vs. Router
A modem is used with cable or DSL internet to convert signals from your ISP. Verizon Fios does not need one. An ONT is the Fios equivalent. It converts the fiber-optic light signal into an electrical signal. A router connects to your ONT and creates your home Wi-Fi network. When people say "Fios modem," they usually mean the ONT, the router, or both.
How to Activate Verizon Fios Internet: Step by Step
There are two ways to activate your Fios service: through a web browser or through the My Fios mobile app. Both methods accomplish the same thing. Choose whichever is most convenient for you.
Method 1: Activate Using a Web Browser
This method uses a direct, wired connection and tends to be the most reliable option.
Step 1: Locate Your ONT
Find the Optical Network Terminal at your address. It is typically a white or black box mounted on a wall in your garage, basement, utility closet, or near where utilities enter your home. It may be enclosed in a grey protective case. Confirm the ONT power supply is plugged in and the indicator light is green.
Step 2: Connect the Router to the ONT
Use the Ethernet cable from your self-install kit to connect the ONT's Ethernet port to the WAN or Internet port on your Fios router. This port is usually yellow. For the best performance, always use an Ethernet connection rather than coaxial.
Step 3: Power On the Router
Plug the power cable into your Fios router and connect it to a wall outlet. Wait five to ten minutes for the router to fully boot up. On the Verizon Fios Router (G3100) or the newer Verizon Router (CR1000A), the front status light will turn solid white when the router is ready.
Step 4: Connect Your Device to the Router
Use an Ethernet cable to connect a laptop or desktop computer directly to one of the LAN ports on the back of the router. Alternatively, connect to the router's Wi-Fi network. The default Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password are printed on a label on the back or side of the router.
Step 5: Activate Your Service
Open a web browser and go to activate.verizon.com. Follow the on-screen prompts. You will need to enter your order number and ZIP code, or log in with your My Verizon credentials. The activation process usually takes just a few minutes.
Step 6: Test Your Connection
Once activation is complete, open a new browser tab and try loading a website. If it loads successfully, your Fios internet is active. You can run a speed test at speedtest.verizon.com to confirm you are getting the speeds included in your plan.
Method 2: Activate Using the My Fios App
Step 1: Connect the Hardware
Follow Steps 1 through 3 from Method 1 above to physically connect your ONT, router, and power cable.
Step 2: Connect Your Phone or Tablet to the Router's Wi-Fi
Find the default Wi-Fi network name and password on the label on your router. Connect your mobile device to this network.
Step 3: Download and Open the My Fios App
Download the My Fios app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and sign in with your My Verizon account, or use your order number to begin setup.
Step 4: Follow the In-App Instructions
The app will walk you through the activation process, including detecting your router and confirming your service. When activation is complete, the app will confirm that your internet connection is live.
How to Activate Verizon Fios Phone Service (Digital Voice)
If your Fios plan includes home phone service, Verizon delivers it through a feature called Fios Digital Voice. This is a Voice over IP (VoIP) service that runs through your fiber connection, not through traditional copper phone lines. Here is how to set it up.
Step 1: Connect Your Phone to the ONT
Take a standard telephone cable (RJ-11) and connect one end to the base of your home phone. Plug the other end into the port labeled "Phone 1" on the back of your ONT. If you have a second phone line, use the "Phone 2" port.
Step 2: Complete Internet Activation First
Your phone service activates as part of the overall Fios service activation. Complete the internet activation steps described above using either the web browser or the My Fios app. Phone service should come online automatically once your account is fully activated.
Step 3: Test Your Phone
Pick up the handset and listen for a dial tone. Try making a test call. If you hear a dial tone and the call connects, your Fios Digital Voice service is working.
Fios Digital Voice: What You Should Know
- All calls, including local ones, require 10-digit dialing (area code plus phone number).
- Your voicemail access number is 1-888-234-6786.
- You can manage calling features like Call Forwarding and Do Not Disturb through the My Verizon web portal or, if you have Fios TV, through your TV remote by navigating to Menu then Fios Digital Voice.
- The ONT has a battery backup unit that keeps basic phone service (including 911) running for up to eight hours during a power outage.
Troubleshooting Common Activation Problems
If your Fios service does not activate on the first try, here are the most common issues and how to fix them.
No Activation Page Appears in Your Browser
Make sure your device is connected to the Fios router via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Try clearing your browser cache or switching to a different browser. You can also try typing 192.168.1.1 directly into your browser's address bar to access the router's admin page.
The Router Light Is Not Turning Solid White
Unplug the router's power cable, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Allow up to 10 minutes for it to fully restart. If the light remains off or stays a color other than white, confirm the Ethernet cable is securely connected between the ONT and the router's WAN port.
The ONT Power Light Is Off
Make sure the ONT power supply unit is plugged into a working electrical outlet. The outlet must be a grounded, three-prong outlet that is not controlled by a wall switch. If the indicator light remains dark, try a different outlet.
Internet Activation Fails or Shows an Error
Confirm you are using the correct order number, ZIP code, or My Verizon login. If your service order has not been fully processed by Verizon yet, activation may not work until your scheduled start date. Contact Verizon support at 1-800-837-4966 if the issue persists.
No Dial Tone on Phone Service
Verify the phone cable is plugged into the "Phone 1" port on the ONT, not a LAN or Ethernet port. Make sure your internet activation is fully complete, as phone service depends on it. Restart the ONT by unplugging its power supply for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.
Can You Use Your Own Router With Verizon Fios?
Yes. You can use your own router with Verizon Fios, and doing so can save you the monthly router rental fee. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
You need a router with an Ethernet WAN port. You do not need a modem, since the ONT handles that function. If your ONT is currently connected to the Verizon router using a coaxial cable (common in older installations), you will need to call Verizon at 1-800-837-4966 and ask them to activate the Ethernet port on your ONT. This is done at no extra charge.
If you have Fios TV service with Fios One set-top boxes, you are required to keep the Verizon router as your primary router. Internet-only customers have full flexibility to swap routers.
Keep in mind that Verizon does not provide technical support for third-party routers. If you run into issues, you will need to troubleshoot on your own or post in the Verizon community forums for help from other users.
Your Fios phone service will not be affected by switching to your own router. Phone service connects directly through the ONT and does not depend on which router you use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a modem for Verizon Fios?
No. Verizon Fios is a fiber-optic service that uses an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) instead of a traditional cable modem. The ONT converts the fiber signal into data for your home network. You only need a router to create your Wi-Fi connection. If someone refers to a "Fios modem," they are usually talking about the ONT or the router.
How long does it take to activate Verizon Fios internet?
The physical setup and online activation process typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Most of that time is spent waiting for the router to boot up. The actual online activation at activate.verizon.com or through the My Fios app usually completes in just a few minutes.
Can I activate Verizon Fios before my scheduled start date?
In many cases, yes. Verizon allows early activation for self-install customers. However, your billing will begin as soon as the equipment is activated, so keep that in mind before starting the process ahead of schedule.
What is the Verizon Fios ONT and where is it located?
The ONT (Optical Network Terminal) is a device installed by a Verizon technician that connects your home to the fiber-optic network. It is usually mounted on a wall in a garage, basement, utility closet, or near the exterior point where utilities enter your home. It may be inside a grey protective case.
How do I activate Verizon Fios phone service?
Connect a standard telephone cable from your home phone to the "Phone 1" port on the back of your ONT. Complete the standard Fios internet activation process through activate.verizon.com or the My Fios app. Phone service activates automatically as part of your account setup. Pick up the phone and check for a dial tone to confirm it is working.
What should I do if my Verizon Fios router is not connecting to the internet after activation?
First, confirm the Ethernet cable is firmly connected between the ONT and the router's WAN port (usually yellow). Restart both the ONT and the router by unplugging their power cables for 30 seconds, then plugging the ONT back in first and waiting two minutes before powering on the router. If the issue continues, contact Verizon support at 1-800-837-4966.
How much does it cost to rent a router from Verizon Fios?
Verizon charges a monthly router rental fee, which is currently around $18 per month depending on your plan. You can avoid this fee by purchasing your own compatible router. Any router with an Ethernet WAN port will work with Fios. You do not need a modem or a combo modem-router unit.
