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hß · NetworksCurated

Return of compulsory routers? Dispute over the network termination point for fibre

Summary

In 2023 network operators and consumer advocates disputed whether the freedom of choice of router, in force since 2016, also applies to GPON fibre connections. The associations Anga, Buglas, Breko, VKU and VATM applied to the Federal Network Agency to move the network termination point behind the operator’s fibre modem (ONT). Customers would then no longer be able to operate their own fibre router directly at the connection socket.

Ideas

  • The German Telecommunications Act places the end of the network at the connection socket, to which customers may connect their own devices.
  • In passive optical networks, many customers share one fibre.
  • The operators argue with addressing, interference and security.
  • According to the associations, only about 0.1 percent of customers want their own ONT.
  • A faulty device in a GPON can disrupt up to 63 other connections.

Insights

  • Technical details such as the network termination point decide consumer rights.
  • Freedom of choice of router means control over your own home network and its security.

Facts

  • Freedom of choice of router has been anchored in the Telecommunications Act since 2016.
  • In May 2023 the FSFE warned of attempts to circumvent router freedom across the EU.
  • Consumer advocates point out that combined ONT and router devices need less energy than two devices.

References

Critique

  • The figure of 0.1 percent comes from the operators themselves and is not independently substantiated.

Remarks

  • Even with an operator ONT, your own router behind the modem remains possible; the question is who controls the device on the fibre.

Recommendations

  • Before signing a fibre contract, clarify whether your own ONT or your own router is allowed.
  • Behind a provider ONT, use a self-managed router with current firmware.

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