To connect a 100Mbps fiber optic connection to a router, ensure your router and network card support the required speeds and media type, and configure the connection properly.

Hardware Requirements

1. Fiber Network Card (NIC): Use a NIC compatible with your fiber connection. For 100Mbps fiber, most standard SFP or SFP+ NICs will work, but confirm the card supports 100Mbps speeds and the type of fiber (single-mode or multimode) you have .
2. Router Compatibility: Ensure your router has a WAN port or SFP slot that supports fiber input. Some routers only support 10/100Mbps Ethernet, which will cap your speed at 100Mbps .
3. Cabling: Use the correct fiber optic cable (SC/APC or SC/UPC connectors) to connect the ONT/modem to the NIC or router . For Ethernet connections from the ONT to the router, use Cat5e or Cat6 cables to avoid speed limitations .

Setup Steps

1. Connect the Fiber Cable: Plug the fiber optic cable from the wall outlet into the ONT or modem.
2. Link to Router or NIC: Use an Ethernet cable to connect the ONT's Ethernet port to the router's WAN port or directly to the NIC if connecting a PC/server .
3. Power On Devices: Turn on the ONT and router, and wait for the status lights to stabilize (usually 2–5 minutes), .
4. Configure Network Settings: Access the router's admin panel to verify port negotiation speed. Set the speed and duplex to 100Mbps Full Duplex if auto-negotiation does not achieve the correct speed .
5. Update Drivers: On a PC, ensure the NIC drivers are up to date. Disable power-saving options in the NIC properties to prevent the connection from dropping to 100Mbps unexpectedly .

Troubleshooting

• Speed Stuck at 100Mbps: This can occur if the router or NIC is limited to 100Mbps, the cable is faulty, or power-saving features are enabled .
• Try Different Ports or Cables: Switching Ethernet ports or using a new Cat5e/6 cable can resolve negotiation issues .
• Check NIC Settings: In Device Manager, set speed and duplex manually to 100Mbps Full Duplex if auto-negotiation fails .
• Router Upgrade: If your router only supports 10/100Mbps, upgrading to a gigabit router or NIC is necessary to achieve higher speeds . By ensuring hardware compatibility, proper cabling, and correct configuration, a 100Mbps fiber optic connection can be reliably connected to a router card, providing stable and consistent network performance.