Does AT&T provide equipment for internet?
Is Equipment for Internet Also Provided by AT&T?
This is a common question that customers have when using the internet from providers such as AT&T to know if they require getting their modem or router or if the provider offers it to them. Some insights about what exactly AT&T provides in terms of hardware may assist in preparation for the new services.
AT&T Internet Equipment
In regards to the internet service offering, most internet services offered by AT&T such as the AT&T Fiber or the AT&T Internet, the company offers some routing equipment to the customers free of charge. Here are some of the devices AT&T typically supplies with home internet service:
- Modem/Router Combo Device – To subscribe to most of their plans, they provide a modem and a wireless router rolled into one for the customers. It does not require someone to lease a modem separately as is the case with most broadband internet connection services. The hardware is in turn connected to the AT&T network to surf the internet. : It also emits a WiFi signal for the connection of wireless devices.
- Fiber Optic Terminal (Fiber Plans Only) – Upon signing up for AT&T Fiber Optic Internet, the company places an external fiber terminal. The DSL line comes from the AT&T fiber and connects to the larger fiber network. It is required to deliver fiber speeds.
- Fixed wireless transceiver – For AT&T Fixed Wireless Internet, a receiver is mounted outdoors to capture the fixed wireless signal from an adjacent tower. Finally, the receiver interfaces with the indoor equipment.
AT&T offers Genie Minis when you subscribe to DIRECTV/Internet bundles because the provider also offers additional cable boxes known as the Genie DVR cable box to connect other television sets. Still, Internet-only clients would only get a modem/router and the fiber or fixed wireless devices that are required.
Internet Equipment You Provide
While AT&T supplies the main internet hardware, there are some devices and accessories you still need to provide: While AT&T supplies the main internet hardware, there are some devices and accessories you still need to provide:
- Inside Wiring – Equipment will be installed in one phone outlet in the home through the facilities of AT&T. For coupling devices in other rooms inside wiring such as phone or Ethernet is needed.
- The actual terminals, or the devices that will connect to the home Internet signal, such as computers, phones, streaming, Wireless printers, and so on, are additional.
- Network Extenders –AT&T will be used to provide standard WiFi coverage which is good for accessing the internet. For further signal coverage, other devices such as a mesh WiFi system or a WiFi booster are required. These are bought from stores at an extra fee.
Leased vs. Owned Equipment
These comprise the networking hardware that AT&T offers while they retain the ownership of the hardware. In a way, they are renting themselves devices while paying for the service. If service is terminated, the given equipment must be relinquished. In the current models of these plans, there is a possibility to buy the AT&T gateway directly and not lease it. However, owned equipment entails a $100 reoccurring fee for every piece of equipment used.
Installation and Setup
As for most internet plans, given at competitive prices, AT&T offers standard setup and installations for free. A professional will be dispatched to the location with the responsibility of establishing the internet service provider connectivity, which may involve wiring or setting up other equipment. They will also make the necessary configurations to ensure that the customer devices connect to the network to access the internet. Anything that is done in the theatre that is not normal practice can attract extra charges.
However, as we can see AT&T also offers and installs the initial modem, router, and other equipment needed to provide a home internet connection. Consumer devices can connect to the local network without being controlled by the consumers themselves. Consider these factors as you compare AT&T Fiber Plans and choose what extra equipment is necessary and within AT&T internet packages’ price range. Understanding or better still having a clue of what is covered within the package and what is charged separately can help avoid hidden charges later.
Upgrade to faster, more reliable AT&T Fiber Internet today! Call us at +1 844-905-5002 and get connected with speeds that keep you ahead.
