Bringing your Own Router to your Ting

Have a router you ❤️ already?

If you’ve got a router you already love, there’s no need to break up. We support many third-party routers, so you can stick with what works for you.

Whether you’re staying loyal to your current setup or eyeing an upgrade for better speed or coverage, here’s what to know to make sure your router works like a charm.

What your router needs to work with Ting

Ting Internet uses standard Ethernet to connect to your router, which means many third-party models will work just fine. But to make sure you’re getting fiber speeds, your router has to meet a few basic specs.

Minimum requirements

At a minimum, your router should have:

Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or newer: This refers to the wireless standard your router uses. Wi-Fi 5 is fast enough for most people, but Wi-Fi 6 (the next generation) is even better.
WAN port: This is where your Ting connection plugs in. It may be labeled WAN or Internet. Just make sure it’s a standard Ethernet port, since not all WAN ports are physically compatible.
Ethernet LAN ports: These are used to connect wired devices like desktop computers or smart TVs.

💡 How to check:
Look for this information on the box your router came in, the manufacturer's website, or on a label on the bottom of the router. If you're unsure, try searching the model number online with keywords like “specs” or “Wi-Fi standard.”

Recommended specs for best performance

To take full advantage of fiber speeds, we recommend a router with:

Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or newer: This offers faster speeds and better performance, especially with multiple devices.
A mesh system: Ideal for homes over 1,500 sq ft or with more than one floor. Mesh setups use multiple access points for better coverage.
2.5 Gbps or faster WAN port: Ensures your router isn’t a bottleneck.
2.5 Gbps or faster LAN port: Important if you plan to connect wired devices at full speed.

💡 Pro tip:
Many routers will list their speed capabilities (like “AX3000” or “Wi-Fi 6E”) on the box or in the product description. That’s often a clue that they support newer standards.

Physical compatibility: what ports to look for

Ting uses standard Ethernet to connect your router to our fiber network. That means many third-party routers will work just fine, as long as they have the right physical ports.

Confirming compatibility

Check the ports on the back of the router. You’re looking for a WAN port and standard Ethernet LAN ports.
Look at the box: It might show a photo of the back of the router or a diagram of the ports.
Read the specs listed on the box or product page. You’ll want to see:
- Gigabit WAN or RJ45 WAN (this is the input for your Ting connection).
- Ethernet LAN or RJ45 LAN (these are the outputs for wired devices).
Shopping online? Search the model number with keywords like “WAN port” or “Ethernet ports” to confirm what’s included.

Compatible ports

‍Your router should have a row of Ethernet ports, with one clearly labeled WAN, Internet, or marked with a globe icon. This is where your Ting fiber connection will plug in.

Incompatible ports

‍Some routers are designed to work only with specific types of internet service (like DSL or cable). These will have different ports and won’t work with Ting.

Watch out for:

A phone jack (narrower than Ethernet, usually labeled DSL).
A coaxial cable port (round, metal, and screw-in).
A fiber ONT built into the router (often labeled SFP and may have a metal shield around the port).

What a router does (and why you need one)

We bring fiber internet into your home using a small box called an ONT (Optical Network Terminal). This box connects to our fiber network and gives you a wired internet signal through an Ethernet port.

But that signal on its own won’t get your devices online. That’s where a router comes in.

A router’s main job is to:

Create a Wi-Fi network so your wireless devices (phones, laptops, tablets, etc.) can connect to the internet.
Manage traffic between your devices and the internet, making sure everything runs smoothly.
Provide network security, helping protect your home network from unauthorized access.

If you want to connect wired devices (like a desktop computer, gaming console, or smart TV) you can plug them directly into the router using Ethernet cables.

Can I bring a modem?

If you’re coming from a non-fiber internet service, you can probably ditch your old modem. Many internet providers use combination modem/router boxes (sometimes called “gateways”) that handle both the internet connection and Wi-Fi in one device. Even if you purchased that box from your old ISP, it won’t work with Ting. You’ll need a standard wireless router to connect to our fiber equipment (ONT).

Ting Whole Home Wi-Fi

If you don’t want to bring your own router, or just want a simple, reliable setup, check out our Whole Home Wi-Fi.

Whole Home Wi-Fi is a good fit for larger homes, homes with multiple floors, or anyone who wants strong, seamless Wi-Fi without having to manage their own networking gear.

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