PON Deployment & Beyond – Solutions, Gaps, and What’s Next
Aginet by TP-Link has expanded its capabilities to deliver complete Passive Optical Network (PON) solutions that cover everything from Optical Line Terminals (OLTs) to Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) and high-performance routers. This integrated approach means providers can now source the entire chain from a single vendor.
Two Paths to PON Deployment
In the UK, most operators use a two-box solution, where the OLT feeds fibre into an ONT or SFU. This device converts fibre to Ethernet, enabling the use of traditional Ethernet routers or mesh systems inside the home. It’s a familiar setup that operators and installers trust.
The alternative is a one-box solution—less common in the UK but growing fast—where fibre connects directly into a router with a built-in PON interface. This recalls the shift from standalone ADSL modems to integrated DSL routers years ago. TP-Link offers Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 devices with integrated GPON or XGS-PON interfaces, so operators can choose between models that match their customers’ connectivity and speed needs.
OLT Options and Scalability
TP-Link’s OLT portfolio includes compact “pizza box” units and modular chassis systems. The pizza box OLTs range from simple single-port GPON devices supporting smaller deployments, up to 16-port combination OLTs handling GPON and XGS-PON with support for thousands of ONTs. These models feature dual hot-swappable power supplies, 10G or 40G uplinks, and remote management via TAUC.
For operators who need even more scale, the new chassis options provide expandable configurations. The two-slot and seven-slot chassis systems accommodate interchangeable service boards—GPON, XGS-PON, or hybrid—to flexibly build capacity over time. A 15-slot chassis is also in development, giving ISPs room to grow their networks without forklift upgrades.
ONTs and SFP Modules
On the customer side, TP-Link offers GPON and XGS-PON ONTs with options ranging from basic 1G Ethernet ports to 10G-capable models. Some ONTs have integrated voice ports (FXS) for legacy phone services, reducing the need for separate voice gateways. SFP modules are also available to populate OLT ports with GPON or XGS-PON optics.
Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 Routers
For in-home connectivity, TP-Link’s Aginet range includes both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 routers. Wi-Fi 7 delivers tri-band speeds and lower latency, ideal for high-density smart homes and gigabit fibre connections. Entry-level GPON Wi-Fi 7 routers are available alongside more powerful XGS-PON models. For customers who aren’t ready for Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 6 dual-band routers remain a reliable option.
Mesh networking is a central feature across all these products. Whether fibre terminates in a router or an ONT, operators can deploy TP-Link’s mesh units as satellites or primary routers. The same management experience applies across the ecosystem, ensuring a consistent user experience.
Unified Management with TAUC
All OLTs, ONTs, and routers integrate into TP-Link’s TAUC management platform. This cloud-based system lets operators monitor, configure, and troubleshoot the full end-to-end environment—from the fibre headend to the customer’s Wi-Fi network. It streamlines operations, reduces truck rolls, and keeps support teams in control.
Exploring FWA as a Complement
Despite the progress in fibre rollouts, there are areas where fibre simply isn’t feasible. In rural communities or heritage zones, digging trenches can be expensive or blocked by regulation. That’s where Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) comes in.
Aginet offers outdoor 5G units—such as the NE225—that mount on walls, poles, or glass. These connect via PoE to an indoor router, delivering broadband speeds over cellular networks. Indoor Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 FWA gateways further expand coverage where fibre can’t reach. As with fibre deployments, these solutions integrate with TAUC for remote management and optimization.
Looking Ahead
PON deployments are evolving fast. One-box solutions are gaining traction as Wi-Fi 7 adoption grows. Modular chassis OLTs are bringing scalable fibre capacity to more ISPs. And FWA is emerging as a flexible last-mile alternative.
For operators planning their next steps, TP-Link’s comprehensive portfolio—from OLTs and ONTs to mesh routers and management tools—means you can build, scale, and support networks with confidence. For more information or to request product samples, reach out to Paul Howard, Aginet Pre-Sales Director, or click on this link to download our latest Wi-Fi 7 white paper.
Read the full White Paper here
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