Help · 4 min · Last reviewed 5 Jul 2026
How broadband activation works
In short
What actually happens on your activation day, whether an engineer is needed, and when your broadband will start working.
Activation is the day your broadband service becomes live. What actually happens depends on the type of connection.
Full-fibre (FTTP)
- An Openreach engineer typically visits (unless a fibre socket is already installed).
- They run a fibre from the street to an ONT box inside your home.
- Once installed, plug the OCCTA router into the ONT with the Ethernet cable provided.
- Service is usually live within an hour.
Copper broadband (FTTC / SOGEA)
- Usually no engineer visit — activation happens remotely on the exchange.
- Plug your OCCTA router into the master socket on your live date.
- Wait up to 30 minutes for the DSL light to become solid.
When exactly on your live date?
Openreach do not give a specific time. Most activations complete before 6pm. If you are still offline by end of day, restart the router once, wait 10 minutes, then contact us.
Emergency numbers on activation day
If you rely on a phone line for personal alarms or medical devices, tell us — we can plan Digital Voice setup carefully around your activation.
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Related
This guide is for general information only. Your accepted Contract Summary, Contract Information and OCCTA terms apply to your service.