Internet connection via an optical fiber link (SFP module)
Many telecom operators and Internet service providers use Active Ethernet technology to connect remote offices and private homes via an optical line. The effective length of the optical communication line is limited only by the type of SFP module used (and could reach up to 80 km); while using a copper Ethernet cable, the connection can be made only up to a maximum of 100 m away.
The main factors that make it expedient to use an optical link instead of a copper one are protection against information interception, stability to radio and electromagnetic radiation, mutual interference, and the possibility to receive gigabit speeds practically at any distance. Fibre-optic cables can be laid close to industrial equipment without any fears. Examples: wireless-uncovered basement, industrial workshop, cottage village, indoor payment terminal, small office or a classroom in a remote building.
Keenetic Ultra features a combined Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45/SFP connector for the WAN port. You can either use the RJ-45 port for an Ethernet cable connection or the SFP port for an uplink connection via an SFP module. In the KN-2710 and KN-1012 models, the WAN port for Ethernet cable connection (RJ-45) and the SFP port work independently of each other.
The SFP module (sometimes referred to as an SFP transceiver) is purchased separately. Check with your ISP which SFP modules they recommend for best compatibility with their equipment.
In the SFP modules compatibility list, we keep an updated inventory of the SFP transceiver models successfully tested in our laboratory or confirmed to work by the end-users.
Note
There are no system restrictions that would only allow using certain models of SFP modules. SFP transceiver made by any manufacturer can be used as long as it meets the industry SFP standard and supports data transfer rates of 100 Mbit/s or 1 Gbit/s.
In the KN-1012, the SFP port has been accelerated to 2.5 Gbps, so you can use an SFP module with a speed of up to 2.5 Gbps. But in KN-1012 there is a limitation: SFP-modules working at 100 Mbit/s cannot be used. The router only allows you to connect at 1 and 2.5 Gbps. If your operator uses 100 Mbps, the connection will not work even if the SFP module is listed as a supported model.
Plug the SFP module into the router's SFP port for fibre optic connectivity. No additional settings need to be made.
Note
The combo WAN port can be configured as a LAN connection. The assignment of any port on the built-in managed switch of the router can be changed according to the user's needs.
You can optically connect two networks using two Keenetic routers (supported models). To do this, assign a combined port with an optical SFP module to the LAN segment on both sides of the line.
In the KN-1012 uses Combination Port 4. This is a multi-gigabit port that combines an RJ-45 connector for an Ethernet cable with an SFP port. The port is preconfigured for home devices, but in router mode it can be reconfigured to connect to the Internet. Only one type of connection can be used at a time. If an SFP module is installed, the RJ-45 connector will not work. An active connection can be identified at sight by the indicator light above the connector.