You may choose your modem to connect to your fixed Internet provider, but there are conditions attached to this:
- the chosen modem has to meet the specifications of your provider
- the modem may not cause damage to the provider's network
- the modem has to be updated regularly
Your provider may refuse your modem or interrupt the connection if your modem is insecure. This prevents damage to the network or other users. Following the disconnection, the provider will contact you.
All Belgian providers have to allow the use of end-user’s own modems and have already published the specifications for the modems concerned: Telenet, Proximus, Orange (all the way at the bottom), EDPnet, Mobile Vikings, Scarlet, Tchamba, Tadaam, Base, fastfiber,
Choosing your own modem
These modems (and routers) will be available through different channels, both online and in specialised stores. These free modems/routers may differ from the devices offered by the provider, for instance as regards the support of a new Wi-Fi technology, lower power consumption, or the support of specific additional functionalities.
Be sure to inform yourself thoroughly before purchasing your own modem. Also, make sure that the modem you want to purchase bears the correct CE marking and is accompanied by a EU Declaration of Conformity. Then you know that the equipment complies with the European regulations on safety, health and environment.
Activating your own modem
You have to activate your own modem yourself, without technical support from your Internet provider.
Each provider has developed a procedure to connect your own modem so these procedures may differ from provider to provider.
To connect your modem, you need the settings. The provider has to publish the settings on his website. Some modem manufacturers have built these settings into their modem, others require you to define them manually.
Some settings such as user names, passwords, and keys are personal to you as a customer. In addition, your provider needs data from you to activate the modem. For example, the serial number/MAC address of the modem must be communicated to the provider, which can usually be done via the website. After that, the modem must be plugged in and is ready for use.
Testing with a temporary modem
Some providers may initially provide you with a modem from themselves in order to be able to activate the broadband service. After this, you can connect and activate your own modem. You keep the provider’s modem. In the event of problems with your broadband connection, your telecom provider may request to test the connection using a modem from the telecom provider that he is sure is working correctly. If you did not get a modem from your provider, it can be sent to you, whether or not at a predetermined cost.
Your provider does not offer a free choice
Does your modem comply with the rules, but does the provider not cooperate? Write a letter or e-mail to the provider requesting a solution within a reasonable time.
If there is no good solution, you can turn to the Office of the Ombudsman for Telecommunications for mediation. Report your problem to the BIPT as well so that it can keep track of the providers who are not following the rules.
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