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Switch a VDSL modem-router to Ethernet WAN

How to turn an old FTTN/VDSL modem-router into a standard Wi-Fi router using its Ethernet WAN (EWAN) port.

A modem-router used on FTTN, FTTB or another VDSL service may still be usable, but it must stop using its DSL socket and start using an Ethernet WAN or EWAN port.

Check whether the router is compatible

Check the back of your router or its manual for any of the following features:

  • A dedicated port labelled WAN, Internet or EWAN.
  • A combined port labelled LAN/WAN, LAN4/WAN or similar.
  • An operating mode option for Wireless Router or Ethernet WAN / EWAN.
  • PPPoE listed as an available Ethernet WAN connection type.
A DSL socket is not an Ethernet port. Do not plug your fibre box into the smaller DSL/Phone socket—use the Ethernet WAN port instead.

If your router only has DSL and LAN ports without an EWAN setting, it won't work with AFTEL. Some provider-supplied routers also lock this feature in their firmware.

Change from VDSL to Ethernet WAN

Find your router's settings menu under Operation Mode, Internet, Broadband or Advanced.

  1. Connect to your router and log in to its admin page or app.
  2. Open the operating-mode or internet-access menu.
  3. Change DSL Modem Router or VDSL to Wireless Router, Ethernet WAN or EWAN.
  4. If asked, choose which port to use for WAN (usually labelled WAN or LAN4/WAN).
  5. Save the change and allow the router to restart. Some models move to a different administration address after changing mode.
Before changing modes: photograph the router label and current Wi-Fi details. If the router also provides a telephone service from a previous provider, changing mode may stop that service.

Connect and configure AFTEL

01Connect Fibre Box (LAN 1)
02Router WAN / EWAN Port
03Enter PPPoE Username & Password
  1. Connect Fibre Box LAN 1 to the newly selected WAN/EWAN port.
  2. Open the router’s Internet or WAN settings.
  3. Select PPPoE and enter the credentials supplied by AFTEL.
  4. Save, wait several minutes and look for a Connected status and WAN IP address.
Can't find an Ethernet WAN mode?

Search the manual using the exact model and hardware version. If Ethernet WAN/EWAN is not supported—or the provider firmware removes it—the device is not suitable as the main AFTEL router.

The LAN4/WAN port isn't working as a WAN port?

The operating mode usually needs to be changed before the combined port becomes WAN. Saving the PPPoE details alone may not switch the physical port.

The router connects but my old phone no longer works

Provider-supplied telephone services are often tied to the previous provider’s firmware and account. Contact that provider before relying on the device for telephone service.