Hawaiian Telcom is upgrading its network to fiber-optic technology. Properties and residents currently receiving service over copper-based networks will need to transition to fiber service once it becomes available and the copper network is scheduled for retirement in their area. 

Copper networks are significantly older and increasingly difficult to maintain. Fiber provides a more resilient, efficient, and future-ready platform for delivering communications services. It is more reliable, supports faster internet speeds, and is more resilient during severe weather events. 

Residents benefit from a newer, more reliable fiber network that supports faster internet speeds, including gigabit and multi-gigabit service options where available. Fiber also provides greater network reliability and resiliency during severe weather events, while better supporting remote work, online learning, gaming, streaming, video conferencing and future technology needs. 

We may need access to telecommunications rooms, permission to install fiber equipment, coordination with property management and building staff, help communicating project timing and unit-access requirements to residents, and information about building access procedures, construction restrictions and specialty systems. 

In most cases, yes. Technicians may need access to units where residents currently receive Hawaiian Telcom service or new fiber customers. Hawaiian Telcom and property management will coordinate resident notices and appointments. 

Hawaiian Telcom provides resident notices with project details, required actions, appointment instructions and timing. Property management supports notice distribution, confirms building access procedures, coordinates common-area access and helps residents understand how to schedule appointments. Residents are responsible for scheduling required appointments and providing unit access. 

No. There is no charge for the installation or equipment required to upgrade existing services to fiber. If a property has unique building conditions or a resident requests new features, faster internet speeds, additional services, or a different service configuration, Hawaiian Telcom will review the applicable options before work begins. 

Hawaiian Telcom will work with property management to minimize disruption. Activities are generally limited to telecommunications spaces, common areas, and units receiving service. Existing pathways may be used where practical; new fiber cabling may be installed when needed. A proposed cabling route can be provided upon request. 

Upgrade timelines can vary depending on the size and complexity of the property, existing wiring, and equipment setup. Hawaiian Telcom will work with property management to develop an installation schedule and complete the upgrade as efficiently as possible. 

Technicians may install fiber network equipment in common telecommunications areas and, where service is provided, a Fiber Network Terminal (ONT) and related equipment in individual units. Equipment placement will be reviewed during planning. 

Hawaiian Telcom will install or replace the equipment needed to deliver fiber service. Resident-owned equipment, including routers, computers, phones, medical alert devices, alarm systems or fax machines, remains the resident’s responsibility. Residents should confirm compatibility and contact the equipment provider if setup, testing or changes are needed. 

Yes. Fiber-based voice and internet services require power where service is delivered. During a power outage, services may not work unless backup power is available. Property management should review backup-power needs for common-area communications and critical building systems; residents may also want to consider backup-power options for services in their units. 

As part of Hawaiian Telcom’s network modernization efforts, copper networks in fiber-served areas will eventually be retired. Once all Hawaiian Telcom customers at the property have upgraded to the fiber network, property management may request removal of retired copper cables at no charge. 

Residents will receive advance notice before copper services are retired. Once fiber service is available and the copper network is scheduled for retirement, residents receiving service over copper facilities will need to upgrade to fiber to continue receiving service. Property management can help avoid disruption by sharing notices, supporting access coordination, and encouraging residents to schedule their upgrade. 

A Hawaiian Telcom project manager or account representative will serve as the primary point of contact throughout the upgrade. 

Hawaiian Telcom can review the services available at the property, answer questions, coordinate access needs, and work with property management on an upgrade schedule. Property management can help by identifying building access procedures, specialty systems, and any resident communication needs before installation begins.