Switching to fibre internet in Phakalane is straightforward because the area is already “fibre‑lit” by BOFINET, with several ISPs offering FTTH (Fibre to the Home) packages. Below is a step‑by‑step guide you can follow to switch from ADSL, LTE, or wireless to fibre in your Phakalane home or office.
1. Check if fibre is available at your exact address
Even though BOFINET has rolled fibre through Phakalane, not every compound is on‑boarded yet.
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Use the provider’s coverage checker (Mascom, 3net, Paratus, or Jenny) to confirm FTTH availability using your estate/plot number.
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Or WhatsApp/DM BOFINET with your pin location to confirm feasibility before committing to a plan.
If you are in Phakalane proper (main estates, Phakalane Mall side, or near Phakwane), you are very likely eligible.
2. Choose a suitable fibre provider
Several ISPs in Phakalane run over the BOFINET fibre backbone but package it differently. Popular options include:
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Mascom MyHome Fibre: Offers FTTH in Phakalane with fixed‑monthly uncapped plans and a 3‑year contract; typical installation in 2–3 working days on internal fibre.
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3net: Lists Phakalane as a fibre‑available residential area, with FTTH installation fee around BWP 1,350 and average connection time of about 3 days once BOFINET lines are ready.
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Paratus: Offers uncapped fibre plans for homes and businesses and can connect you via BOFINET‑based FTTH in supported Phakalane sectors.
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Jenny Fibre: Provides business‑oriented fibre connectivity using BOFINET’s network and has a dedicated dealer presence in Phakalane.
Compare: speeds, installation fees, contract length, and data caps (or uncapped terms) before choosing.
3. Cancel your current ISP (if on contract)
If you are under contract with an ADSL/LTE provider:
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Check your contract end date and early‑termination fees (if any).
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Notify the ISP of your intention to cancel, either by email or via their customer‑care channels, and request a closure date that gives you buffer time to test fibre.
If you are on a no‑contract wireless or LTE plan, you can simply stop renewing bundles once fibre is live.
4. Apply for fibre and schedule installation
Once you pick a provider:
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Apply online or visit their office/authorized dealer in Gaborone (e.g., Mascom shop, 3net, or Paratus office).
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Provide your ID, proof of residence, and Phakalane address; they will confirm feasibility and quote: monthly fee, installation charge, and activation time (commonly 2–7 working days).
During installation, a technician will:
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Run a fibre line from the nearest distribution point to your home.
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Fit an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) inside and connect it to your router (yours or provider‑issued).
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Test speeds and help you connect your devices (Wi‑Fi networks, wired PCs, smart TVs).
5. Set up your home network on fibre
After installation:
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Decide if you will keep the ISP’s router or use your own; many modern routers are compatible, but best practice is to confirm with the provider.
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Reconfigure Wi‑Fi SSID/password, enable dual‑band if your router supports it, and set up any smart‑home or surveillance devices on the new fibre link.
For a smoother migration, port your static IP or special services (VoIP, CCTV feeds) to the new fibre line, and ask your provider for a small overlap period if you rely on uninterrupted connectivity.
