An ONU (Optical Network Unit) is a device used in GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Networks) to connect end users to the network operator's fiber optic infrastructure. The main functions of an ONU are: Provide Ethernet connectivity - ONUs convert optical signals from the operator's fiber network into electrical signals that can be used by end user devices via Ethernet ports. This allows connecting devices like computers, routers, IP phones etc. to the network. Deliver broadband internet - By connecting to the GPON fiber network, ONUs can provide broadband internet connectivity to end users at speeds up to 1 Gbps downstream and upstream. This high-speed internet access enables bandwidth-hungry applications. Support IPTV and VoIP - In addition to internet access, ONUs also allow delivering CATV (Cable TV) and VoIP (Voice over IP) services over the same fiber connection. This convergence of services reduces costs for operators. WiFi connectivity- Many ONUs have built-in WiFi radios to provide wireless connectivity for end user devices. This allows connecting wireless devices like laptops, tablets, phones etc. without running Ethernet cables. Bridge to home network - ONUs bridge the GPON fiber network on one side with the user's home network on the other side. This enables communication between devices on the home network and the internet. Latest generation ONUs are integrating advanced features like: WiFi 6 support - WiFi 6 (802.11ax) ONUs provide higher speed and capacity wireless connectivity while being backwards compatible with older WiFi 5/4 devices. Dual band support allows separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz radios. Multi-Gigabit Ethernet - 1GbE ONUs are common but higher speed 2.5GbE or 5GbE ONUs are being introduced. This provides wiring flexibility and investment protection as home networks evolve. XGPON compatibility - Most ONUs support GPON but XGPON ONUs are future-proof as they also work on 10Gbps XGPON networks used by some operators. Bridge mode - ONU bridge mode bypasses routing functions and provides simple bridging between LAN and WAN. This allows using it with a separate router. Compact size - Many new ONUs boast a smaller micro/mini ONU design that's more aesthetically pleasing in consumer deployments. In summary, ONUs deliverfiber-speed internet & IP services, convert between optical and electrical networks, provide advanced Ethernet/WiFi connectivity and bridge the operator network into the home. As fiber networks evolve to multi-gigabit XGPON, ONUs are integrating the latest technology like WiFi 6, multi-gig Ethernet and bridge mode to power smart home and business applications. Choosing an ONU with the right mix of current and futurelooking capabilities ensures a long and useful life.