
SON (Self Organizing Network)
What is SON?
Self-Organizing Networks (SON) significantly improve Wi-Fi performance by automatically identifying and fixing Wi-Fi problems.
Connected devices will move seamlessly between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi signals, and between access points if a Fios Network Extender has been added to your home network.

Self Organizing Network Frequently Asked Questions
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1. What is a Self-Organizing Network (SON)?
A Self-Organizing Networks (SON) is a technology that significantly improves Wi-Fi performance by automatically connecting customer devices to the optimal Wi-Fi band available and identifying and fixing Wi-Fi issues.
2. How will SON improve Wi-Fi?
Connected devices will move seamlessly between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, and between access points if a Fios Network Extender is paired with a Fios Quantum Gateway router, to optimize your devices’ Wi-Fi connection.
3. What happens to my Wi-Fi when SON is enabled?
When SON is enabled, the two unique Wi-Fi Names (SSID’s) assigned to identify the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands will convert into a Single Wi-Fi Name (SSID), and retain the Wi-Fi name/password you currently have for 2.4GHz. Please see examples below.
4. Why will my Wi-Fi Name (SSID) with -5GHz no longer be available?
In order for SON to work correctly, a single Wi-Fi name or SSID is required. The single SSID will support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections, but now you will no longer have to manually select between the two Wi-Fi names. The router shall determine if devices connect to 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands so the best performance can be provided.
5. Do I have the ability to turn SON off?
Yes. If you choose to disable the Wi-Fi SON feature, the router GUI or MyFios App provides the ability to enable/disable. Please see steps below
- Open MyFios App
- Select Wi-Fi settings, Select Self Organizing Network
- Turn SON "Off"
6. Do I have the ability to turn SON on?
Yes. SON can be enabled with the MyFios App. Please see examples below on how to enable.
- Open MyFios App
- Select Wi-Fi settings, Select Self Organizing Network
- Turn SON "On"
7. What security modes are supported?
WPA2 is the only encryption supported by SON.
8. If I have a 3rd party router (non-Verizon), can I have SON enabled?
No. SON is only supported on Fios Quantum Gateway (G1100) and Fios Network Extenders (WCB6200Q). Approved devices below. Other routers may provide their own version of SON which is not compatible with Verizon devices.
Fios Quantum Gateway
Fios Network Extender WCB6200Q
9. If I’m using the Fios Advanced Wi-Fi Router (MI424WR Rev. I Router) and the Fios Network Extender (WCB6200Q), can I have SON enabled?
No. SON is only supported on Fios Quantum Gateway (G1100) and Fios Network Extenders (WCB6200Q). See approved devices in FAQ #8.
10. If I’m using the 1st Generation Fios Network Extender (WCB3000N), can I have SON enabled?
No. SON is only supported on Fios Quantum Gateway (G1100) and Fios Network Extender (WCB6200Q). See approved devices in FAQ #8.
11. If I have a device that specifically requires connection to 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands, and I have a single Wi-Fi Name with SON, how do I ensure I am connected to the correct band?
Follow the instructions in FAQ # 5 to turn SON off. Then make a selection to connect your device(s) to the appropriate band.
12. What is the difference between MAC filtering and Home Network Protection?
Home Network Protection (HNP) has features such as Access Control / Parental Control / Block Internet Access, that help identify and inform you of any new devices that show up on your home network. This notification is provided in real-time to your mobile device. You can then choose to add or block the device from your home network. You can also further manage individual devices from your mobile phone by setting appropriate access levels by device, user, time of day, and website category.
MAC filtering allows you to block devices before they connect to the network by manually entering the individual MAC address of each device.
With our latest firmware security update, MAC filtering will no longer be available on your router. HNP's Access Control / Parental Control / Block Internet Access features may be used as an alternative to MAC filtering.
13. How do I enable SON?
My Fios App is the quickest and easiest way to enable the SON enhancement.
You can also enable SON by visiting myfiosgateway.com
14. How does SON Enabled / Disable work, if my router is being replaced?
If your router is being replaced (rental or purchased), and you have already opted into the SON enhancement, your new replacement router will also be SON enabled.
If you have not previously opted into the SON enhancement, SON will be disabled by default, and you will need to Opt-in via the My Fios App.
15. Do I need to reboot my router and FNE after I enable / disable SON?
Yes. Reboot your router after enabling or disabling the SON feature enhancement. If you have an FNE (Fios Network Extender), reboot the FNE as well. Rebooting the router and FNE will ensure everything is reset, and your devices (phone/laptop/other devices) have the ability to disconnect and then reconnect to Wi-Fi.
16. Does my Router get SON if I Move my Fios to Another Location?
Yes. If you move your Fios service from one location to another, your router will automatically receive the Self Organizing Network (SON) enhancement. With SON enabled, the two unique Wi-Fi Names (SSID’s) assigned to identify the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands will convert into a Single Wi-Fi Name (SSID), and retain the Wi-Fi name/password you currently have for 2.4GHz. To disable this enhancement, please refer to FAQ #13. How do I enable SON?.
Fios Quantum Gateway
Fios Network Extender WCB6200Q
See also:
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Self Organizing NetworkA Self-Organizing Networks (SON) is a technology that significantly improves Wi-Fi performance by automatically connecting customer devices to the optimal Wi-Fi band available and identifying and fixing Wi-Fi issues.
Connected devices will move seamlessly between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi signals, and between access points if a Fios Network Extender has been added to your home network.
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