Can I use my own router or modem instead of the provider’s in Croatia?
Fixed internet operators must let you use your own router or modem instead of theirs and publish all the data you need to connect it. Only in exceptional, justified cases may they require their own network terminal (ONT) on a fibre line.
Many people prefer their own router. Whether your provider must let you connect it, and which details it must give you to set it up, depends on the rules in Croatia.
📜 The rules in Croatia
The details
- Under the EU open internet rules you may access and share any lawful content through any terminal equipment, and providers must treat all traffic equally. (hakom.hr)
- The operator's own equipment must support the contracted speeds, wired and wireless. A fault on equipment it gave you must be fixed within 5 days of your report. (narodne-novine.nn.hr)
- If you use your own equipment and complain about a fault, the operator checks its own network; if it can't find the cause, it may ask you to test with its equipment. (narodne-novine.nn.hr)
- A phone bought with a contract must be unlocked for other networks free of charge when you sign. Prepaid phones: on request, one year after purchase and with the receipt, within 5 days. (narodne-novine.nn.hr)
Hrvatska regulatorna agencija za mrežne djelatnosti (HAKOM)
Telecom regulator: explains your rights on its user protection line (working days 9:00–11:30) and settles disputes with operators after the operator's two-stage complaint procedure.
🪜 Step by step
- Check that it fits your lineMake sure the router supports your type of connection: fibre, cable, DSL or mobile.
- Ask for the access detailsYou need the login data and settings for the internet connection and, if you have one, for phone service over the internet.
- Keep or return the provider’s deviceAsk whether you must return a rented router, and whether you keep paying for it.
- If the provider refusesAsk for the refusal in writing and contact the regulator or the dispute body.
📇 Who to contact
Sponsor this page → One labelled block, €100 a month. Founding price €75 until 31 January 2027.
❓ Questions
Will the provider still help me if something goes wrong?
Providers usually support the connection itself, not equipment you bought. Keep their device and settings so you can test with them.
Do I still pay for the provider’s router?
Check your contract. If the router is rented, ask whether you can stop paying when you use your own.
Will my own router make my internet faster?
It can improve your Wi‑Fi, but the speed of the line itself stays the same.
📎 Sources
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