What connection types are used on the nbn® network?

The most common nbn connection types are Fibre to the Node and Fibre to the Building.

FTTN runs an optic fibre line to the nearest available fibre node in your street, or a nearby street, with a final stretch of copper cable to your wall socket.

Good to know: 

• For 18 months after the nbn network is in your area, FTTN connections will co-exist with existing services that are yet to complete their switch to the nbn network. Once that period is over, you may notice an increase in speed and stability of your nbn network connection. 
• If you’re in an FTTN area and you want multiple providers for your phone and/or internet services, you’ll need to have a separate line installed for each service.

FTTB is the most common connection type for units, apartment buildings and many commercial buildings.

An optic fibre line runs from the nearest available fibre node to your building’s communications room. From here, a copper cable runs to your wall socket.

Good to know:

• For 18 months after the nbn network is in your area, FTTB connections will co-exist with existing services that are yet to complete their switch to the nbn network. Once that period is over, you may notice an increase in speed and stability of your nbn network connection.
• If you’re in an FTTB area and you want multiple providers for your phone and/or internet services, you’ll need to have a separate line installed for each service.

FTTC runs an optic fibre line to a small node in the telecommunications pit or on a pole outside your premises. From the node, a copper cable delivers the service to your wall socket.

FTTP runs an optic fibre line from the nearest available fibre node directly to your premises. Due to its complexity and cost, FTTP is the least common nbn connection type.

Look for:

• an nbn utility box attached outside your premises leads to an nbn connection box inside your premises;
• a power supply/battery backup (in some instances).

HFC connections utilise existing cable TV technology. An optic fibre line leads to the nearest available fibre node to your street. From here, a coaxial cable runs to your wall socket.

Look for:

• an HFC utility box attached outside your premises;
• a coaxial wall socket inside your premises;
• a splitter (in some cases),
• an nbn connection box

Good to know:

• If you’re in an HFC area and you want multiple providers for your phone and/or internet services, you’ll need to have a separate connection installed for each service.

FW technology starts at a wireless tower. The tower sends the signal to a fixed antenna on your roof, which continues through internal wiring to your wall socket.

Look for:

• an nbn antenna outside your premises;
• an nbn connection box inside your premises;
   

Good to know:

• For Fixed Wireless, an nbn co technician must perform a test to find out if your property can receive an adequate signal. If not, we’ll discuss other options with you.
• If you’re in an nbn Fixed Wireless area, it’s not mandatory to switch to the nbn network.

Learn more about Fixed Wireless