The National Broadband Network (NBN) is Australia’s national Internet infrastructure. It is designed to deliver high-speed broadband across the country. However, not all NBN connections are the same. The NBN uses a mix of technologies to connect the Internet to homes and businesses. With Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) being two of the most common types.
If you’re wondering whether your connection if FTTN or FTTP, this guide will help you understand the difference between the two, how to identify your connection type and what it means for your Internet speed and reliability.
What is Fibre to the Node (FTTN)?
Fibre to the Node (FTTN) is a type of NBN connection where fibre optic cable run to a node or cabinet located on your street or in your neighbourhood. From the node, the connection to your home using existing copper wires.
How FTTN Works
- Fibre optic cables connect the node to the wider NBN network.
- The node acts as a central distribution point for multiple homes in the area.
- Copper wires connect each home to the node.
Advantages of FTTN
- It uses existing infrastructure by using copper wires, FTTN can be faster to deploy than FTTP.
- It has lower installation costs since fibre isn’t directly installed directly to homes. Setup costs are cheaper for providers.
Disadvantages of FTTN
- It has speed limitations since copper wires can’t carry data as efficiently as fibre which limits the maximum speeds available.
- Distance-dependant performance means that the further your home is from the node, the slow your Internet connection.
What is Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)?
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) is a connection type where fibre optic cables run directly to your home or business. This means there is no reliance on copper wires which provides a faster and a more reliable connection
How FTTP Works
- Fibre optic cables connect your home directly to the NBN network.
- A device called an NBN connection box is installed in your home to manage the connection.
- The connection bo links to your modem or router giving you Internet access.
Advantages of FTTP
- Faster speeds as fibre optic cables can carry data at higher speeds than copper wires.
- Better reliability as FTTP is less affected by distance, weather or electrical interference.
- Future-proof technology as FTTP can support higher speeds as the technology advances.
Disadvantages of FTTP
- Higher installation prices as installing fibre directly to homes is more expensive for NBN Co and Internet providers.
- Longer deployment times because FTTP rollouts can take longer than FTTN.
How to Check If You Have FTTN or FTTP
There are many ways to find out your NBN connection type.
Use the NBN Address Checker
Visit the NBN Co Website and enter your address in the address checker tool. This tool will tell you what type of connection is available at your property.
Check Your Modem or Router
Your modem or router step can give you clues about your connection type
- FTTN: Requires a VDSL2 modem to connect to the copper phone line.
- FTTP: Connects to an NBN connection box which links to your modem using an Ethernet cable.
Ask Your Internet Provider
Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can confirm your connection type. Contact their customer service team with your account details or address for information
What Does My Connection Type Mean for Internet Speeds
Your connection plays an important part in knowing the speed and reliability of your Internet
FTTN Speeds
- The maximum speeds FTTN connections can achieve are up to 100Mbps but this depends on the quality of the copper wires and the distance from the node.
- Speed variations as speeds may drop during peak times or due to poor line quality.
FTTP Speeds
- The maximum speeds FTTP supports are up to 1000Mbps (1Gbps) on premium plans.
- Consistent performance as FTTP connections are not affected by peak-hour congestion or distance from infrastructure
Can I Upgrade from FTTN to FTTP
If you have FTTN and want to upgrade to FTTP, there are options available but they depend on your location and eligibility
Free Fibre Upgrade Plan
NBN Co is rolling out free fibre upgrades in selected areas as part of government-funded initiatives. Check with your Internet provider to see if your home is eligible for an upgrade
NBN Technology Choice Program
If you’re not eligible for a free upgrade you can still apply for an on-demand upgrade through the NBN Technology Choice Program. This will allow you to pay for an FTTP upgrade at your own expense. Costs may depend on the complexity of the installation
What if I Have Another Connection Type?
In addition to FTTN and FTTP, you may have a different NBN connection type. Here’s how they compare:
Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
- Fibre runs closer to your home than FTTN with copper used only for the final connection.
- FTTC offers better speeds than FTTN but may not match FTTP’s performance
Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
- Uses existing pay-TV cables for the final connection.
- HFC can deliver high speeds but may face reliability issues during peak times.
Fixed Wireless
- Internet is delivered via radio signals from a nearby tower.
- Fixed Wireless is more common in rural areas but often has lower speeds and higher latency than fibre connections.
Satellite
- Internet is provided via satellite for remote locations.
- Speeds are slower and latency is higher due to the distance data must travel.
How Does My Connection Type Affect Costs?
The type of NBN connection ar your home can affect costs for setup, upgrades and monthly plans.
Setup Costs
- FTTP: This may need a professional installation of an NBN connection box.
- FTTN: Uses existing infrastructure leading to lower setup costs.
Upgrade Costs
- Free fibre upgrades are available in some areas but on-demand upgrades can cost thousands of dollars.
Monthly Plan Costs
- Your connection type doesn’t usually affect monthly plans costs but higher-speed plans may only be available on FTTP or other high-performance connections.
Making the Most of Your NBN Connection
Regardless of your connection type, there are ways to make the most of your Internet experience:
- Choose The Right Plan: Select a plan that matches your home’s needs, including speed and data allowances.
- Upgrade Your Equipment: Make sure your modem or router is compatible with your connection type and supports the speeds offered by your plan.
- Improve Wi-Fi coverage: Position your modem centrally and think about using a Wi-Fi extender for bigger homes.
- Monitor Speeds: Runs speed tests like the Ookla Speed Test regularly to make sure you’re getting the performance advertised and promised in your plan.
Conclusion
Knowing whether your NBN connection is Fibre to the Node (FTTN) or Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) can help you understand your Internet speed, reliability and upgrade choices. While FTTP offers faster speeds, FTTN can still meet basic needs especially if you’re close to the node
If you’re looking for faster Internet check if your home is eligible for a free fibre upgrade or think about applying for an on-demand upgrade. By understanding your connection type and checking out options, you can make good decisions to make your Internet experience better.
