Australia's National Broadband Network (nbn™) uses different technologies to deliver internet services across diverse geographic and infrastructure settings. Here's a breakdown of each technology type, its benefits, and key considerations:
1. Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
Overview: A fibre-optic cable runs directly from the local node to your premises, offering high-speed and reliable connectivity.
Equipment: Requires an external Utility Box and an internal Connection Box. A battery backup is optional for critical devices like medical alarms.
Speeds: Supports speeds from basic evening speeds to Premium tiers.
Best For: Users requiring consistent, high-speed internet, including gamers, streamers, and businesses.
Power Outage Impact: Backup battery supports essential services for up to 5 hours.
2. Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
Overview: Fibre runs to a street node, then connects to premises using existing copper infrastructure.
Equipment: Uses existing wall sockets; no new in-premises equipment needed.
Speeds: Basic to Standard Plus evening speeds, with Premium speeds available for eligible premises.
Best For: Cost-conscious users or areas relying on older infrastructure.
Limitations: No battery backup; affected by copper line quality.
3. Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
Overview: Fibre extends to a Distribution Point Unit (DPU) in the street, then uses copper to connect to the premises.
Equipment: Includes a Connection Box and an nbn™-compatible modem.
Speeds: Ranges from basic to Premium evening speeds.
Best For: Suburban areas with modern copper wiring.
Limitations: No battery backup; dependent on copper line quality.
4. Fibre to the Building (FTTB)
Overview: Used for apartments or multi-dwelling units, with fibre reaching a central communications room and copper connecting individual units.
Equipment: Utilises existing in-building copper wiring.
Speeds: Basic to Standard Plus evening speeds, with some Premium options.
Best For: Apartment complexes and multi-dwelling buildings.
Limitations: No battery backup; dependent on building’s internal wiring.
5. Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
Overview: Combines fibre to the node with coaxial cable for the last stretch to the premises.
Equipment: Requires a Utility Box, wall plate, and Connection Box.
Speeds: Basic evening speeds to UltraFast tiers.
Best For: Areas previously serviced by cable TV networks.
Limitations: No battery backup; supports only one service at a time.
6. Fixed Wireless (FW)
Overview: Delivers internet via radio signals from a base station to a rooftop antenna and indoor Connection Box.
Equipment: Antenna and indoor Connection Box provided by nbn™.
Speeds: Basic to Fixed Wireless Plus speeds.
Best For: Rural and remote areas.
Limitations: Weather-dependent; may have signal strength issues.
7. Satellite (Sky Muster)
Overview: Connects remote areas using satellite technology.
Speeds: Basic speeds suited for essential services.
Best For: Areas without access to other nbn™ technologies.
Limitations: High latency and data limits; weather-sensitive.
Considerations When Choosing nbn™ Technology
Availability: The technology available depends on your location. Use the nbn™ address checker to confirm.
Speed Needs: Evaluate your usage—streaming, gaming, or large file transfers may require higher speeds.
Reliability: FTTP offers the most consistent performance, while satellite and fixed wireless may be less stable.
Power Backup: If uninterrupted service is critical, consider FTTP with a battery backup.
Need Help?
Contact Pickle for guidance on the best nbn™ technology for your needs or to check availability in your area.