Less confusing than trying to cancel a streaming subscription.

When it comes to getting connected to the nbn™ network, there’s more than one way the magic happens. Depending on where you live, your connection type might involve fibre, copper, coaxial cable, or even radio signals zipping through the air. Each one works a little differently, but all roads lead to the same place: fast, reliable internet at your place.

Here’s a breakdown of the different nbn connection types—minus the jargon, plus a few friendly tips.

Fibre to the Node (FTTN)

This one's a mix of new and old. Fibre-optic cable is run to a node near your street—think of it as the neighbourhood internet hub. From there, your existing copper phone line takes over and brings the nbn™ goodness into your home.

📞 You’ll connect through your regular telephone wall socket, just like you did with ADSL.

Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)

This is the gold standard of nbn™connections. Fibre runs all the way from the node directly into your home—no copper involved. Note: As the nbn™ team make their way around the country updating the technology, more and more people become eligible for an upgrade! If you’re not on FTTP and keen to move up, give us a call on 1300 228 123 and we can check for you.

🧰 An nbn access device will be installed inside your house to get you up and running. Once it’s set up, you’re ready to enjoy one of the fastest and most reliable nbn connections available.

Fibre to the Building (FTTB)

Live in an apartment or multi-dwelling unit? FTTB is for you. Fibre runs to the building’s communications room, then the existing copper wiring takes over to deliver internet to your individual apartment.

🏢 You’ll plug into your wall socket just like you would with ADSL—it’s a familiar setup with an upgraded backend.

Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)

This one brings the fibre a little closer—right to a pit near your driveway, in fact. From there, a small Distribution Point Unit (DPU) connects the fibre to your home via the existing copper phone line.

💡 It’s a clever hybrid setup that brings you solid speeds without needing fibre right inside your home.

Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)

If your place had pay TV or cable in the past, chances are you’ve got HFC. Fibre runs to the nearest node, then a coaxial cable (the same type used for cable TV) finishes the job.

📺 A handy option for urban areas, HFC uses what’s already there to deliver fast internet straight to your place.

Fixed Wireless

Not sure which connection type you have?

You can check for yourself on the nbn address lookup here, but when you sign up with us, we’ll let you know what’s available at your address and what that means for your setup. We're here to make getting connected easy, no matter how the tech works behind the scenes.

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