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The NBN Connection Types Explained Simply

Photo by Franck V. on Unsplash

The NBN (National Broadband Network) is slowly taking over the entire country of Australia. By 2020, every Australian citizen will have to make the switch to the NBN, unless they want to live without the Internet. One of the reasons why everyone is so scared of the idea is because the whole NBN concept could get pretty confusing at times. And it’s quite understandable, with all the different plans, speed tiers and connection types.   

Speaking of connection types, this is the subject of our article. Keep reading in order to find out everything you need to know about the technologies made available for your NBN connection, everything being explained in a simple manner. All you need to remember is that you’re not going to be able to choose the connection type that is going to be used for your house, as it depends on the area where you live in.

FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)

This means that a fast fibre optic cable is going to be connected directly to your house. This might be the most capable connection type when it comes to providing faster Internet. Also, another benefit is that you are provided with multiple phone and Internet sockets that allow you to connect more than one phone or Internet lines. This connection type is definitely good enough for everyone, as long as you are not too bothered by a hole in the wall.

FTTN (Fibre to the Node)

In this case, a fibre optic cable will go through a node box and then to the old copper phone line that is already existing in your house. The good part is that there won’t be any holes in your wall and you won’t have to have workers inside that usually make a mess. On the other side, fast Internet is not guaranteed, and you might also have to change your modem.

FTTB (Fibre to the Building)

This type of connection is extremely similar to the FTTP one but designed for apartment blocks or maybe office buildings.

FTTC (Fibre to the Curb)

Being available only in Sydney and Melbourne, this type of connection works out by installing it in pits at the end of customers' driveways.

HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial)

In this case, a fibre optic cable will go through a node box and then it continues to the coaxial cable that might already be there. Luckily, this connection can provide very fast Internet, especially if you choose one of the NBN plans that offer Australians higher download and upload speeds.

Fixed Wireless

This one is pretty straight-forward. A wireless antenna is going to be placed on your roof, that antenna is going to be connected to a nearby tower and then you have an Internet connection. If you live in the rural areas of Australia, this is most likely the type of connection that you are going to get. Unfortunately, this connection type does not offer high-speed Internet, and it also requires you to change your modem.

It’s true that it can get pretty confusing at times, and even overwhelm when you need to make all of the choices when the time comes for you to switch to the NBN. But a little research will help you understand the NBN concepts and make the best decision.