NBN Fibre to the Node explained (FTTN)
The National Broadband Network uses a mix of technologies. You can click here to find out what technology is used for your address.
Description
Fibre optics are used to connect to a Node (Street Cabinet) located nearby in your neighbourhood. From here, existing copper line technology is used to make the final part of the connection for each premise. The homeowner’s responsibility (Network Boundary Point) starts from the first wall socket within the premises for a single dwelling, and in a multi-dwelling complex or building, it's the Main Distribution Frame (MDF). Copper lines within a multi-dwelling are generally the responsibility of the Building Owner, Body Corporate or Strata Management. Unlike some other NBN technologies, there is no NBN Connection Box, your modem/router connects directly to the wall socket.
What can affect the connection speed?
There can be many different reasons for poor connection speed. Most complaints are due to issues beyond the First Wall Socket, such as poor Wi-Fi coverage or cabling within the premises. For more information, refer to the NBN Key Facts Sheet and our article Slow Speeds - NBN Connections.
Installation
You simply connect your Modem/Router to the first wall socket (most commonly, this is located in the kitchen).
For more information, click here to watch the FTTN informational video. Note that Home Phone services (where applicable) are not delivered through your modem, as illustrated in this video.
For more information, click here to watch the FTTN informational video. Note that Home Phone services (where applicable) are not delivered through your modem, as illustrated in this video.
NBN's responsibility ends at the on-site communication room for a multi-dwelling complex or building. This can also be referred to as the 'Main Distribution Frame (MDF)'. You may require assistance from your Building Owner, Body Corporate or Strata Management to organise a registered cabler to complete the final part of the connection to a socket within your premises. Registered cablers can be found at https://www.acma.gov.au/find-registered-cabler
We recommend only sourcing a registered cabler after NBN has completed and labelled (tagged) their part of the connection first.
What does the FTTN equipment look like?
NBN does not provide any equipment for FTTN connections. You can supply and configure your own modem/router or obtain a preconfigured one with your MyHomeFone NBN plan.
More Information
- More details, including how to prepare for an NBN installation appointment
https://www.nbnco.com.au/learn/network-technology/fibre-to-the-node-explained-fttn - Video: How to locate the correct wall socket
Note that this video refers to an NBN Connection Box, which does not apply to FTTN connection types. NBN does not provide any equipment for FTTN connections. Instead, your modem/router connects directly to the wall outlet.