NBN Technologies
Australia has a variety of NBN technologies, and understanding the differences is essential to ensure your expectations are met.
Sky Muster™ Satellite Service
The nbn™ network extends its reach to rural and remote areas of Australia through the advanced Sky Muster satellite service, operated by two cutting-edge satellites. This enables households and businesses across mainland Australia, Tasmania, and isolated islands like Norfolk Island, Christmas Island, Lord Howe Island, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to access nbn™ powered plans via Sky Muster satellite providers.
In addition to the rooftop satellite dish installed at the premises, Sky Muster connections require the installation of an nbn™-provided modem, which needs power and can only be installed by an nbn™-approved technician.
Wireless Services
Fixed Wireless
An nbn™ Fixed Wireless connection employs radio signals to transmit data, connecting premises to the nbn™ network. This type of connection is common for properties several kilometers apart, utilizing a transmission tower up to 14 kilometers away. The nbn™ outdoor antenna is installed on-site by an accredited technician.
The Fixed Wireless service also requires an indoor nbn™ connection box where the antenna cable enters, which must be installed by an nbn™-approved installer.
Fixed Line Services
Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
FTTN uses preexisting copper phone lines from a nearby fibre node to establish a connection. A fibre node, often housed in a street cabinet, serves as the midpoint between the exchange and the premises, extending connectivity via the existing copper network.
Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
FTTC involves extending fibre infrastructure close to the premises, connecting it to a Distribution Point Unit (DPU) inside a street pit. The connection is completed via the existing copper network, and requires an indoor connection box to be installed.
Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
HFC uses existing pay TV or cable infrastructure to connect premises to the nbn™ network. This type of connection requires an nbn™ network device to be installed at the point where the cable enters your home.
Fibre to the Building (FTTB)
FTTB is commonly used for apartment buildings and similar structures, where a fibre line connects to a fibre node in the building’s communications room. The existing building infrastructure is then used to connect individual units.
Fibre Services
Fibre to the Premise (FTTP)
FTTP connects directly from a fibre node to the premises using a fibre optic line. An nbn™ device inside your home is necessary for this connection, which must be installed by an approved installer.
Enterprise Ethernet (EE)
Enterprise Ethernet offers scalable, business-grade fibre for enterprises needing reliable, high-speed connectivity. This service supports the digital needs of businesses, providing dependable connectivity for video conferencing, cloud services, and more.