With the goal of providing a much-improved internet infrastructure with the highest speeds possible, the Australian government launched the National Broadband Network in 2009.

Also referred to as the NBN, this massive undertaking aims to deliver internet access to all areas in the country using a mix of fibre optics and other forms of broadband connectivity technology. The rollout’s full completion is still yet to happen but several cities and neighbourhoods are already enjoying the benefits of a more stable and faster connection.

NBN currently offers two types of connection to customers — Fixed Line and Fixed Wireless. Fixed Line mainly travels through fibre optic cables to transmit data. This technology uses light, which explains why it travels faster compared to other connection types. On the other hand, Fixed Wireless uses radio signals from a nearby tower to transmit data to end-users. Contrary to fibre cables that are buried underground, radio transmission is done over-the-air.

There are five kinds of Fixed Line connections: 

• FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) 
• FTTN (Fibre to the Node) 
• FTTC (Fibre to the Curb) 
• FTTB (Fibre to the Building/Basement)
• HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial)

In this post, we will be discussing the FTTB connection. Read along to know more about this fixed-line option if you are looking to upgrade to NBN soon.

FTTB in a Nutshell

Fibre to the Building or FTTB is the type of NBN Fixed Line connection that is generally used in apartment blocks and other multi-tenant buildings. In order to connect the building to the NBN access network, the fibre optic line is connected to the building’s communications room. From here, the signal is transmitted to each of the units within the building.

Similar to the FTTN connection, the fibre node may also be in the form of a secure cabinet located in the building’s communications room. Just like the other NBN services, there is a possibility that FTTB connection is offered in one neighbourhood and not in others.

Requesting FTTB connection in your area follows the same process as the other types. Once the network rolls out, customers in the area it covers need to upgrade to the network within 18 months.

If you are subscribing to an internet service for the first time, applications must be coursed through the service provider of your choosing. Several telcos are offering NBN broadband plans and bundles that customers can select from, depending on their needs and requirements.

If you are wondering if your address has access to FTTB, you can check this NBN rollout map to find out.

Setting up the equipment

Given that the NBN installations will be done outside your premises, your only concern would be making sure that your current modem is compatible with the NBN network. Typically, the VDSL2 modems provided by telcos are NBN-ready.

Service providers are also responsible for relaying instructions to their subscribers on how to set up the modem, so make sure you ask them if you’re not sure how.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I connect to FTTB?

Once your area is declared NBN-ready, meaning the fibre optic cables have been laid out, wiring connections are made, and equipment installation is done, you will be given 18 months to upgrade to the NBN network. Otherwise, you may lose phone and internet services. You can check if your address has NBN access through the link provided above.

My address was declared NBN-ready but our apartment is still unserviceable. What does this mean?

In some cases, NBN declares an area “Ready for Service” (RFS). This means the network is already accessible for residents. However, there are instances when the rollout map yields “Unserviceable post-RFS” upon checking. In these cases, NBN might need more time to set up the connection due to the complexity of the groundwork.

To avoid further confusion, NBN said it will identify serviceable areas that are “ready to connect” and “not ready to connect.”

Can I relocate my wall socket when connecting to FTTB?

When removing or relocating wall sockets, you will have to coordinate with your service provider as this may require additional cabling and costs.