The NBN is Australia’s universal pet peeve. How the network is perceived by each individual is dependent on a range of different factors, one of the big ones being technology type.
The technology type used in your NBN
connection not only determines the maximum speeds you can achieve, but also the hardware
that you need, such as a modem.
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What’s the difference between FTTN and FTTP?
Technology types are defined in part by how much copper is still used in order to connect to the NBN. Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
uses the
largest amount of copper, running from a central node out to houses in the neighbourhood. This means that the
dwellings connected to this kind of technology will still be connected via the original copper phone lines and, in
turn, have the slowest fixed-line NBN speeds
available.
While it is possible to achieve 100Mbps downloads on an FTTN
connection, you need to live fairly close to your Node for this to be a reality.
Here are some NBN 50 plans, which should be available to all FTTN connection types.
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) uses no copper and can achieve speeds up to 2Gbps. FTTP connections are usually reserved for new developments (and those who were lucky enough to get NBN under the Labor government) and will have fibre cabling running all the way to the connection point within the dwelling. This means that FTTP connections don't use old technology and, as such, are faster and more reliable.
While you can't choose your technology type, the good news is the majority of FTTN users are be able to upgrade to FTTP. 95% of FTTN users can already request the free upgrade.
Compare NBN 100, NBN 500, and NBN 1000 plans below. NBN 500 and NBN 1000 are only available to those with FTTP and
HFC connection types.
Find your NBN Technology Type
Your address will be used to check against the nbn’s technology type database. It will not be stored by us.
Modems for Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
FTTP connections only need a router, as the NBN connection box serves as a modem. The NBN connection box is installed at a dwelling when FTTP NBN is first connected.
Stand-alone routers are relatively easy to set up and will just need to be plugged into your connection box and a power supply. The vast majority of mesh WiFi devices on the market are just routers, rather than modem-routers. This makes them ideal for use with FTTP.
Modems for Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
FTTN connections require a modem-router, which both connects you to the internet and distributes the connection to other devices. These pieces of hardware are relatively simple to set up, provided that your device is preconfigured; you’ll most likely just need to plug them into a power source and into an existing telephone port in your home.
Many NBN modems are, by default, modem-router combinations. The easiest way to tell is to read the box. If you can see both words ‘modem’ and ‘router’, then boom, you’re good to go.
If you can only find ‘modem’, then you may need to opt for a different modem or buy a router in addition.
In most cases, if you get hardware from your NBN provider, it will be a modem-router. Telstra, Optus, and TPG all give their customers modem-routers, for example.
We're now seeing many providers offer mesh WiFi products like Amazon's popular eero devices. These are only routers. If you plan to use these with an FTTN connection, you'll still need a modem to get online. You can then plug your primary mesh WiFi point into the modem.
NBN plans with a modem included
Most major providers include a free modem, modem-router, or modem within their NBN plans, or at least give you the option to add one on. The catch, however, is that you may need to pay the fee outright or a prorated amount if you choose to leave your plan within a certain timeframe.
Here are the most popular NBN 50 plans from providers where you've got the option for free networking equipment:
The upside of going with a provider modem is that you’re damn near guaranteed for your connection to work off the bat.
You can also read more about what to look for in an NBN modem in our guide here.
Anula Wiwatowska
Offsite Editorial Lead | Instagram
Thousands of internet plans unpacked. All the facts. No surprises.
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