About the NBN
Everything you need to know about Australia's National Broadband Network, from technology types to choosing the right plan for your home.
What is the NBN?
The National Broadband Network (NBN) is Australia's government-funded wholesale broadband network. It's designed to replace the old copper telephone network with modern technology capable of delivering high-speed internet to homes and businesses across Australia.
The NBN network is owned and operated by nbn co limited, a government-owned corporation. However, nbn co doesn't sell directly to consumers. Instead, retail service providers (RSPs) like Telstra, Optus, TPG, and others buy wholesale access to the network and sell NBN plans to customers.
NBN Technology Types
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)
The gold standard of NBN technology. Optical fibre runs directly to your home, providing the fastest and most reliable connection. Supports all speed tiers up to NBN 1000.
Best for: Maximum speeds, future-proof connection, consistent performance
HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial)
Uses the existing pay TV cable network. Fibre runs to a node in your neighbourhood, then coaxial cable connects to your home. Can support up to NBN 1000 in most areas.
Best for: High speeds, good reliability, areas with existing cable
FTTC (Fibre to the Curb)
Fibre runs to a small distribution point near your home (usually in the street), with the existing copper phone line covering the final connection. Typically supports speeds up to NBN 100.
Best for: Good speeds, cost-effective deployment, most households
FTTN (Fibre to the Node)
Fibre runs to a node in your neighbourhood (up to 1km away), with copper phone lines connecting to homes. Speed and reliability depend on distance from the node. Usually supports NBN 25-100.
Best for: Budget plans, areas where better technology isn't available
FTTB (Fibre to the Building)
Similar to FTTN but designed for apartment buildings and units. Fibre runs to the building's communications room, with existing copper used within the building.
Best for: Apartments and multi-dwelling units
Fixed Wireless
Uses radio signals from transmission towers to connect homes in regional and rural areas. Doesn't require physical cables to your property. Typically offers NBN 25-50.
Best for: Regional areas where fixed-line isn't feasible
Satellite (Sky Muster)
Uses satellite technology to provide internet to remote and rural areas where no other NBN technology is available. Has higher latency but provides essential connectivity to isolated areas.
Best for: Remote rural areas with no other options
How Does the NBN Work?
1. Infrastructure
nbn co builds and maintains the physical network infrastructure. This includes fibre optic cables, nodes, towers, and other equipment needed to deliver internet services across Australia.
2. Wholesale
nbn co sells wholesale access to retail service providers (RSPs). These are the companies you know: Telstra, Optus, TPG, Aussie Broadband, and many others.
3. Retail
RSPs create NBN plans with different speeds, data allowances, and prices. They handle customer service, billing, and technical support. This is where you choose your plan and provider.
4. Your Connection
When you sign up for an NBN plan, your chosen provider arranges connection to the nbn network. You receive equipment (usually a modem/router) to connect your devices to the internet.
Benefits of the NBN
Faster Speeds
Much faster than old ADSL connections, with speeds up to 1000 Mbps available.
More Reliable
Modern infrastructure means fewer dropouts and more consistent performance.
Future-Proof
Built to handle increasing internet demands for decades to come.
Multiple Users
Supports multiple devices and users simultaneously without slowdown.
Getting Connected to the NBN
- 1
Check Availability
Verify that NBN is available at your address and which technology type you have.
- 2
Choose a Plan
Compare plans based on speed, price, and features. Consider your household needs.
- 3
Sign Up
Contact your chosen provider and sign up for your selected plan.
- 4
Installation
Depending on your technology type, you may need a technician visit or can self-install.
- 5
Get Online
Connect your modem, follow setup instructions, and start enjoying your NBN connection.