nbn™ Fibre to the Building explained (FTTB)

nbn™ FTTB made easy

All types of nbn™ broadband access network connections that utilise a physical line running to the premises are considered Fixed Line connections. An nbn™ Fibre to the Building (FTTB) connection is generally used when we are connecting an apartment block or similar types of buildings to the nbn™ access network. In this scenario we run a fibre optic line to the fibre node in the building’s communications room, and then we use the existing technology in the building to connect to each apartment.

The fibre node is likely to take the form of a secure cabinet in your building’s communications room. Each cabinet will allow the nbn™ access network signal to travel over a fibre optic line, to the existing network technology present in the building.

What to expect on the day of your nbn™ Fibre to the Building installation

This video will show you how to prepare for installation day and make the most of your nbn™ Fibre to the Building (FTTB) connection. 
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nbn™ FTTB Preparing guide
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Power outage information
Talk to your provider about whether your device will work during a blackout when connected to the nbn™ access network.
Find out more
Device compatibility
The rollout of the nbn™ access network will involve new technologies which some existing devices may not be compatible with.
Find out more

Setting up your equipment

To prepare for your new nbn™ powered plan, set up your VDSL2 compatible modem using the instructions given by your provider – this modem should have been supplied by your provider. If you already have a modem, it must be VDSL2 compatible for it to work over the nbn™ access network.

Installation diagram

Have questions?

FTTB services can deliver a range of wholesale speeds to the fibre node in your building’s communication room.

Your actual speeds will be affected by many factors including; your cabling throughout the building, how your provider configures their network and manages traffic (particularly during peak periods when more people are online), equipment quality, software, signal quality, the nbn™ powered plan you choose, the performance of your modem, Wi-Fi, and other devices in your premises.

Read more about understanding speed and how it affects you.

The first step is to check your address to find out if a service over the nbn™ access network is available in your area. If it is, you’ll need to contact your preferred phone or internet provider to enquire about switching to an nbn™ powered plan that suits your needs.

Take a look at our list of providers that may be offering nbn™ services in your area.

The nbn™ access network has been designed to ensure everyone has access to fast broadband, however, the distance of some homes and businesses from the network means that additional work may be required to connect the premises. As a result, small pockets of premises are not able to order a service even though the wider area may be RFS. nbn regrets the delay in having these premises connected.

If your premises is listed as ‘Unserviceable post RFS’, you may initially experience a delay in connecting to services over the nbn™ access network at your premises.  

The Technology Choice Program provides interested parties with the option to pay for a switch to their nbn™ access network technology.
If you’re experiencing any service disruptions, you’ll need to speak with your phone or internet provider. Please note, that in order to maintain any of your legacy copper services (e.g. your existing phone line) you will need to request for ‘voiceband continuity’ with your provider to prevent these services from being cut off when we transition.
We recommend contacting a registered cabler or your phone or internet provider to discuss whether you will need additional cabling and if any additional costs may be associated.

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Although most existing services will be replaced by the nbn™ access network, there are some services that should not be impacted. These include those services provided over non-nbn™ fibre networks, some services in some apartment complexes, and some business and Special Services. nbn strongly recommends you contact your current phone and internet provider as soon as possible to find out if your services are impacted. You can also find out more at nbn.com.au/switchoff.