FTTP Explained

Here’s everything you need to know about the nbn® FTTP

You’ve probably heard of it, you might even have it – but what is Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP)? And why is FTTP in Australia so popular? Check out our quick guide to the FTTP nbn® connection.

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The meaning of FTTP

Fibre to the premises (FTTP) is a type of internet connectivity that uses fibre optic cables to bring high-speed internet directly to a user’s premises. There are now FTTP plans that connect your house straight to the nbn®, enabling fast internet.

With FTTP technology, the fibre optic cable runs all the way from the internet service provider’s (ISP) central office to the user’s home or business, without any copper or other intermediary cables.

FTTP cables are made of glass fibres and, unlike copper wires, are not electrically conductive. Instead, they carry light generated by lasers at each end.

FTTP v FTTN v FTTC

So how is the FTTP network different to other types of nbn® connection?

Fibre to the node (FTTN) relies on a fibre connection that runs to a mini-exchange or node near your premises. Your property (and others around you) are connected from that node through existing copper wiring.

Fibre to the curb (FTTC) uses a fibre connection almost all the way to your home, taking advantage of the existing copper wiring to complete the connection between your home and the curb.

Why is nbn® FTTP better?

FTTP technology uses fibre optic cables, which are not susceptible to interference from electrical or radio signals, meaning it can offer a more reliable connection than other types of connectivity.

In addition, because the connection runs directly along fibre from the ISP to the premises, without breaking the connection at a separate node or switching to its slower copper predecessor, the FTTP network is also faster.

This means that users with FTTP plans are less likely to experience dropouts, lag or other issues that can affect their internet experience.

And, because the fibre is only servicing your premises, your usage won’t be slowed by your neighbours during peak times.

FTTP is one of the fastest and most reliable types of internet connectivity available, as it can deliver speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) or more, with low latency and high bandwidth. This makes it ideal for streaming high-quality video, online gaming and other bandwidth-intensive applications.

While FTTP is more expensive to deploy than other types of internet connectivity, it offers significant benefits in terms of speed, reliability, and scalability, making it a popular choice for people who require high-speed internet access.

What is an FTTP NTD?

An FTTP NTD (network termination device) is a small box that is installed on the outside of a home or business that has an FTTP nbn® connection.

The nbn® FTTP NTD is used to convert the fibre-optic signal into an Ethernet signal that can be used by devices at the premises to access the internet. The nbn® FTTP box also provides diagnostic features that can help nbn® technicians diagnose and fix any issues with the connection.

Don’t confuse the FTTP NTD box, which facilitates the FTTP connection, with the modem inside your house, which shares the signal with your devices.

FTTP upgrade

Upgrading to an FTTP nbn® connection can be as simple as signing up to a higher speed internet plan. Find out more about the upgrading process here.