Quick answer: 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.
Landline phone and internet services won’t work if there is a power outage either within the FTTB network or within your premises. Restoring power to your premises with an alternative power option will have no effect if the FTTB network is also experiencing power loss. You should consider keeping a charged mobile phone in case there is a power outage of any sort.
The rollout of the nbn™ access network will involve new technologies which some existing devices may not be compatible with.
Setting up your equipment
To prepare for your new nbn™ powered plan, simply set up your VDSL2 compatible modem. If you have purchased a modem from Australia Broadband, it will compatible with all nbn™ technology types (including FTTB) and will be pre-configured with our Australia Broadband internet settings.
If you are using a BYO modem, it must be VDSL2 compatible for it to work over the nbn™ access network. Visit Can I bring my own modem with Australia Broadband? for more information.
FAQs about FTTB
What speeds can I expect for an FTTB service?
FTTB services can deliver a range of speeds to the fibre node in your building’s communication room.
The actual speed you will experience depends on a number of factors including; how far away your apartment is located from your buildings communication room, the maximum line speed available, your building’s internal cabling, local conditions such as internet traffic, your hardware and software, the data source or destination, software, the plan you choose, the performance of your modem, Wi-Fi, and other devices in your home.
Your nbn™ service can never go faster than the maximum line speed available at your home.
Most homes connected to the nbn™ FTTB network will be initially affected by Co-existence. Co-existence can affect internet speeds on FTTB (and FTTN or FTTC) services due to the interference of different types of DSL technology applied to the same copper cable.
Read more about What is co-existence and why does it affect my internet speed?
We’ll run speed tests to confirm your maximum line speed when your nbn™ service is working and tell you if a different nbn™ plan is more suitable for your home. If you select a plan that you later find does not work for you (or your home), you can change your plan anytime at no charge. We’ll always recommend the right plan for you, even if that means you pay less.
If you select a higher nbn™ speed plan that is more than the maximum available line speed, we’ll move you to a lower speed plan and give you a credit for the difference.
Read more about Internet Speeds
My area is RFS (Ready for Service) but my apartment block/unit is not? What next?
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.
If your premises are listed as ‘Unserviceable post RFS’, you may initially experience a delay in connecting to services over the nbn™ access network at your premises.