Quick answer: An nbn™ Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) connection is used in circumstances where the existing ‘pay TV’ or cable network can be used to make the final part of the nbn™ access network connection. In this circumstance, an HFC line will be run from the nearest available fibre node to your premises.
HFC connections require an nbn™ access network device to be installed at the point where the line enters your home. This device requires power to operate and can be installed by an approved NBN Co installer.
Landline phone and internet services won’t work if there is a power outage either within the nbn™ HFC network or within your premises. Restoring power to your premises with an alternative power option will have no effect if the nbn™ HFC 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.
nbn™ HFC installation guides
nbn™ HFC installation without Pay TV
nbn™ HFC installation with Pay TV
Setting up your equipment
To prepare for your new nbn™ powered plan, simply set up your nbn™ compatible modem. If you have purchased a modem from Australia Broadband, it will compatible with all nbn™ technology types (including HFC) and will be pre-configured with our Australia Broadband internet settings.
If you are using a BYO modem, it must be nbn™ compatible for it to work over the nbn™ access network. Visit Can I bring my own modem with Australia Broadband? for more information.
Installation with existing pay TV or cable internet service:
FAQs about HFC
What speeds can I expect for an HFC service?
HFC services can deliver speeds up to 100 Mbps.
Actual speeds may be faster or slower than your typical evening speed and will vary due to a number of factors. The actual speed you will experience depends on a number of factors including your access type, demand on the network, local conditions such as internet traffic, your line condition, your hardware and software, the data source or destination and your location which can interfere with reception and speed.
Learn more about Internet Speeds.
What nbn™ equipment will be provided for my HFC connection?
HFC installation requests may require in-home cabling and include multiple devices to be installed inside and outside of your premises. The nbn™ equipment to be installed may include an nbn™ utility box (outside), a coaxial wall outlet (inside), and an nbn™ connection box (inside). Your phone or internet provider will supply a gateway (router/modem) and the Ethernet cable to connect your devices as required.
How do I choose the best location for the nbn™ equipment?
Before your installation appointment, you will need to think about where you want the nbn™ connection box and Power Supply unit to be installed inside (or outside) your house.
Pick the best location using this checklist:
- Reasonably close to a power point.
- A cool, dry, ventilated area (nbn™ equipment cannot be installed in a damp or wet area such as; a kitchen, bathroom, laundry, or under a window that opens).
- Away from busy areas where it may be knocked or damaged.
- Somewhere easy for you to see and check the indicator lights.
- In the same building as the main electric meter box or distribution board (i.e. not in a separate detached garage or outhouse).
Whilst the NBN Co technician will try to accommodate your choice of location, some environmental factors such as complex walls, distance to power sources and proximity and accessibility to the exterior utility box may prevent installation in this location. Try to choose an alternative location if your preferred location is not viable and discuss the options with your allocated NBN Co installer.
How will the HFC connection work with my pay TV service?
If you have a pay TV service that relies on the cable connection, we will ensure that it is also connected to the nbn™ access network by installing a splitter to allow both services to run from one wall outlet without interruption.
How many connections are available over an HFC service?
HFC installations involve an nbn™ utility box outside of your premises, which includes an isolator, a splitter (if more than one HFC connection is required at a premises) and an amplifier (if the premises has three or more outlets). Contact your phone and internet provider to find out if your premises are eligible for multiple HFC connections.