Understanding Routers for FTTC, HFC, and FTTP NBN Technologies
Introduction
When you connect to the nbn via Fibre to the Curb (FTTC), Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC), or Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), your setup needs are slightly different than if you had Fibre to the Node (FTTN) or Fibre to the Basement (FTTB). Below is a simple explanation of why these differences matter, and how you can ensure you get the right router for your home or business.
FTTC (Fibre to the Curb)
- What it is: With FTTC, fibre runs all the way to a small pit near the street, and then the connection is delivered to your property via copper.
- Equipment: Usually, NBN Co provides a connection box that plugs into the phone socket. You then attach a standard router (with a WAN/Ethernet port) to that box.
- Router requirement: No built-in VDSL is needed. A standard router with an Ethernet WAN port is all you need.
HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial)
- What it is: HFC uses the same type of coaxial cable that was traditionally used for pay TV.
- Equipment: NBN Co supplies a cable modem (often referred to as the NBN Connection Box) which you plug into the coaxial wall socket. You then connect any standard router (with a WAN/Ethernet port) to the NBN cable modem.
- Router requirement: No built-in VDSL is needed. Like with FTTC, a normal router with an Ethernet WAN port works perfectly.
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)
- What it is: FTTP brings fibre optic cabling directly into your building.
- Equipment: NBN Co provides an Optical Network Terminal (ONT), which typically has an Ethernet port for you to connect your own router.
- Router requirement: No built-in VDSL is needed. As with HFC and FTTC, a standard router with a WAN/Ethernet port will do the job.
Reusing Your Existing Modem
In most cases, if you already have a modem from another provider, 9 out of 10 times we can help you reconfigure it to work with FibreMax. Simply give our support center a call, and we’ll guide you step by step to get connected.
If you prefer to purchase a new router, we have FibreMax-optimised models for FTTC, HFC, and FTTP available on our website. If you’re unsure what equipment you need, call our support center any time—we’ll be happy to help you choose the right device and walk you through the setup process.