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FTTC: The new NBN technology

The NBN™ landscape continues to see exciting changes with a brand new technology joining the mix: Fibre to the Curb (FTTC). Why is it spelled that way, you ask? Here’s the answer straight from NBN Co’s blog:

If you’re wondering why we went with “FTTC”, instead of adopting the Australian spelling of “Kerb”, this is because the term “FTTC” (US spelling of “Curb”) is already a globally-understood acronym with its own definition.

But enough about spelling – iiNet are the only major ISP to sell residential NBN™ plans across every type of NBN™ technology and NBN™ FTTC is no exception. If checking availability on our website shows that NBN™ FTTC is available at your address, have a read of this article to get the lowdown on how NBN™ FTTC works. We can help answer any questions you may have about getting connected.

Which plans and speeds are available?

NBN™ FTTC will be available on the same plans as other NBN™ Fibre technologies, which we currently sell on NBN Co’s Basic, Standard Plus and Premium speed tiers. You can read all about the typical download speeds and the different factors which can affect the speeds you experience in our article, NBN™ Speeds Explained.

You can view available plans on our website but keep in mind that you must check your address first to see which type of  NBN™ you can get at your address.

Who can get NBN™ FTTC?

You can check your address on our website to see which type of NBN™ is available at your address. Here’s some things to keep in mind:

  • If you’re already on the NBN™, the release of a different NBN™ technology won’t affect you.
  • NBNCo aren’t building multiple networks in the same area – one address will be able to receive one type of NBN™ technology.
  • The NBN™ is a network built by NBNCo, a government-owned company.
  •  iiNet and other retail service providers aren’t involved in building the NBN™ infrastructure so we don’t get to decide which areas can receive which technology.

How does it work?

With FTTC, fibre optic cable will lead to a Distribution Point in a pit or on a pole near the kerb (or ‘curb’) in your street. From there, copper cabling will connect to a wall socket inside your premises. In multi-dwelling units such as apartment complexes, this copper cabling may first pass through the building’s Main Distribution Frame (MDF), typically in the basement or in a locked telecommunications cabinet. In short, fibre goes all the way to a point near your kerb and then copper runs to your home.

This technology is very similar to NBN™ Fibre to the Node (FTTN) with one key difference: a shorter length for the copper cable. One FTTC Distribution Point connects up to four premises to the network, so they’re positioned much closer to the premises they’re connecting than a typical Node. The length and quality of copper cable used in network infrastructure has a significant impact on the speeds you experience so the shorter, the better.

nbnfttcoutdoor

What kind of NBN equipment is required?

If your home doesn’t already have an NBN™ FTTC connection (as will be the case with many households in the early stages) then you’ll also need an NBN™ Connection Device (NCD) at no additional cost. This may be delivered along with your iiNet modem or in cases where an NBN™ installer must visit your address to get you connected, they’ll bring an NCD along with them. The NCD remains the property of NBN Co and should not be removed from the premises once it’s ‘installed’, although we use that term loosely because ‘installing’ it is as easy as plugging it into your wall and power sockets.

From there, there’s just one Ethernet port which you’ll need to plug your iiNet modem into. Modem configuration is usually automatic as soon as your NBN™ service is activated, so getting set up is a breeze!

nbnfttcindoor

One important thing to note, which you’ll also see on warning labels on the NCD itself, is that plugging in the NCD will cause any legacy phone/broadband services on that same copper line to be disconnected. This is a necessary step as both services cannot exist simultaneously on the same line, so make sure you’ve arranged for all of your phone/broadband services to be switched over to the NBN™ before you plug in the NCD.

Will I need a certain modem?

Yes. Just like iiNet NBN™ HFC, you must use the modem supplied by us with your iiNet NBN™ FTTC connection, otherwise your internet and NBN™ Phone services may not work as expected. We currently use the TG-789 Broadband Gateway for NBN™ FTTC which has a purchase price of $0 on a 24-month contract or $89 on a no lock-in contract ($10 delivery fee applies). The TG-789 has four 1-Gigabit Ethernet ports plus the latest dual-band AC/N WiFi so you can connect all of your home devices with ease.

The connection to the NCD must be through the modem we supply. However, if you have a different WiFi router that you want to use instead, you may connect it to the TG-789 via Ethernet cable so you can have you WiFi signal broadcast by your preferred device. This is known as ‘bridging’ but it’s important to note that while bridging, your TG-789 will not be able to broadcast its own WiFi or be used for your NBN Phone (VoIP) service.

Want to learn more?

We’re here to help you get connected to quality NBN™ services on a plan with great value. If you still have any questions about NBN™ FTTC before you make the switch, just leave a comment below or call us on 13 19 17 and we’ll be happy to help.

Check your address today!

175 comments

  1. Lance Watson says:

    Hi guys are they really going to pull fibre cable through the suburbs. Are we really going to get Fibre to the Curb. That would be fantastic. Cannot see it really happening but love to be proved wrong.

  2. Alan Wickenton says:

    It is too complicated for me . Just tell me how I can continue to have the internet setup and speeds I have now AND the phone service I have now without any stuffing around. All I am hearing these days are stories from friends who have been having problems changing over.Thank you.

  3. Dave Wood says:

    We will leave our connection until the very last minute as 5G may be available before we have access to the NBN. A lot of feed back is very negative on the benefits of NBN as being slower than stated and advertised and very unreliable connections. Also there is no information as to the householder being able to put in a fibre optical connection from the node.

  4. Hugh says:

    Hello. This article mentions that you must use the modem supplied by iiNet. Could you please elaborate on the reason for that? I would have thought my Netgear D7800 Nighthawk would be compatible. I have a separate ATA for VOIP so having it built-in the modem is not a requirement for me. Thanks.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Hugh,

      One of the reasons for this is that our hardware is already whitelisted with NBN, meaning that their network will recognise the hardware and allow it access. Using non-whitelisted hardware will cause NBN to lock the connection, stopping all access.
      As an aside, using our hardware also means that staff will support it, so should any issues arise, they’ll be able to step in and lend a hand.

      – Leo

  5. Charlie says:

    Use of copper with fiber optic is to save cost hence speeds not coming up to expectations – it’s called spoiling the ship for a halfpenny of tare!

  6. Karen Vaughan says:

    Not until it is fibre to the premises- no aging copper connection ever!

  7. Don’t understand why I keep getting your NBN mailouts: (1) I’m on HFC Cable, and (2) I unsubscribed.
    Is it mandatory to get ’em, then ?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Margaret-Rose,

      That’s strange to hear you’re getting NBN material if you’re in a HFC enabled area. Could you shoot some more information such as your address and the types of mail you’re getting to me in an email (talw@corporate.iinet.net.au) so I can look into that further?

      – Tal

  8. Harry Gray says:

    What is the point of FTTC to Me I still have 100metres of copper from the street to my home.
    I have fixed wireless at the moment

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Harry,

      Since you’re already on an NBN connection there’d be no addition of FTTC to your address.

      – Tal

  9. Lloyd Jones says:

    Ironically I have complained about getting a download speed of 24Mbs on a 50Mbs firbre to the node NBN contract connection through iinet and was told the problem was the fact that my home is 1100metres from the nearest node. Would fibre to the curb enhance my NBN speed? I have been an iinet customer for 12 and a half years what would fibre to the curb cost me.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Lloyd,

      Sadly, it isn’t possible to upgrade to FTTC from another NBN connection type at this time, so our efforts here are berst centered around improving the current connection that you have.

      – Leo

  10. Ian McLeod says:

    Why can only the supplied modem be used?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Ian,

      Access to included products such as VoIP can only be accessed through the supplied equipment and supported by our team. If you wish to connect your own modem there may be issues getting it configured and you will not be able to use the included VoIP service.

      – Tal

  11. Brian Murphy says:

    I have a Safety Link Alarm for my medical problems. How does the NBN affect this and what can I expect with drop outs and power failure?

  12. Fritz Schuhmacher says:

    I just had FTTN installed this month and am on an 2year plan. What do I have to do to get FTTC now and what are the costs. You already supplied me with the TG789 modem as part of the two year plan.

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Fritz,

      FTTC is not replacing existing FTTN at this stage so there’d be no means of getting FTTC in lieu of it if it’s already active in your area.

      – Tal

  13. Jane says:

    I wonder how this new fttc will affect people with emf (electrical magnetic frequencies) sensitivities?

  14. Lorraine Hegyi says:

    Copper to the house, regardless of its length, is like running an 8 laned highway into a single lane street. It will always be a speed inhibitor. FTTP, is the only thing that makes sense.

  15. Doug Cooper says:

    We are already connected to the NBN via our Foxtel cable. Is FTTC going to replace this system and if so will it cost more and will it provide better speeds??

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Doug,

      FTTC is not replacing existing NBN connections at this stage so there’d be no means of getting FTTC in lieu of the network type already active at your address.

      – Tal

  16. Ian_AW says:

    The excuse given for using FTTC over FTTK does not stand up. It is a bit like the misuse of premise instead of premises even for a single premises.

    I’m just waiting for someone to make a mistake when reading a construction because you see, T.O.C. is for “Top Of Concrete”, and T.O.K. is “Top of Kerb”. You would not want to get that mixed up, now would you!

    That aside, who can get FTTC (that stings)? Can someone on FTTN now get it?

    The other thing is will iiNet disclose the VoIP settings for their VoIP offering or will users only be able to use that service as long as they use the iiNet supplied equipment?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Ian_AW,

      Best to check your availability for FTTC using the site via the link at the bottom of this article. If FTTC is coming to your address, an option to pre-order will be presented.

      VoIP configuration and registration is only possible through the supplied equipment due to network configuration. We would not be able to provide details to allow registration on secondary ATAs, applications or routers.

      – Tal

  17. Michael says:

    This article says that bridging will mean the TG-789 modem will not be able to broadcast its own WiFi or be used for your NBN Phone (VoIP) service.

    I have a FTTN connection, If I was to set up Google Wifi (mesh) for bridging would this mean I cant use my iinet NBN VOIP service?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Michael,

      Provided the supplied equipment is still handling the authentication and registering of networks you will still be able to use the VoIP service via the phone ports in the back on the equipment. A soon as you hand that over to another device via bridging you’d lose the registration of the VoIP as well.

      – Tal

  18. Bruce Humphreys says:

    I’m connected to the NBN50(IINET) in [REDACTED].
    We only achieve 36MBS download and about 12MBS upload.
    The Copper network from the NODE is attrocious and we have been complaining for five years because every winter the old TELSTRA Ducts flood with water.
    When are we getting FTTC in [REDACTED]

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Bruce,

      Sorry to hear that, sounds like there could be room for further improvement and repair to the legacy infrastructure in your area. As you’re already on an NBN connection there’d be no change to FTTC and it’s better to speak to us as your service provider about reporting any persistent fault that occurs at the time of any disruption to have it resolved by the network provider.

      – Tal

  19. Shane Wharton says:

    Can you get a fibre run into the premises if desired with FTTC?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Shane,

      The short answer on this one would be no. NBN would roll out the network as planned for any network footprint in the area. Any further adjustment would only be possible past the network boundary and any issues would best be addressed by your chosen service provider.

      – Tal

  20. Stanley Richey says:

    I live in Scott Place, Baulkham Hills with my
    old landline home phone connected via Optus fibre, as was my internet before I changed over to Iinet.

    Truthfully I was hoping I wouldn’t have to do anything, but would like you to tell me what I’m being forced to do in order to remain connected via my old phone and Iinet internet, now that NBN is cutting in.

    Regards and thanks for this chance to find out,

    Stan

  21. Martin kalkman says:

    is fibre to the curb eventually going to replace fibre to the node

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Martin,

      FTTC is a new technology added to the MTM and planned network rollouts have been revised accordingly with our own checker updated as well. At this stage there does not appear to be any immediate plan to replace the existing FTTN network.

      – Tal

  22. peter says:

    Seriously you need to clarify what type of connection we are supposed to be offered, one minute its FTTC the next its FTTN – I would be excited about FTTC – as for FTTN – yawn – who cares !

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hey Peter,

      The type of connection will vary based on your address and the chosen rollout in your area. Best to check out your availability on our site and pre-order if it’s coming to you and your area. If you need a hand with this feel free to let us know here or give us a call on 13 19 17.

      – Tal

  23. Doug Bissell says:

    I am interested in the FTTC upgrade on my current plan. What is the cost, when can it happen and what do I have to do to iniate the process

    [REDACTED]

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Doug,

      Based on the address provided that we’ve edited out for privacy it looks like FTTN is already active and available in your area. FTTC is not an upgrade to existing FTTN but an alternative technology added to the MTM rollout of the NBN.

      – Tal

  24. Brad Chapman says:

    Seriously, ‘we just had to copy the Yanks’ is such an infernal cop-out from Australian freedom of thought. FTTK would have been legitimate and meaningful. Now, the real issue is SO Close…to FTTP best practice which my suburb fortunately flopped over the line to receive before political white-anting began. Apartment buildings should get distribution points on each floor to allow 1:4 standard to be true otherwise extensive Cu cable is by definition a less than standard service…

  25. RuthT says:

    So … if I switch to FTTC will I still have VOIP?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Ruth,

      Absolutely, as mentioned plans will remain the same meaning VoIP is still included with varying call inclusions based on the plan selected.

      – Tal

  26. Daryle Branford says:

    If you already have NBN and FTTC is available in your area is there a fee or any increase in price to be connected or is it automatic

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Daryle,

      It would depend on your chosen plan and existing agreements in place. If your address shows as available to pre-order FTTC we would recommend registering for it via our site linked at the bottom of the article so we can look into this with you once it’s ready.

      – Tal

  27. Warren Elliott says:

    Is the FTTC available with our Seniors plan?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hey Warren, we’ll have more details closer to the availability in rollout areas, but yes, we do plan to have FTTC network services included in the available plans on the seniors bundle. – Tal

  28. Brad says:

    I’m wondering why I received an email telling me about the new FTTC when I already have the NBN. I decided to read further and read in the fine print saying when the FTTC is connected the copper & HFC will no longer work.

    I have HFC. Is the NBN replacing my street with FTTC?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Brad,

      We’d recommend checking your address on our site here to see if NBN FTTC is coming to your address. If the availability doesn’t list FTTC then there would be nothing to be concerned about!

      – Tal

  29. Trevor Colelough says:

    I am already a HAPPY Iinet customer on FTTN. Will this FTTC be coming to my street and if so will it change my speed and cost.

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Trevor,

      FTTC is not replacing existing NBN connections already rolled out at this stage.

      – Tal

  30. Ray Lewis says:

    I believe there is a fibre cable running which I think sits in the service pit for the Telstra service for our property. Can you connect to this. Problem is that the last time I looked the Telstra cabling is a “rat’s nest”. Can you connect direct to that cable or will there be a problem?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Ray,

      Depends on the type of connection but it’s worth plugging your address in on our site to see what’s available. Depending on the service type in place would depend on how much of the infrastructure we use.

      By the sounds of things, you’d on an ADSL connection and an upgrade to NBN once available regardless of type would help improve speeds and performance of the connection as well as avoiding any recurring issues resulting from that situation with the lines.

      – Tal

  31. Don says:

    I am already connected to NBN does that mean I have fiber optic to the curb. Address= [REDACTED]?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Don,

      Not likely, FTTC is a new technology added to the MTM NBN rollout and you likely have a FTTP/B/N or HFC service at your premises.

      – Tal

  32. Jack Benny says:

    sick of waiting for NBN, I have gone with vivid wireless over the 4G Network, great speeds, 4 tuimes faster than my ADSL I had, never breaks down, no issues with wet weather, no dodgy rotten copper wire, no dealing with NBN company, unlimited download, can take it with me where ever I go.

  33. Mark Johnstone says:

    Can’t c it happening, that was the first plan with NBN. That was scraped because of the cost.
    I would be willing to pay extra to have this done, should it be available.

  34. Mark Johnstone says:

    The iinet info on the FTTC does not give any info if it’s available to my address. Why ?.
    It say’s it does ?.

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Mark,

      Best place to check for availability is on our site here. If FTTC is available you’ll be prompted to register your interest or pre-order so we can get you connected as soon as it’s available to be connected.

      – Tal

  35. tom says:

    I am surprised that my NETGEAR router needs to be connected to the TG-789 router to work.

    Tom

  36. Jason Howe says:

    I have to wonder why bother investing what is as scaled down version of the same technology as FTTN..

    bigger question is this going to support up to 10gb wan..

    I’m in a block of nine units currently served by FTTN

    and already know of the pitfalls of vdsl without pstn signal..

    I doubt the vdsl modems are going to be capable of 1gb or 10gb in the future, I already see a bit over the speed by default according to the modems stat page..

    Bigger question when are you going to move to FTTP where you could offer the likes of 100gb for the same price of 100/40today..

    this is a pure waste of money only to rip it out in less than 5 years..

    if you are going to provide this service to me as a replacement to current fttn model I expect a lan from the mdf no less

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Jason,

      Thanks for your thoughts!

      Ultimately, as an RSP, we have no control over the NBN rollout and the product mix as this is dictated by NBN themselves. We do aim to provide the best service possible!

      – Leo

  37. Rob Gee says:

    This still might not be any better than the current FTTN that most of us have been lumped with – depending on where your nearest “distribution point” is, that might well be down the OTHER end of the street – here that would still be over a Km away …
    The NBN should be straining at the gates to provide EVERY customers premises with genuine FTTH access, if not for now, then to save the billions of dollars it will cost to do this in the future. I just cannot see any sense in installing FTTN (or FTTC for that matter), and then coming back over that exact same pathway, to later instal the rest of the fibre to do a PROPER job of it … Think of the money that is going to be WASTED doing that …

  38. Lorraine BARTELS says:

    I am on FTTN through you , previously ADSL through you…… I only changed to NBN FTTN in Feb of this year…… some teething problems! How do I change to FTTC?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Lorraine,

      FTTC isn’t replacing existing activated NBN services meaning there is no ‘upgrade’ possible at this stage on the service type already active at your address.

      – Tal

  39. Bill Cherry says:

    Do we wait to connect to NBN until we have theFTTC Installed in our home
    And how do we know when FTTC IS availiable, and the final date of the cut off.

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Bill,

      NBN installation comes as part of the activation process once it’s available in your area. We’d suggest checking your availability on our site to see if NBN is already available under existing rollout types. If so, you’d have a limited time before the closure of the old network before an NBN connection would be needed. https://www.iinet.net.au/internet-products/broadband/nbn/

      – Tal

  40. Henry Mitchell says:

    I already have NBN FTTN – can I change to FTTC?

    If so what’s the advantage of FTTC over FTTN?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Henry,

      Short answer at this stage is no, FTTC isn’t replacing the existing and activated NBN rollout areas.

      – Tal

  41. Gary says:

    This sounds like your selling the dream short…..again! Orinally it was supposed to be fibre to the house. That got knocked on the head as the financial blowout occurred. So we were sold on the idea of fibre to the node, now the curb. So what we are really saying is, the industry is reselling what was originally supposed to have been included but now your charging incrementally more the closer you get to the house. Oh and by the way we are still using copper for some of the distance!

    As with the last post let’s see what infrastructure is really delivered and available. If it happens good on you.

  42. Gerry Williams says:

    I am currently on a NBN plan with IInet, can i switch to this new technology?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Gerry,

      The FTTC technology is not replacing existing activated NBN services. This means that an ‘upgrade’ is not possible at this time.

      – Tal

  43. chris says:

    So why didn’t this happen when our NBN was connected last year? The node is literally 20 metres across the road from my house!!

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Chris,

      At that time FTTC would not have been an active technology under the MTM NBN Rollout.

      – Tal

  44. Karen Thomas says:

    OK I don’t understand. When I click on “Check your address” I go to normal NBN plans which I already have “Limitless” so what are the plans for NBN FTTC ? I am on Broadband. Another question I use Explorer and have been told EDGE is faster, is this so ??

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Karen,

      FTTC has been added to the NBN rollout but isn’t coming to every area, no prompt to pre-order would mean your address is either not getting FTTC or is already active on an existing NBN service type. Plans for FTTC connections are the same as our limitless range for FTTP/B and N meaning there’s be none at all if you’re already on one of the existing network types.

      As for Explorer. Each type of internet browser would have its own benefits and drawbacks. We’d suggest looking at each one or even trialling them briefly to see which is right for you. However, Edge would be a more modern and actively supported version of Internet Explorer.

      – Tal

  45. Gordon Love says:

    I’m already on FTTN, how will this FTTC effect me?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Gordon,

      Odds are it won’t affect you unless you move to an area getting FTTC as this won’t replace any existing tech at this stage.

      – Tal

  46. Philip Mah says:

    Why are you telling us this FTTC when we get your FTTN turbo 50 plan going just a month ago.Find that you are not disclosing this FTTC truth to us. Can Iinet change for us now and will you charge additional costs,which are not our faults. Thanks Philip Mah

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Philip,

      FTTC is a new addition to the NBN MTM (Multi Technology Mix) and it is not possible to upgrade from an NBN FTTN service to NBN FTTC at this time.

      – Leo

  47. Mark Soya says:

    I have a pit at the bottom of my driveway. Can’t I have fibre put right through to my home?

  48. Your father says:

    Fiber to the cueb huh so its nearly direct fibre come on nbn tou can do it fibre to the premises lmao

  49. Abderrezak says:

    So much talk about NBN and how marvellous it is, but we, in Sheidow Park (Post code: 5158) are still waiting for it to be available… and yet, all the suburbs around us have got it already!!!!

    They said that w have to wait untill the end of 2019… I hope it will be worth the waiting.

  50. Keith says:

    Two years ago I saw fibre to the home being run all over old suburbs in Darwin, as well as to newer suburbs. The process was continuing last year. I can’t see other areas getting less service than the Top End.

  51. Jill Monroe says:

    There should not be a deliver fee for the modem. If I am locking myself into your company for 24mth contract there should be no charge. You have had me as a customer for two yrs. I pay for unlimited and there is no way I would use it so I think you are making enough money from me that the deliver charge should not apply.

  52. Rod says:

    Yes NBN are certainly pulling cable to the curb. At least in our suburb in Wanneroo WA. Can’t wait for it to come thru. Tired of only getting 2.5 to 3.5mps per second. Watching Netflix can be a real pain not to mention Kody.

  53. Pat Norton says:

    I am an existing iinet client using naked broadband system including VOIP home phone and broadband internet. Will FTTC enable me to still use VOIP phone with NBN broadband?

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Pat,

      Absolutely, you’ll be able to keep using VoIP when you upgrade to the NBN and we’ll switch the service to the new service for you.

      – Leo

  54. Dallas Fraser says:

    I appreciate the company keeping us informed however as time fly’s by I am getting annoyed that this whole process has become a circus. All I want from iiNet is the date we will arrive in the 21st century nothing more and nothing less.

  55. Les Mumford says:

    Why is it that when we follow your hotlink “If checking availability on our website shows that NBN™ FTTC is available at your address….” the link mentions nothing about FTTC but just shows your usual NBN plans. Very misleading IInet. BTW, NBN uses similar wording on their site which also leads nowhere FTTC. NOT good enough either of you.

    • Gina Thompson says:

      Hi Les, we’re selling the same plans across all NBN Fibre technologies – FTTP, FTTN, FTTB, HFC and FTTC. The only NBN technologies that have different plans are NBN Wireless and Satellite.

  56. susan hunt says:

    so when will be available and how much

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Susan,

      Plans follow the same as our existing range of fixed line NBN services. Availability depends on the deployment and rollout by NBN, but if your address is planned for FTTC, you can pre-order the service via our website here.

      – Tal

  57. Mr G. says:

    Fibre is out the front of our house in Bayswater (WA). Watched them pulling it in over the past few months and spoke to the tech doing the terminations. We will be on shortly. Which is great because my current speed – being at the longest length from the exhange for DSL2 – is about 2Mbits/sec peak. As long as it doesn’t drop out… all the time… 🙂

  58. Sajjad Haider says:

    Hi, I’m so amazed seeing this latest technology mix rolling out fast to the Australian suburbs for a wonderful experience of internet speed and services to their doorstep!! Good luck with everything iiNet!!

  59. Sajjad Haider says:

    All good!!

  60. David Spencer says:

    I too would like to know this answer please. If this is going to happen I expect we would need to wait more years as we are already FTTN connected.
    Any advice please iiNet?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi David,

      FTTC is a new rollout type, this will not be replacing existing areas already activated on NBN connections.

      – Tal

  61. Rick Niland says:

    Fibre to the curb will be an improvement over fibre to the node (unless you happen to be living right next to the node I suppose).
    However I would ask, does the NBN distribution point only provide for fibre optic in and copper out? I would seem better if there was an option to have fibre out then a consumer could opt to have (and pay for) fibre to their premises if they wanted to.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Rick,

      FTTC is indeed fibre in, copper out. There is no option to upgrade past this at the moment.

      – Leo

  62. DEan says:

    When will FTTC be available at 9 Elsa Wilson Drive Buderim?
    I’m already an iiNet FTTB customer.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Dean,

      NBN FTTC won’t be a replacement for NBN FTTN/B nor is it possible to upgrade at this time, so your NBN FTTB stays as it is.

      – Leo

  63. Doug Borrett says:

    Who knows, your guess is as good as mine.

  64. Sally Mort says:

    Will we be getting new copper wires? My current ones are obviously not working properly as my download speed is 1mbps yes ONE!!) on a good day! You can imagine the frustration this has caused.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Sally,

      It isn’t possible to upgrade from a current NBN service to FTTC. Instead, we’re much better off focusing on your current connection and trying to fix this! We do recommend having a chat to Support as those speeds are far too low.

      – Leo

  65. dave steele says:

    that’s what NBN is all about high speed fibre optic cable, where it all falls flat on its face is once it reaches the copper wire at the kerb it will bottleneck and slow down dramatically losing much of the high speed gains of FOC,
    “WHY” simply put copper wire cannot match the high speed carry capacity of fibre optic cable.

    I understand NBN has been instructed to fix this problem before installing anymore new lines.

    I was told this will delay any new NBN installation by many months.

  66. Trevor Robinson says:

    We are interested in the NBN FTTC, alway a good idea to reduce the length of copper. We live in a development of 19 townhouses which uses an MDF at the gate. Would this technology be available to us, I’m assume a feasiblity study would have to be undertaken.

  67. Andy says:

    i understood that we already have fibre to the premises.
    What advantages would FTTC offer us. I do not understand.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Andy,

      In your case, FTTP (Fibre To The Premises) will not be replaced by FTTC so you are just fine where you are.

      – Leo

  68. Mike says:

    @ Lance…
    The network builder put out a short statement at 10.30pm prior to the Easter long weekend confirming “around 1000” premises could now order a FTTC service.

    The premises are in Coburg in Victoria – a known test site for construction techniques as well as the first retail services – and Miranda, a Sutherland Shire suburb in Sydney’s far south.

  69. Margaret Randall says:

    Why not just connect fibre to the house, and do away with what copper cable still exists to the property which is already connected via fibre to the node? That copper cable can then be sold and used else where. For customers such as ourselves whose house is already wired with Cat 5 Cable it would be easy.

  70. Craig says:

    Yup, NBN are pulling fibre through Bedford ready for FTTC!

  71. Bruce campbell says:

    As I told you before we now live in SCOTLAND!!!!!

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hey Bruce,

      If you’ve moved overseas but are still getting our automatic email notifications and newsletters, you can unsubscribe via the link included at the bottom of each email.

      – Tal

  72. Chris says:

    How is this new?

  73. John says:

    I live in the 2nd Units of 3 Units. I have rotten twisted pairs and I believe only 1 pair in serviceable condition. Will you be replacing these now low quality cables?

  74. Graham says:

    I don’t know why we need to acquiesce to some other place around the world. Surely our Australian network has anything to do with anyone else, so we should keep the Australian spelling. Knowing that this is already being used somewhere else shows how very slow we are here adapting new technology

  75. Hemayet says:

    This article does not clearly explain the apartment building situation. I live in an apartment complex. As this article explains, FTTC will bring fibre to the CURBE and then to a distribution point and then it will connect the apartment building using the existing underground copper line that connects up to the Telstra telephone distribution box at the building. Whereas, FTTB is supposed to connect the Telstra telephone box at the apartment building with Fibre. So, FTTB is better than FTTC.

  76. We had nothing but trouble on the old system as we were on a R.I.M (Remote Interface Module).
    This is just that, a shared optic fibre from the Node to the Curb (I thought the Americans spoke English) and then yet again copper cable. At least let me use Cat 5e.

  77. Gediz Mehmet says:

    Hi currently am linked with Optusnet Cable unlimited for internet.
    İf i wish to change to your FTTC What changed are
    necessary. What will the speed and cost of this setup for
    me.
    Are there any other alternertives you have to offer.

  78. Tony Millward says:

    I’m sorry but I don’t believe that FTTC will do the job as we were promised….

  79. Earle Jensen says:

    I have a brand new NETGEAR NIGHTHAWK D7000-AC1900 ROUTER, Can I not use that for NBN FTTC and VOIP Phone instead of your included TG-789 Broadband Gateway for NBN. ?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Hi Earle,

      We would not be in a position to support the setup of the third-party equipment and the VoIP aspect would not work without our own hardware due to network configuration and remote authentication settings.

      – Tal

  80. NIck says:

    I would like to know the same as Lance. I am pretty skeptical about them doing that after seeing the head honcho from NBN on television saying it will cost $10,000 per household to take it from the node to the curb. Can you let us know more info on this blog please?

  81. Peter Whitehouse says:

    Please investigate whether FTTC could be installed at Bolton Court FLAGSTAFF HILL South Australia.
    Currently there is FTTN in the rest of Bolton Court but our little group of houses at are all still on copper ADSL with no idea when this may change.
    Sounds like an ideal site for FTTC!

  82. John Jeffrey says:

    Hi
    I’m already signed up with an NBN connection with IINET.

    What do I need to do to get FTTC…?

    Thanks
    John Jeffrey

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi John!

      We’ve moderated your post, just to preserve your privacy.

      As you already have an NBN service, your current connection will stay as it, as there’s no option to upgrade to NBN FTTC at this time.

      – Leo

  83. Andrew says:

    Hey guys I have FTTN now and the node is about 100 m away from my house
    What would be the cost to get FTTC

    thanks in advance

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Andrew!

      As you already have FTTN, you’ll stay on the same connection as it is currently not possible to upgrade to FTTC.

      – Leo

  84. MD & FM Rose says:

    I don’t understand any of the above. All we want is a “system” that provides the same features of our existing system ie internet,e-mail, phone land line, the ability to make phone calls to other land line phones{both local and interstate} and to mobiles within Australia and Skype.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi MD & FM,

      This is an understandable sentiment and the NBN is designed to be able to fulfill your requirements. Realistically, the core changes is the elimination of the landline, with it being converted to data use, depending on the NBN type you connect to. Your phone becomes a VoIP service, allowing you to make and receive calls like you did before (your phone just plugs into the modem instead of the phone socket). Your internet connection moves to the NBN but still allows the same activities as you do now.

      – Leo

  85. David says:

    What is the difference HFC and FTTC?

  86. jon faux says:

    I dont understand the rationale of why copper at the end of a fibre Connection, the speed of the connection will be determined by the copper cable, I’m currently installing FTTP in a world first gigabit project and the only reason I can see for FTTC is nothing more than a cost cutting exercise

  87. Kenneth says:

    I’m yet to be convinced the difference in Up and Down Transmission rate comparing FTTH and FFTC. I had FTTH when I lived in Melbourne suburb. But in ACT is a joke we don’t seem to have FTTH but lots of ADSL2+
    Cost benefit from moving from ADSL2+ to FTTC (which does the job for most data rates ) is yet to be proven during peak times. Even HFC which was better up and download rates got pulled out when it was working better than FTTH !
    So iiNet and all ISP needs to prove this in practical peak usage periods

  88. Andre says:

    My internet is via Foxtel cable as part of a Telstra package. Will I be forced to change?

  89. Bruce Humphreys says:

    I have researched FTTC ( and I have a TECNICAL background) ; and the comment from IINET re : Bassendean 6054 FTTN to FTTC not changing the data rate is rubbish.
    I talk to the Telstra/NBN Technicians and the old Telstra Copper Network from the node is a joke . I’ve been shown the Telstra Pits/Ducts and the numerous repairs on a very old delapidated copper network.
    So NBN not offering upgrades to FTTC is a joke on the Australian public and seriously a “third world” solution !
    Cheers
    Bruce

  90. Bruce Humphreys says:

    http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-04-08/nbn-launches-fibre-to-the-curb-technology/9631262

    So it’s confirmed elsewhere that FTTC improves data speeds . Seriously IINET should be lobbying NBN CO and the Government to change the Technology Mix for New and Old Connections to FTTC ONLY .
    Bruce

  91. Terry Hall says:

    Hi. I’m an long term iinet customer in Gooseberry Hill not yet connected to the NBN. Will FTTC be available to me when I am finally forced to sign up to NBN?
    Terry

  92. Margaret Brown says:

    I don’t understand why I got the email about FTTC and when I check my address it says its available, but here you are saying that if I am already on FTTN I can’t get FTTC?

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Margaret,

      That is correct. FTTC is not an upgrade for existing NBN connections and it is not possible to upgrade from FTTN to FTTC at this time. If you’re already on FTTN, you will stay on FTTN.

      – Leo

  93. When you can supply fibre to my house, not FTTC, I will switch over. I had this over 10 years ago in Los Angeles. Sad that Australia is so far behind. In saying that, I have NEVER even received what I pay for (speed wise) with my current set up or when I had BOB in Perth. I run Ookla often and my speeds are ALWAYS slow. Booooooooo. We should not have to pay a bill based upon what is possible, but what is actual.

  94. Shane Wharton says:

    Trying again. If I choose Iinet for my isp when FTTC is available am I able, somehow ( NB you tell me how), to get a fibre run into my premises (at my cost) to replace the existing degraded copper run in? NBN can’t advise me because,wait for it!! . . . The technology is too new!

  95. Not worthy says:

    I feel for you iiNet support staff. How do you soldier on through the relentless repetitive questions? You must be screaming and bashing at your desks when someone who clearly hasn’t bothered to read or investigate any information on NBN complains and blames you for their internet/ignorance. Reading through this comment section has been a painful and frustrating experience. I ended up asking myself why am I still reading this? It’s making me so angry!! I would of been fired quick smart for my smart responses to some of these questions/whinges/finger pointing.
    Soldier on! 🙂

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Awww cheers, Not Worthy!

      Its all part of the job – we’ll continue to do the best we can to assist customers, especially as some of us may not be as up to speed than others, or may have a higher level of anxiety about things. If we can allay any fears, provide help and leave the customer feeling a bit better about their concerns, then we’ll gladly consider that to be a win.

      – Leo

  96. Mark says:

    Hi there guys, any new updates on when IInet will be launching FTTC plans, last I heard was 01/07/2018, my address is ready to connect just waiting for IInet to sell the product.

  97. Michael says:

    I have the TG modem on a FTTN service.

    I’d like further clarification about the paragraph below taken from the above article:

    “However, if you have a different WiFi router that you want to use instead, you may connect it to the TG-789 via Ethernet cable so you can have you WiFi signal broadcast by your preferred device. This is known as ‘bridging’ but it’s important to note that while bridging, your TG-789 will not be able to broadcast its own WiFi or be used for your NBN Phone (VoIP) service.”

    If I set up the Google wifi a Mesh wifi router will I still be able to use my IINET voip phone service as normal with the phone plugged into the TG modem?

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Michael,

      As long as the TG-789 is the primary modem connected and the VoIP is setup on it, with the phone plugged into it, then yes, you will be able to do so.

      – Leo

  98. Neil Colvin says:

    What if I have more then two copper phone lines?

    The TG-789 appears to only support two phone lines.

    When I switch to TFFC (being installed now), and have to switch all my phones to VOIP, how will more then two phone lines be handled?

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hey Neil,

      Great question – the TG789 is really designed for home and small business use, so in most scenarios, its just fine. However, if you need access to multiple lines, then its highly likely that you may need to consider a business solution.

      http://www.iinet.net.au/business

      – Leo

  99. Kevin says:

    In answering existing questions as to why only the supplied modem can be used with FTTC the following answers have been given:

    One of the reasons for this is that our hardware is already whitelisted with NBN, meaning that their network will recognise the hardware and allow it access. Using non-whitelisted hardware will cause NBN to lock the connection, stopping all access.

    –– Leo

    Access to included products such as VoIP can only be accessed through the supplied equipment and supported by our team. If you wish to connect your own modem there may be issues getting it configured and you will not be able to use the included VoIP service.

    –– Tal

    One says you can use your own modem but with no support. The other says using other devices will “lock” the service, rendering it useless.

    It can’t be both.

    I have also been told that the modem’s MAC Address is used to authenticate. Then I have been told that you can also authenticate with a U/N but only if your modem supports VDSL.

    In theory then, you could use your own modem if you change the MAC Address to the one in the supplied modem, and bypass the need for both a VDSL modem, and/or a UN / PW authentication all together.

    I wish ISPs would make this information available but they seem to want to keep this information to themselves.

    Could you please explain this modem/authentication situation clearly and openly with full transparency.?

    • Tal Waterhouse says:

      Thanks for your comment, Kevin.

      We’ve looked into this and gotten a clearer answer to your question and the reason for supplying the modem as a requirement comes down to two reasons.

      The first is that we need to supply equipment that allows functional use of all included aspects of the service, in this case that means VoIP and making sure we supply hardware that is able to provide access to it for making and receiving phone calls. Whether it’s used or not though comes down to each person and their preferences/needs individually.

      The second is that we aren’t able to provide holistic support for the extensive range of equipment and hardware on the market given each comes with distinct interfaces and configuration requirements. Providing a standardised modem ensures our team are familiar with what’s involved in setup as well as prepares us for any required testing involved in lodging a fault should the need arise.

      It doesn’t stop you from acquiring your own modem for setup and use of the service, but not all modems would support the methods we use in getting our customers online using FTTC.

      – Tal

  100. Lee says:

    If I have to use the iiNet supplied FTTC modem, will I have access to its admin page or will that be locked down so only iiNet staff can change settings?

    I certainly would not be confortable with iiNet staff having sole access to the modem on my network, I don’t know what staff could be doing both in work or outside of work & being able to see my local LAN devices, traffic & firewall settings does not sit right with me.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Lee,

      All of our modems are unlocked and you’ll be able to access the admin pages to make any changes needed.You can then secure the modem with your own password and the modem has its own firewall onboard that you can adjust.

      – Leo

  101. Duncan says:

    Why aren’t iiNet offering business connections on FTTC? I am stuck with Optus and their terrible “we don’t give you any VOIP config help” “support”, I am itching to hand you my money, and apparently you guys haven’t got your act together to offer business plans on FTTC? You’re a big ISP, make it happen!

  102. Denton says:

    Leo Yarnold

    Please answer the question about FTTC for business not being provided yet. whats the hold up? if we can’t get soon we may have to consider changing providers as we need the speed of NBN sooner rather than later.

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Denton,

      No updates on Business NBN FTTC as of yet, but as soon as we have more information, we’ll be sure to post it and ensure that our Business customers are aware.

      – Leo

  103. Duncan F says:

    In a reply above by Tal Waterhouse
    July 13, 2018 at 12:42 pm

    Tal states “It doesn’t stop you from acquiring your own modem for setup and use of the service, but not all modems would support the methods we use in getting our customers online using FTTC.”

    Can use please direct me to a page that explains what requirements the modem will need? I spent around $450 upgrading to a modem that was FTTN compatible with a bunch of features I currently use on naked ADSL and would like to know if it’s compatible with FTTC.

    Many Thanks

    • Leo Yarnold says:

      Hi Duncan,

      The connection protocols for FTTN and FTTC are similar. As long as the modem supports the IPoE connection protocol and uses MAC Addresses (it very likely will) then you should be able to use the modem. We’d also suggest referring back to the manufacturer of the modem, as they’ll be able to state if the modem will work with FTTC.

      Finally, a note about non-iiNet modem’s. You’re always welcome to bring your own modem, but please understand that there are literally thousands of modem and hardware combinations out there and its literally impossible for us to support them all. Our Support team will do their very best to help but we can guarantee that we’ll be able to sort out an issue with a non-iiNet modem.

      – Leo

  104. Simmo says:

    I’ve read that it’s possible to get FTTP/FTTB for a price, and I want to find out how much this will be for my address. Possibly thousands, but I can afford it so please tell me how much and how I go about it.

  105. Tim says:

    What an absolute joke. Had ADSL2+ for 5months after a 2 week stuff around for iiNet to set it up. Now today we got the NBN connected as apparently everything was ready to go with no issues for FTTC. Then bam. Issues. No internet at all and been told it’s with the provisioning team? And also got told could be up to 4-5days to resolve currently if there are no further issues. We also NEVER got told there would be such a delay or anything of the sort. iiNet apparently pride themselves on customer support and care. What a load of rubbish!

    • Josh McKenzie says:

      Hi Tim,

      Thanks for the comment. While we make every single effort to ensure that the transition to NBN services go as smoothly as possible, we’re not beyond admitting that there can be unforeseen obstacles that pop up during the transition. It sounds as though the case is in the right hands with our provisioning team in order to get you up and running as soon as possible. If you would like for us to take a closer look and provide some further transparency on the matter, please feel more than welcome to drop us an email with any details to iiOnline@iinet.net.au

      – Joshy

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