The Quick Version
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) means fibre optic cable runs all the way from the exchange to your home. No copper, no signal degradation, no distance limits on speed. It’s the best NBN technology available.
How FTTP Works
- Fibre optic cable connects the NBN network to your street
- That same fibre runs directly to a box on your wall (the NBN Connection Box)
- You plug your router into this box via ethernet
- You get consistent, fast internet regardless of distance
Unlike FTTN (which relies on old copper for the last stretch), FTTP uses light signals through glass cables the entire way. Light doesn’t degrade over distance like electrical signals do.
The FTTP Equipment
With FTTP, you’ll have:
- NBN Connection Box (NCD/NTD) - Wall-mounted, usually near your power meter
- Power supply - The NBN box needs power
- UNI-D ports - Ethernet ports where you connect your router
- Battery backup (in some units) - Keeps phone services running during blackouts
The NBN box has lights that show connection status. A solid green light usually means everything is working.
FTTP Speed Tiers (Updated September 2025)
FTTP supports all NBN speed tiers, including the fastest. Major upgrades came into effect on 14 September 2025:
| Plan | Download (Pre-Sept 2025) | Download (Now) | Upload |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBN 25 | 25 Mbps | 25 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| NBN 50 | 50 Mbps | 50 Mbps | 20 Mbps |
| NBN 100 | 100 Mbps | 500 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| NBN 250 | 250 Mbps | 750 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| NBN 1000 | 1000 Mbps | 1000 Mbps (min 750) | 50 Mbps |
| NBN 2000 | N/A | 2000 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
This is huge: If you’re on an NBN 100 plan with FTTP, you now get 500 Mbps for the same price. Most providers are automatically upgrading eligible customers.
Unlike other technologies, FTTP actually delivers these speeds consistently. Your distance from the exchange doesn’t matter.
Why FTTP is the Best
Speed consistency: You get what you pay for, reliably.
Future-proof: The fibre itself can handle speeds far beyond what’s currently offered. As NBN upgrades plans, FTTP customers can access them.
Low latency: Great for gaming and video calls.
Reliability: No copper to corrode, fewer faults.
Symmetrical options: Some plans offer equal upload and download speeds.
Do You Have FTTP?
Check the NBN box on your property:
- Look for a box labelled “NBN” on an outside wall
- It may have a fibre optic cable entering it (thin, often orange or green)
- The equipment label should mention “FTTP” or “Fibre”
Or check your address at nbnco.com.au.
FTTP Upgrades
If you don’t have FTTP but want it, NBN Co now offers upgrades in some areas:
- Free upgrades: Some FTTC and FTTN areas are being upgraded for free
- Paid upgrades: “Fibre Connect” program lets you pay for an upgrade
- New developments: Most new housing estates get FTTP
Check with NBN Co or your ISP about upgrade availability.
Common FTTP Questions
Q: Why do I need a router if I have FTTP? The NBN box provides the internet connection, but you still need a router to create your WiFi network and share the connection with devices.
Q: Can I plug directly into the NBN box? Yes, you can connect one device directly via ethernet for testing, but for normal use you’ll want a router.
Q: Does FTTP work during power outages? No - the NBN box needs power. Some have battery backup for phone services, but data requires power.
Official Resources
- NBN Address Checker - Check what technology is available at your address
- NBN FTTP Information - Official NBN FTTP explainer
- Fibre Connect Upgrade Program - Check if you can upgrade to FTTP