Category: Technologies · Last updated 27 Sept 2026
Fibre to the Curb (FTTC): what it is and what to expect
How FTTC differs from FTTN and what the small device outside your home does.
Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) is similar to FTTN but pushes the fibre much closer to your home - usually to a small distribution point in the street or footpath right outside your property, sometimes in a pit. Only the very last short stretch uses your existing copper line, which is why FTTC generally performs better and more consistently than FTTN.
What's installed at your home
An nbn Connection Box (on FTTC, sometimes referred to as an NCD, or Network Connection Device) is fitted inside your home, usually near where your phone line enters the building. This requires a technician visit in most cases.
Speed tiers available
Because the copper run is so short, FTTC can usually support higher speed tiers than FTTN, though this still depends on the condition of that final section of copper.
If your nbn Connection Box isn't installed yet, your connection can't go ahead until nbn Co completes that work - see our guide on technician appointments for what to expect.
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