Discover how the nbn network can support your businesses. How it works, how fast it is, and how it can help power your business operations.
The nbn network is Australia's national broadband network. It’s managed by nbn co limited, a Government Business Enterprise set up to design, build and operate a wholesale broadband access network.
The nbn network offers fast, reliable internet connectivity. Over 12 million Australian homes and businesses can connect to the nbn network. It’s one of the main ways small businesses connect to the internet in Australia.
The nbn network is a national wholesale broadband access network. The two key terms here are wholesale and access.
Wholesale means retail service providers, like Telstra, use the nbn network to offer internet services to their customers – consumers and businesses. nbn does not sell services directly to end users.
The nbn network is an access network which means it’s only part of the way you get the internet at your premises. While you don’t need to worry about this on a day-to-day basis, it’s important to understand what nbn co limited is responsible for versus what your chosen service provider manages.
You buy an nbn service from a service provider rather than from nbn co limited. Your service provider is responsible for several things that can affect your internet experience. These may include:
Your service provider is also your first contact if you have issues with your internet service.
The nbn network uses several different technologies. If you’re considering an upgrade to your internet, opening new locations, or moving premises it’s worth understanding the different nbn access types. The technology type that is available at your premises can affect the speed and consistency of your internet service.
The majority of the nbn network uses fibre-based technologies. Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial (HFC) uses a combination of fibre optic cables and coaxial cables. Fibre to the Node (FTTN), Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) and Fibre to the Building (FTTB) use a mix of fibre optic cables and other wiring such as copper.
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), also called ‘full fibre’ by nbn n co limited, uses optical fibre all the way to your premises. FTTP is generally said to be the highest performing nbn connection type. This is because fibre can handle higher data speeds and offers greater reliability. The copper wiring used in other nbn technology types can limit the potential speeds you can expect to receive.
You can learn more about these types of nbn technologies by reading FTTP vs FTTN vs FTTC – What’s best for your business?
Fixed wireless services deliver internet connectivity over mobile networks.
Businesses in regional and remote Australia can also access the internet via satellite services.
Internet speeds are measured in megabits per second (Mbps). You’ll see internet plans show the Mbps for both download and upload speeds.
Download speed is how fast data can be transferred from the internet to your computer. The higher the download speed, the faster you can download files, watch videos, and browse the web.
Upload speed is how fast data can be transferred from your computer to the internet. It's also measured in Mbps. The higher the upload speed, the faster you can upload files, send emails, and make video calls.
Explore how fast upload speeds can help boost your business productivity.
The nbn network offers several speed tiers. Typical business plan speeds range from 50Mbps download, 17Mbps upload to 815Mbps download with 320Mbps upload.
The speed available at your premises may depend on the type of connection available. The fastest speeds are only available on FTTP connections.
Discover how high-speed internet can benefit your business.
When choosing the right nbn service for your business, there are several key factors to consider. Not all nbn plans are built the same. Choosing a plan that’s specifically designed for business use can help ensure your internet solutions meets the needs of your business.
Key factors to consider when choosing an nbn plan may include:
Your business use needs may depend on the number of people who will be using the internet connection and what they’ll be using it for. If you have multiple business premises, think about each one in turn. A higher speed service may be useful at your main site, while a lower speed service may suffice in another site.
Discover tips on how to choose an nbn internet plan for your business.
Connecting your business to the nbn network with Telstra is easy.
Check what type of nbn access you have at your premises. You can look up what’s available at your address using the address checker on our nbn business internet page.
Once you know what technology is available at your address, you can choose a plan that suits your requirements.
When you’ve selected your plan, your service provider will liaise with nbn co limited to connect your service.
Explore how to choose an nbn plan for your business internet.
The process of getting connected will depend on the existing connection type at your site.
For example, a technician representing nbn co limited will need to visit your premises if the nbn network isn’t already at your address. This is also the case if you are upgrading a FTTC or FTTN connection to FTTP. Likewise, if your business is in an area where you need fixed wireless, a technician will need to install a receiver on the property.
Once you place an order with your service provider, they will arrange a nbn installation appointment.
If your premises are already connected with your chosen technology, your service provider will let you know when your service is ready. Then, you can set up your modem yourself.
Once the technician has activated your nbn service, it's time to set up your modem and connect to the nbn network.
If you choose a Telstra Business nbn plan, you can install the Telstra Smart Modem yourself using the easy self-install kit included. Or you can get support from our tech experts for a one-off fee.
Telstra’s Smart Modem on a Telstra business internet plan has the added benefit of 4G backup. This helps minimise disruptions when there’s a fixed-line outage as you can switch to uncapped and unshaped 4G mobile broadband backup. This means there is no limit on data allowance or speed, and it's included in the plan, so you don't have to worry about additional charges.
Learn the difference between modem vs router.
Generally, there is no charge for nbn installation. However, nbn co limited may charge a connection fee if additional wiring, cabling, or equipment is needed to connect your property. This fee may also apply if you move, need extra equipment for your chosen plan speed, have a problem with your connection, or if the property is new.
For newly constructed or reconstructed homes, nbn co limited may charge a connection fee to connect the property to the network.
Most nbn providers don't charge an exit fee when you cancel, but you will need to check to see if you owe any outstanding balance on the supplied modem.
Telstra offers business internet services with flexible terms where you pay month by month.
The nbn network underpins how many Australian businesses connect to the internet. With a wide range of speed tiers and technologies, make sure you consider what’s available and will work best for your business.
As your business evolves, make sure to consider if you need to upgrade your business internet solution to experience the benefits of fast, reliable internet.
If you’re not sure which type of connection is available at your business premises you can find out by using our nbn address checker. And if you’re not sure what type of solution is best for your business, you can book an appointment with our in-store experts to discuss your needs, or request a callback from one of our Telstra Business Technology Centres.
nbn®, nbn co and other nbn® logos and brands are trademarks of nbn co limited and used under licence.
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