What is an nbn® connection box and how do I troubleshoot?
For some internet connections, like FTTP (Fibre to the Premises), HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial) and Fixed Wireless, you’ll need an nbn or Opticomm connection box to get online.
This guide explains what the connection box does and what to check if your internet isn’t working.
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What is an nbn connection box?
An nbn connection box, also called a Network Termination Device (NTD), connects your property to the nbn network. It’s where your internet connection enters your property and links directly to your modem.
If your property is connected via Opticomm, you’ll have a similar connection box called an Opticomm Optical Network Terminal (ONT) device.
What does your nbn connection box do?
- Converts network signals into a format your modem can use
- Connects your internal internet setup to the external network
- Provides a physical connection point for your modem (via ethernet)
- Helps maintain a stable connection and supports the speeds available on your plan.
How do I install my nbn connection box?
An nbn connection box is usually installed for you by an nbn-approved technician, depending on your connection type.
- Technician visit – A technician will install the connection box at your property in a suitable location.
- Power setup – The connection box is connected to a reliable power source.
- Testing and activation – Your connection is tested to make sure everything is working before the appointment is complete.
It’s helpful to know where your connection box is located and how it connects to your modem, as this can affect your Wi‑Fi setup and performance.
Moving home or business?
For FTTP and HFC connections, the connection box is fixed to the property and should stay there when you move out. Your new property will have one already, if not we’ll arrange for someone to come and install one for you.
What happens during an nbn connection box upgrade?
Like most technology, nbn connection boxes are updated over time to support better performance and reliability.
If your area is upgraded to full fibre (FTTP), and you’re moving from FTTN or FTTC, you’ll be provided with a new FTTP connection box as part of the upgrade. If an NTD change is needed for your order, it will be included in the installation process.
From time to time, the network provider (nbn or Opticomm) may contact you directly about upgrading your connection box. For example, nbn has been updating older Fixed Wireless NTDs to improve reliability and support faster speeds.
How do I troubleshoot my nbn connection box?
If your internet isn’t working, there are a few simple checks you can try with your connection box before contacting support.
- Check the power
- Make sure the connection box is switched on
- Check the power cable is securely plugged in at both ends
- Check the lights
- Look at the indicator lights on the box
- Solid or green lights usually mean things are working
- Red or no lights may indicate an issue
- To learn more, go to What do the lights on my nbn connection box mean?
- Check your cables
- Ensure all cables are securely connected
- Check the cable between your connection box and modem/router
- Restart your equipment
- Turn off your connection box and modem/router
- Wait 30 seconds, then turn them back on
- Wait a few minutes for the connection to reset
- Check for an outage
- Check if there’s a known outage in your area using the My Telstra app or Check for outages
Still having issues?
If you’ve tried these steps and your internet still isn’t working, contact us for further help. We can run checks or arrange support if needed.
Frequently asked questions
Different nbn technologies require different types of connection boxes.
- FTTC (Fibre to the Curb) connection box
Also called a Network Connection Device (NCD)- Connects to a standard phone wall socket
- Uses existing copper wiring for the final part of the connection
- Plugs into a power outlet
- Converts fibre-optic signals from the curb into digital subscriber line (DSL) signals for the router
- Provides a single Ethernet port
How to install your nbn Connection Box for nbn FTTC - FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) connection box
Also called an FTTP Network Termination Device- Typically installed inside your property on an internal wall
- Connects directly to the fibre network
- Requires a dedicated power source
- Provides a single Ethernet port
- Supports high-speed plans
Get nbn FTTP upgrad (For eligible services with FTTN or FTTC access technology) - HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial) connection box
- Also called an HFC Network Termination Device
- Connects using a coaxial cable
- Requires a dedicated power source
- Provides a single Ethernet port
- Supports high-speed internet (performance may vary during busy periods)
How to install your nbn Connection Box for nbn HFC
- Fixed Wireless connection box
Also called a Wireless Network Termination Device (WNTD)
For Fixed Wireless, your setup includes both outdoor and indoor equipment.- An outdoor antenna receives the signal from the network
- A cable runs into your property to an indoor connection box
- The connection box plugs into power and connects to your modem
Fixed Wireless antenna types
V1 & V2 – Diamond-shaped. Not compatible with higher-speed plans (100 Mbps and above).
V3 – Rectangular with sharper edges. Widely used but doesn’t support the highest speed tiers (400 Mbps and above).
V4 – Rectangular with rounded edges. Supports the latest Fixed Wireless speeds.
Yes. Your connection box needs to stay powered on for your internet to work.
No. Your connection box is installed for your specific address and shouldn’t be moved or relocated.
Your connection box is typically installed in a convenient spot inside your property, such as:
- A garage or utility room
- A living room or home office
- A hallway cupboard
The connection box is owned and maintained by nbn or Opticomm.
Sometimes. If your upgrade requires different equipment (for example, moving to FTTP), a new connection box will be installed as part of the process.
If you’re having internet issues, it’s worth checking the lights on your connection box.
The Optical light shows the connection between your property and the network:
- Solid or flashing green – your connection is active
- Off or red – the connection box has lost connection with the network, or it may have a fault
To learn more, go to What do the lights on my nbn connection box mean?
- Check the power cable is securely plugged in
- Try a different power outlet
- If there are still no lights, contact support for help.
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