NBN Key Facts
This page covers the stuff you should know about NBN connections, required under the ACMA's NBN Consumer Information Standard. Some of it might seem obvious, but we'd rather over-inform than under-inform.
What is the NBN?
The National Broadband Network (NBN) is Australia's wholesale broadband network, built and operated by NBN Co. We (Warp) are a retail service provider (RSP). We buy wholesale access from NBN Co and deliver internet to you. We manage the routing, the support, and the customer experience. NBN Co manages the physical infrastructure.
Technology types
NBN uses different technologies depending on your location. The technology type affects what speeds you can get:
- FTTP (Fibre to the Premises): fibre all the way to your home. Best case scenario. All speed tiers available.
- FTTC (Fibre to the Curb): fibre to a pit near your home, then existing copper for the last stretch. Very good performance, all speed tiers generally available.
- HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial): uses the old pay TV cable network. Good performance, all speed tiers generally available.
- FTTB (Fibre to the Building): fibre to your apartment building, then existing wiring internally. Performance varies depending on internal wiring.
- FTTN (Fibre to the Node): fibre to a street cabinet, then copper to your home. Performance depends heavily on how far you are from the node and the condition of the copper. Higher speed tiers may not be achievable.
You can check your technology type at nbnco.com.au.
Power outages
Your NBN connection will not work during a power outage.
Unlike old copper phone lines, NBN services require power at your premises to operate. This means:
- No internet during a blackout
- No phone service if you use VoIP over NBN
- Medical alarms and security systems connected via NBN will not function
If you have FTTP, NBN Co may have installed a battery backup unit (UPS) during the original installation. This can keep a basic phone service running for a few hours but won't power your internet connection. These batteries have a limited lifespan and need replacing.
If you rely on a phone or internet connection for medical or safety reasons, we strongly recommend having a backup, such as a mobile phone with credit and a charged battery, or a 4G/5G backup service.
Services that may be affected
When you move to NBN, some services that worked on your old copper line may not work, or may need changes:
- Medical alarms: many monitored medical alarms were designed for copper lines and won't work on NBN. Check with your alarm provider.
- EFTPOS terminals: older dial-up terminals won't work. You'll need an IP-based terminal.
- Fax machines: traditional fax over copper won't work. You'll need an internet fax service.
- Back-to-base security alarms: check with your security provider about NBN compatibility.
- Lift/elevator phones: if your building has a lift phone on the copper network, it will need to be reconfigured.
Migration from existing services
When NBN is connected at your address, your existing copper-based phone and internet services will be disconnected, typically 18 months after NBN becomes available in your area. This is managed by NBN Co, not us.
If you're switching from another NBN provider to Warp, the transition is usually seamless with minimal (if any) downtime. We handle the wholesale transfer with NBN Co.
Connection timeframes
- New NBN connection: Typically 5–15 business days, depending on technology type and whether a technician visit is needed
- Transfer from another RSP: Typically 1–2 business days
- Technology change (e.g., FTTN to FTTP upgrade): This is managed by NBN Co and timelines vary
Questions?
- Email: support@warp.net.au
- Phone: 02 4398 7080