Australian NBN Types

Client Requirements

• A client's location impacts what NBN type they can access.
• NBN is not universally the same; some areas use fibre, others copper phone lines, and some use wireless signals.

NBN Connection Devices

• NBN is Australia's National Broadband Network and internet service.
• Using it requires special devices.
• An NBN Connection Box connects your home to the internet and acts as a middleman between your home and the internet provider.

Understanding NBN Types

• Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) is considered "Full Fibre".
• It is the fastest and most reliable NBN type.
• Fibre-optic cable runs directly to a home, requiring an NBN Connection Box inside the home.
• Best for heavy internet users, gamers, and smart homes.
• FTTP is only available in certain areas, like newer suburbs or upgraded locations.
• An analogy for FTTP is like getting pizza delivered straight to your kitchen table, hot and fresh.
• Fibre to the Node (FTTN) is "Fibre + Copper Phone Line".
• Fibre runs to a cabinet (or node) in your street, then copper phone lines carry the internet to the home.
• FTTN is slower than FTTP because copper lines reduce speed as distance increases.
• FTTN requires a VDSL2 Modem-Router as no NBN Box is provided.
• FTTN is best for suburban homes with basic internet needs.
• A downside of FTTN is slower speeds, especially for those living far from the node.
• The analogy for FTTN is like picking up pizza from a store down the street—still warm but not as fresh.
• Fibre to the Building (FTTB) is the "Best for Apartments".
• Fibre runs to the basement of an apartment building, then copper wires distribute the internet to each unit.
• FTTB is similar to FTTN but within a single building.
• A VDSL2 Modem-Router is required and no NBN Box.
• FTTB is best for apartment residents.
• A downside of FTTB is that speed depends on the quality of the building's internal wiring.
• The analogy for FTTB is like pizza being delivered to the apartment lobby, and you have to go downstairs to get it.
• Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) "Uses Old TV Cables".
• Fibre runs to a nearby node, then coaxial TV cables bring the internet to a home.
• An NBN Connection Box is required.
• HFC is best for houses where FTTP isn't available but a TV cable network exists.
• The downside is that it can slow down during peak hours if usage is high.
• The analogy for HFC is like pizza being delivered using an old-school pizza delivery bike instead of a fast car.

Modems

• A modem connects a home or office to the internet.
• In Australia, modems act as the gateway between a home network and an internet service provider (ISP).
• Many ISPs provide a combination modem-router.

Router

• The router is the central device for internet connectivity and local network management.
• It distributes the internet to devices, like phones, laptops, and smart TVs, using WiFi or Ethernet cables.
• A modem gets the internet from your provider, and a router spreads it.
• Many modern devices are modem-router combos.

Additional Devices

• NBN Connection Devices, like NBN Connection Boxes, are required for use with Australia's NBN internet service.
• VDSL2 Modem-Router is required if you have an NBN type called "Fibre to the Node" (FTTN) or "Fibre to the Building" (FTTB).
• Mesh WiFi System spreads WiFi signal across multiple small routers to give better coverage in a large home with WiFi dead spots.
• A Switch is a device used to connect devices to the network via wired connections, and the number of physical ports dictates the number of connections possible.
• Most SOHO routers contain a built-in switch.
• A Network attached Storage (NAS) server is a special storage device connected to your home or office network.
• A NAS is mainly used for storing and sharing files among multiple users
• It's generally easy to set up and doesnt need deep IT knowledge and does need deep IT knowledge.

Servers

• A server is a full server installed at your location.
• Servers can do more than a NAS, like run applications, databases, websites, and handle complex business tasks.
• Servers need more power, maintenance, and IT skills to manage.
• Cloud services have reduced the need for on-premises servers, but some SOHO environments still use them for file sharing, running location applications, and network management and security.

VOIP

• VOIP phone calls are made over the internet, rather than traditional phone lines.
• Examples include Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp Calls.
• VOIP is usually cheaper than traditional calls and requires a good internet connection.

Network Transmission Media

• Network transmission media is the physical channel used to send data around the network
• Two major categories are wired and wireless.

Wired Media

• Fibre Optic Cables
• Used for high-speed internet connections to connect buildings, ISPs, and data centers.
• They are for long-distance data communication, transmitting data over kilometers with minimal loss.
• Fibre is best for businesses and large networks that require very fast and reliable data transfer, and are used for backbone networks and ISPs to deliver fast internet to homes and businesses.
• Ethernet Cables are for home and office wired networks, and connecting computers, printers, routers, and switches.
• They are used for short to medium-distance wired connections (up to 100 meters), as well as for gaming, streaming, and tasks that need stable interne.
• Ethernet is for local Area Networks (LANs) in schools, offices, and homes.
• Some schools use Ethernet to connect computers to a switch.
• Coaxial Cables are for cable TV and some older broadband internet connections.
• Used for connecting modems to ISP services in some older systems, security camera systems (CCTV), and radio frequency (RF) communication, with some older broadband services using them to bring internet into homes.
• Telephone Cables (RJ11 - DSL Lines)
• Used by DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) internet to provide internet.
• DSL is often used for landline telephones in homes and offices, and for older internet connections until fiber and ethernet became available.
• Example of use is connecting a DSL internet modem to a wall.
• Cat 6a is the best balance of speed, affordability, and future-proofing.
• Cat 5e or Cat 6 is good for basic setups
• Fiber optic is unnecessary unless you need ultra-high speeds over long distances.

Internet access

• Available internet options include ADSL, Cable, and NBN.
• ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) uses copper phone lines to deliver internet.
• it's generally slow speeds compared to newer technologies, and is mostly phased out in Australia in favor of NBN.
• Cable Internet uses coaxial cables to provide internet, and can slow down during peak times.
• It is faster than ADSL.
• It is being replaced by NBN (HFC technology).
• The NBN (National Broadband Network) in "Australia's New Internet Standard" uses different technologies like Fibre, Fixed Wireless, and HFC to connect homes and businesses.
• NBN is generally more reliable and faster than ADSL and Cable
• Different NBN types affect speed (FTTP is best, FTTN is slower).
• 5G Internet is "Superfast Wireless Internet" that uses mobile phone networks to deliver high-speed internet wirelessly.
• It is great for mobile offices or backup internet.
• It is generally limited by coverage and congestion.

Network Protocols

• IP (Internet Protocol) provides the address system of the internet, helping devices find websites.
• TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) ensures reliable data delivery for email and web pages.
• HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol/Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) loads web pages.
• HTTP is for normal websites, while HTTPS is used for secure banking sites.
• IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) receives emails and keeps them synced across devices.
• SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) sends emails and delivers them to the recipient.
• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) assigns IP addresses, automatically giving new devices an internet connection.

Precautions for installing SOHO network

• Environment is important because switches in SOHO networking usually do not come with fans due to noise impact consideration, so should be placed in well-ventilated areas to dissipate heat.
• Consider the router's environment, specifically high humidity or high-temperature, and switch off the harsh effects.
• Equipment compatibility must be ensured, as SOHO equipment should be compatible to ensure efficient operation and data transmission, and avoid human and material resource waste..
• Consider current and future network requirements before installing the small office/home office network.
• A good strategy is to reserve 2 ports for switches and routers.

Knowledge application

• The design of a SOHO network has been requested for a next-generation cyber-cafe that wants to share 5G with gamers.
• The goal is to set up dedicated and cabled workstations for game playing.
• 3-4 member groups should explore options and design a basic network diagram.

Install and configure hardware and software

• Create a detailed installation plan when setting up a SOHO network to ensure the network setup runs smoothly, follows technical requirements, and aligns with company policies.
• Understand the organization needs before making a plan, including:
  • IT Policies & Security - adhere to company rules and cybersecurity measures.
  • Budget & Resources - stay within financial limits when selecting hardware and software.
  • Industry Compliance - meet legal and regulatory standards.
  • Approved Vendors - use preferred suppliers for equipment hardware and services.
  • Project Timeline - meet deadlines and avoid delays. -Minimal Disruption - install the network without affecting daily operations.
• The installation plan should include:
  • Scope of Work – Define what will be installed (hardware, software, network items).
  • Timeline – Plan installation activities to avoid downtime.
  • Resource Allocation – List personnel, equipment, and materials, to ensure standards.
  • Budget – Break down costs while staying within financial limits. Risk Assessment – Identify potential issues to prevent and manage.
  • Testing & Validation – Define testing post-installation.
  • Documentation – Keep records of the installation and final configuration.
  • Training Plan – Include necessary training for staff.
  • Maintenance & Support – Outline ongoing network support.
• Consider key organizational factors to ensure smooth operation, including:
• Security Policies – Include protections like firewalls, encryption, and access.
• Data Management – Plan how data will be handled and backed up.
• Compatibility – Make sure new hardware and software work with existing systems.
• Scalability – Ensure the network can grow with future needs.
• Compliance – Follow all legal and industry regulations.
• The plan will:
• Connect network hardware (modem, router, switch).
• Run cables.
• Configure all network hardware and security
• Connect computers and mobile devices.
• Install drivers when necessary like for NAS or printer
• Test network functionality.
• Effective Documentation and Communication: Approval documentation should compile approvals, clearances, and schedules.
• Distribute documentation to relevant stakeholders.
• Brief key personnel on the approved plan, security measures and timeline.

Install and configure hardware

• Install documentation to relevant stakeholders.
• Brief key personnel on the approved plan, security measures and timeline.
• Establishing communication channels in the updates and issues during the installation process.
• Modem Installation:
• Connect the modem to the wall using Telephone wire for ADSL, or coaxial cable.
• Plug modem into a power source.
• Check the indicator lights to ensure stable internet connections.
• Router Installation:
• Connect an Ethernet cable from the modem to the router's WAN port, and use Cat 6 if possible.
• Plug in the router to power.
• Check indicator lights which shows power and internet.
• Connecting and installing the Switch involves connecting with an Ethernet cable from the router to the switch, then plugging in the switch.
• Multiple wired devices will be connected.
• The indicator lights that show data transfer speed. NAS Installation:
• NAS is for shared file storage, connect to network with an Ethernet cable from switch and then electricity.
• Set a static IP for the router to easily access on the network.

Connecting a computer

• Connecting to a desktop computer should be done with an Ethernet cable from switch into the computer.
• Make sure all peripherals and equipment are connected (mouse, keyboard, monitor).

Test Network

• Ensure proper functioning of a network by troubleshooting its hardware, software, and settings.

Steps to Troubleshoot Issues:

• Step 1: Identify the problem—determine what is not working.
• Step 2:Check physical components—verify power, cables, and connections.
• Step 3:Check software settings—examine configurations, IP addresses, and network settings.
• Step 4:Eliminate what's not the issue—rule out common causes.
• Step 5:Find the Exact Cause—Narrow it down using testes and network tracing and tracing.
• Step 6:Fix the issue—Adjust settings, replace parts, or reconfigure as needed.

Test Network methods

• A Ping Test checks if the computer can communicate with the router.
• Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
• In the command prompt, type: ping 192.168.0.1.
• Verify the internet is running at the correct speed.
• Access NAS by checking Shared File Access, and accessing it.
• File Explorer can type the NAS' IP address in the address bar.
• Check connectivity of a printer.
• Perform an Internet Test, by opening www.speedtest.net
• Checking ping, download, and upload speeds.

Ping Test, Types

• Measures the time for data to travel to the nearest Speedtest server and back.
• The server is chosen to give the best and fastest result.
• Shows a lower ping because it's testing a close, optimized connection.

CMD Ping

• Measures the time for data travel to a specific server or device that is chosen.
• The destination could be far away or have more network traffic, so the ping might be higher