NBN Jargon Buster
Decoding the terminology used by NBN technicians and ISPs.
Diagram showing the typical NBN connection from the street to your devices.
NTD / NBN Box
Network Termination Device
The physical "gateway" device installed at your property. It’s where the NBN signal from the street enters your home. Depending on your tech type, this might be a wall-mounted box (FTTP) or a standalone modem (HFC/FTTC).
Connection Box
Common User Name for the NTD
This term is often used interchangeably with NTD. If an ISP asks you to "power cycle the connection box," they mean the NBN Co supplied device, not your personal WiFi router.
Router / Gateway
Your WiFi Hub
This is the device you connect to the NTD via an Ethernet cable. It distributes the internet connection to your phones, laptops, and smart TVs via WiFi or wired ports.
Utility Box
The External Connection Point
The grey box mounted on the outside wall of your property. It acts as the "handover point" between the NBN street cabling and the internal wiring that runs to your NBN connection box inside.
IP Address
Internet Protocol Address
A unique numerical label assigned to your device on the network. Think of it as your digital mailing address that tells the internet where to send requested data (like a website or video stream).
CVC / Bandwidth
Connectivity Virtual Circuit
Think of this as the "width" of the pipe your ISP has rented for your neighborhood. If they don't rent a wide enough pipe (CVC), everyone's speeds drop during peak hours when everyone is online at once.
POI
Point of Interconnect
The physical location where your ISP’s network connects to the NBN network. There are 121 POIs across Australia.
MAC Address
Media Access Control
A unique identifier assigned to your specific router. ISPs often use this to "authenticate" your device on their network.