What is FTTN?
Fibre to the Node (FTTN) is a connection variant in the field of fibre optic networks. With FTTN, the fibre-optic cable extends to the network operator’s distribution cabinet. From there, data is transmitted to the end customers via copper cable. This technology enables fast internet connections because the fibre optic network is extended to a certain point. Although the transmission speed may be limited by the use of copper cables, FTTN still offers improved performance compared to pure copper lines.
Application area
FTTN is particularly suitable when a full fibre connection to the customer is not feasible either for economic or technical reasons. FTTN enables cost-effective use of the existing infrastructure and provides an interim solution to provide higher bandwidths without having to upgrade the entire network to fibre.
Technical requirements
FTTN requires the fibre network to be extended to the network operator’s distribution cabinet. From there, data is transmitted to the end customers via copper cable. This can be used to bridge distances of several hundred metres. The combination of fibre and copper enables improved performance and fast internet connections.
Advantages of FTTN
- Improved performance compared to copper-only lines
- Cost-efficient use of existing infrastructure
- Intermediate solution for higher bandwidths without full fibre roll-out
Disadvantages of FTTN
- Limited transmission speed due to the use of copper cables from the distribution cabinet
- Limited scalability and potential limitations in terms of future bandwidth requirements
Conditions
The implementation of FTTN requires the extension of the fibre network up to the distribution cabinet of the network operator and the use of copper cables for data transmission to the end customers. Close co-operation between network operators and end customers is necessary to ensure optimum performance and bandwidth for FTTN.
